What do the markings on car tyres mean?
When it comes to how to read tyre size, the first five digits of the code are the ones to concentrate on. The first three digits belong together and indicate the width of the tyre (in millimetres). So, in the example, the tyre has an aspect ratio of 55, meaning the profile height is 55% of its total width (107.25mm).
Do TYRE labels matter?
The real issue with tyre labels is that they only reveal a small part of a tyre’s performance. But that tyre will likely be worse in several other areas. The next generation of the label needs to at least include wear. Wet grip and wear are contrasting qualities; it’s difficult to score well in both criteria.
How do TYRE labels work?
The labels currently comprise three pictures which each denote three separate things – fuel economy, wet grip and noise. They are effectively a rating system that lets you know how efficient your tyres are in certain areas, but what repercussions do these different efficiencies have on you, your car and your wallet?
What does ABC mean on tyres?
If a tyre label is ranked ‘A’ for noise, this produces the lowest external noise emissions, whilst if a tyre is labelled ‘B’ and ‘C’ will produce higher levels of external noise. The decibel (dB) will be shown on the tyre label.
What does 91 mean on a tyre?
It indicates the maximum load a tyre can safely carry when driving at the maximum speed permitted. It is absolutely forbidden to use tyres with a lower load index than the one recommended for a particular car model. For example, a tyre with a load index of 91 may be subject to a maximum load of 615 kg.
What does the letter Y mean on tyres?
You can find your tyres’ speed rating on the sidewall of the tyre as shown in the image. Z-rated high-performance tyres are rated for speeds in excess of 149mph. Confusingly, W-rated tyres are rated at a higher speed in excess of 168mph. Y-rated tyres are rated in excess of 186mph.
Are EU TYRE labels accurate?
EU tyre labels don’t show how well a tyre grips in the dry, how good it is cornering in either the wet or dry, how much it contributes to the car’s comfort or how old it is. There are a lot of parameters involved in making a tyre, many of them conflicting.
What is EU tyre label?
EU tyre labelling rules help consumers make an informed purchase decision when they replace their tyres, as the label highlights the performance of the tyre on issues relating to fuel efficiency, safety and noise. New labelling rules, applying from 1 May 2021, are set out under Regulation (EU) 2020/740.
How are tires rated for noise?
The EU rating measures the external noise emissions of the tire in decibels. Since many people are unfamiliar with decibel values, a loudspeaker image with black waves is shown to signify how noisy the tire is. The more waves there are, the louder the tire. Decibel levels are measured on a logarithmic scale.
What does MFS mean on tyres?
Maximum Flange Shield (MFS)* The Dunlop MFS (Maximum Flange Shield) system is a rim flange protection system. A profile of rubber runs around the circumference of the tyre, creating a buffer zone for the rim.
What does FRT mean on a tyre?
Free Rolling Tyre
The term FRT (Free Rolling Tyre) is defined in ECE Regulation 54, paragraph 3.1. 15. The inscription “FRT” concerns tyres designed specifically for trailer axles (and axles of motor vehicles other than front steering and drive axles).
When do the new tyre labels come out?
On 1 May 2021, motorists will benefit from the introduction of a new label and innovative system to help them understand how well tyres perform, especially for fuel efficiency and grip in the wet.
What do you need to know about European tire labels?
All tires sold in the European Union are subject to mandatory tire labeling. The EU Tire Label provides clear information on the environmental and safety characteristics of a tire based on three central criteria; fuel efficiency, wet braking, and noise levels.
Why is it important to have tyre labelling?
Stuart Jackson, TyreSafe Chair, said: “The key point of tyre labelling is to help those choosing a tyre to make an informed decision. There is concern that owners typically only consider cost and don’t appreciate there may be tyres that are more suitable and offer better value but perhaps at a higher price.
How is noise measured on an EU tyre?
The EU tyre label only measures the external rolling noise of the tyre which is not related to the in-cabin noise that the driver will experience. How does the 2021 label differ from the previous EU labels?