You are correct that Germany has new standards about winter tires. They must be winter or all season (during winter months). Not sure what month they must be changed out, I can ask my neighbor. My 06' X3 has the OEM Scorpions and I have driven it all over Germany, Austria, and Switzerland during the winter snow without any problem.

The problem you run into in Germany is that many times the Autobahns are clear and dry and the side streets will have snow. So if you are like me and drive 115-120mph on the Autobahn, winters tires just won't cut it. Hope it helps.

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- Mike -
2006 X3
Saphire Black / Grey Interior