Skip advert
Advertisement

Code Breaker

We explain the baffling array of information on the sidewall of tyres.

For many drivers, the sidewall of a tyre is a mystery. They may be able to spot the manufacturer’s name and the model, but beyond that, the rest of the information means nothing. Even when they have copied down the size of the rubber to ring round for prices, owners are often in the dark about what the numbers represent.

Advertisement - Article continues below

So here we explain the mass of detail contained on every sidewall, from the cheapest import to the industry’s top names. Our guide will not only help you when it comes to replacing your tyres, but also to check that the ones you’re running are right for your car and in good condition.

This is key if you did not buy the tyres, as their life is not only limited by wear. Age is also a factor; the compounds used deteriorate, and performance tails off as a result.

Any tyre more than five years old should be looked at carefully. How do you know how old yours are? Our walkthrough reveals all.

Up CloseThere's no standard mark for run flat tyres - which can be used for about 50 miles without pressure - so check model name

Also, keep an eye out for the part warn mark; any rubber bought second-hand should be stamped accordingly.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,911 off RRP*Used from £16,700
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £18,725Avg. savings £4,199 off RRP*Used from £15,337
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,513 off RRP*Used from £5,500
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £8,094 off RRP*Used from £13,199
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price
BMW X7 - front

Car Deal of the Day: BMW’s ultimate luxury SUV at an unusually low price

German firm’s flagship SUV could never be called cheap but it is exceptional value at £735 a month – making it our Deal of the Day for Sunday 27 April
News
27 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025