Tyre Markings

Tyre Markings

Tyre Markings

Tyres markings can be found on the side wall of the tyre. These abbreviated markings can help you choose which tyres might be better suited for your vehicle.

Load index Markings 

Load index is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tyre can carry at the speed indicated by its speed symbol under service conditions specified by the tyre manufacturer. 

Load index, speed symbol example: 91H 

91 = Load index- (maximum load per tyre = 615kg) 

H = Speed symbol – (maximum speed 210 km/h or approximately 131mph) 

The load index (or two load indices in the case of single/dual fitments) and speed symbol are also referred to as the Service Description. 

Extra Load or XL: This tyre has a higher load rating than would normally apply to this size. 

Reinforced or Reinf: This tyre has a higher load rating than would normally apply to this size 

TYRE Markings: Speed, Load, Date and other markings. 

Speed Symbols 

Most tyres have codes marked on them, which correspond to their load carrying and maximum speed capabilities. The speed symbol indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can carry the load corresponding with its load index. 

• Tyres marked ‘VR’ within the size designation are designed for speeds in excess of 131 mph. 

• Tyres marked ‘ZR’ within the size designation are designed for speeds in excess of 149 mph. 

• Tyres marked ‘V’ in conjunction with a load index, e.g. 93V are suitable for speeds in excess of 131 mph & up to 149 mph. 

(The load index given is for a speed of 131 mph and the load must be reduced by 3% for every increment of 6 mph up to 149 mph.) 

• Tyres marked ‘W’ in conjunction with a load index e.g. 83W, are suitable for speeds in excess of 149 mph & up to 168 mph. 

(The load index given is for a speed of 149 mph and the load must be reduced by 5% for every increment of 6 mph up to 168 mph.) 

NB: tyres with a ‘W’ speed symbol may incorporate ‘ZR’ in the size marking. 

• Tyres marked ‘Y’ in conjunction with a load index, e.g. 83Y, are suitable for speeds in excess of 168 mph & up to 186 mph. 

(The load index given is for a speed of 168 mph and the load must be reduced by 5% for every increment of 6 mph up to 186 mph.) 

• Where the service description is placed within brackets e.g. (95Y), the tyre is suitable for speeds over 186 mph. 

Load index Markings 

Load index is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tyre can carry at the speed indicated by its speed symbol under service conditions specified by the tyre manufacturer. 

Load index, speed symbol example: 91H 

91 = Load index- (maximum load per tyre = 615kg) 

H = Speed symbol – (maximum speed 210 km/h or approximately 131mph) 

The load index (or two load indices in the case of single/dual fitments) and speed symbol are also referred to as the Service Description. 

Extra Load or XL: This tyre has a higher load rating than would normally apply to this size. 

Reinforced or Reinf: This tyre has a higher load rating than would normally apply to this size 

Date Codes 

Find the week and year your tyres were manufactured. For example, ‘0223’ would mean the tyres were made in January 2023. 

You can expect...

  • Honest jargon-free advice

  • Trusted source of quality products

  • Reliable and personal service 

  • Trained and skilled technicians

  • Safety in mind

Our Brands