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Looking for advice on choosing the correct size tyre for your vehicle?

The information on this page is designed to help you identify what tyre size you need, along with additional advice to help you work out what type of tyre is best suited to your vehicle and driving style.

Read on to determine your tyre size by decoding the markings on the sidewall of your current tyres. Understanding these numbers is essential for maintaining your vehicle's safety and peak performance. Eliminate uncertainty by also checking our tyre labelling and load rating advice. Whether you're new to driving or an experienced motorist, our comprehensive guide will give you the confidence to choose the correct tyres every time you shop.

Tyre Size Info

Tyre Size Info

Prior to purchasing a new tyre, you need to check what size your current one is.

You don t need to carry out any measurements yourself, the tyre size should be displayed around the tyres sidewall.

The diagram on the right gives you an example of how the measurements should appear. In this instance, it will be in succession 205/55 R16 91V, this means:

  • 1.205 = width (mm)
  • 2.55 = profile (mm)
  • 3.R16 = rim diameter (inches)
  • 4.91 = maximum carrying load
  • 5.V = speed rating

The above measurements can be entered into our tyre finder so you can find the most suitable one for your vehicle.

Find your tyre size


Tyre Labelling

Since the 1st July 2012, European regulations state that it s a legal requirement in the EU for tyres to be labelled with performance information in a graded diagram.

It aims to help you understand how different tyres can impact your vehicle, safety and driving style. Fuel economy, braking in wet conditions and external noise categorises the performance grading.

You will find that fuel economy performance is graded A to G which is the same as household appliances. A is the highest grade and G is the lowest. As tyres contribute towards the amount of fuel that your vehicle consumes, it means that you could save around 80 litres of fuel over their lifetime, resulting in a significant cash saving.

Like fuel economy performance, braking performance is graded from A to G too. So, the lower the grade, the longer the braking difference. This means that lower grades are much better and safer as there is a significant different between each grade on average one or two car lengths.

The final performance label gives a breakdown of the external noise that will come from the tyre whilst you re driving. It s measured by decibels and is illustrated by black sound waves. There are three levels which are:

  • One black wave the noise level is low
  • Two black waves the noise level is average
  • Three black waves the noise level is higher than what is permitted in the EU

All of the information above shows the sheer importance of tyre labelling and how it can significantly impact your safety and other motorists around you.

Fuel, Wet and Noise Fuel, Wet and Noise EU

Load Rating

On the tyre's sidewall, the load rating is typically positioned between the diameter measurement and the speed rating.

This figure indicates the maximum weight each tyre can safely support when inflated to its recommended pressure. It refers to carrying capacity, not the physical weight of the tyre itself. You can determine your tyre's exact load limit by looking at our load rating chart below.

Load Index KG
50 190
51 195
52 200
53 206
54 212
55 218
56 224
57 230
58 236
59 243
60 250
61 257
62 265
63 272
64 280
Load Index KG
65 290
66 300
67 307
68 315
69 325
70 335
71 345
72 355
73 365
74 375
75 387
76 400
77 412
78 425
79 437
Load Index KG
80 450
81 462
82 475
83 487
84 500
85 515
86 530
87 545
88 560
89 580
90 600
91 615
92 630
93 650
94 670
Load Index KG
95 690
96 710
97 730
98 750
99 775
100 800
101 825
102 850
103 875
104 900
105 925
106 950
107 975
108 1000
109 1030
Load Index KG
110 1060
111 1090
112 1120
113 1150
114 1180
115 1215
116 1250
117 1285
118 1320
119 1360
120 1400
121 1450
122 1500
123 1550
124 1600

Speed rating

The final letter on the tyre code shows the highest speed at which the tyre can operate safely when fitted to a vehicle. You can find a detailed breakdown in our speed rating table.

This rating is determined through controlled tests, where the tyre is run at an initial speed of 6.2 mph, then increased in 10-minute intervals until the designated maximum safe speed is reached.

Why is speed rating so important?

Using tyres with a lower speed rating than required could invalidate your car insurance. It’s essential to check the speed rating before purchasing new tyres to ensure they meet your vehicle’s specifications.

Speed Symbol Max Speed (MPH) Max Speed (KM/H)
M 81 130
P 93 150
Q 99 160
R 106 170
S 112 180
T 118 190
Speed Symbol Max Speed (MPH) Max Speed (KM/H)
H 130 210
V 150 240
W 169 270
Y 187 300
ZR Over 150 Over 240

Frequently Asked Questions


Fitting incorrect tyre sizes can cause several problems, such as incorrect speedometer readings, compromised handling, faster wear on suspension parts, and possible clutch damage. To avoid these issues, it's best to stick to tyres with a diameter no more than 3% different from the vehicle's original specifications.

Front tyres typically need replacing after about 20,000 miles, while rear tyres often last longer. If you drive an average of 10,000 miles annually, this equates to a tyre change roughly every two years. However, tyre longevity can vary depending on driving habits and whether you've consistently maintained the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle and usual load. As a rule of thumb, replace tyres once tread depth drops below 2mm or if they’re over five years old.

Exceeding a vehicle’s load capacity can seriously affect its safety, performance, and lead to costly damage. Common consequences include poor handling, longer braking distances, and higher fuel usage. Overloaded vehicles also face a greater risk of tyre blowouts, suspension failure, and engine overheating. Beyond mechanical issues, driving an overloaded vehicle can result in legal penalties, including fines or disqualification from driving.

Overinflated tyres can cause a range of issues, such as decreased grip on the road, uneven tread wear, a higher chance of blowouts, and a bumpier ride. They may also reduce fuel efficiency and lengthen braking distances, compromising both comfort and safety.

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