Volkswagen ID.3: Wheels, tyres. axle align. Information on tyres

Volkswagen ID.3 (E11, E12) 2020-2024 Service Manual / Running gear / Wheels and Tyres Guide – General Information / Wheels, tyres. axle align. Information on tyres

Identification markings on the tyre sidewall
Tyre dimension
Load rating code/load index (LI)
Speed rating code
EU tyre label, summary
EU tyre label, objectives
EU tyre label, categories
Cross section of a radial belted tyre
Run-flat tyres, structure and identification of a SST tyre
Run-flat tyres, seal inside technology
Run-flat tyres - general information
Run-flat tyres, retrofitting/requirements when using run-flat tyres
Reinforced and Extra Load (XL) tyres
M+S tyres
Winter tyres with speed symbol V
All-season tyres
Optimised rolling resistance tyres
Tyre ageing
Tyres with flange protection
Tyre sizes for vehicles with all-wheel drive
Increase in temperature due to insufficient tyre pressure

Identification markings on the tyre sidewall

Note

The new Volkswagen Genuine + tyres are introduced for the launch of the ID.3, including all subsequent electric vehicles. They are also introduced successively for all petrol and diesel vehicles. They were developed with leading tyre manufacturers especially for our Volkswagen models and are subject to over 50 test criteria. Conclusion: Tyres that exhibit consonance with the individual properties of the vehicle model and deliver the entire performance onto the road. Volkswagen Genuine + tyres can be identified by a plus symbol as a new OE marking on the sidewall of the tyre.

Example: Continental ContiPremiumContact 2

1 - Size code

❏ e.g. 205/55 R 16 → Anchor

2 - Position of TWIs (Tread Wear Indicators)

3 - Manufacturer (trade name)

❏ e.g. Continental

4 - Design

❏ Radial - radial cord direction in carcass

❏ Tubeless - code for tubeless tyres

5 - Load capacity index / speed rating

❏ e.g. 91 → Anchor

❏ e.g. H → Anchor

6 - Specified direction of rotation/installation for tyre

7 - Maximum permissible load

❏ Data for North America

8 - Maximum permissible tyre pressure

❏ Data for North America

9 - Number of plies in the centre of the tread and in the sidewalls as well as information about the material

10 - E number = Approval number

❏ Tyre fulfils European guidelines

11 - Manufacturer code / date of manufacture

❏ Identification number for manufacturer's plant, tyre size and tyre model

❏ Tyre ageing / date of manufacture → Chapter

12 - DOT - Department of Transportation

❏ Tyre fulfils standards of the Department of Transportation of the United States of America

13 - Identifier for Brazil, INMETRO

14 - Identifier for China, CCC

15 - Country of origin

❏ e.g. manufactured in Germany (Made in Germany)

16 - Safety notes for use or fitting of tyre

17 - Relative expected service life - abrasion resistance

❏ based on a US standard test

18 - Rating of wet-braking traction, A, B or C

❏ According to a US test

19 - Rating of temperature resistance, A, B or C

❏ According to a US test

20 - Identifying tyres with run-flat properties

❏ e.g. self-supporting run-flat

❏ Identifying tyres with run-flat properties → Chapter

21 - Tread pattern

❏ e.g. ContiPremiumContact

Tyre dimension

Explanation of tyre dimensionsTyreSpeed1234567Summer tyresto 240 km/h19565R1591V-M+S tyresto 160 km/h19565R1591QM + SM+S tyresto 190 km/h19565R1591TM + SHigh-speed tyresfaster than 240 km/h22550ZR1691--

1 - Tyre width

2 - Aspect ratio in %

3 - Code for tyre construction “R” indicates radial

4 - Rim diameter designation

5 - Load rating code/load index (LI)

6 - Speed rating code

7 - Winter tyre/code for all-season tyre

Load rating code/load index (LI)

The load rating can be found on the sidewall of the tyre. It provides information about the maximum load that the tyre can bear.

The load rating is included in the size designation of the tyre (e.g. 195/65 R 15 91T). It is indicated on the tyre as a code according to ETRTO. The following table shows the load rating codes with the corresponding load capacity of the tyres.Load rating codeMaximum load of tyre in kg753877842579437804508146282475834878450085515865308754588560895809060091615926309365094670956909671097730987509977510080010182510285010387510490011010601121120

Speed rating code

Speed rating code/maximum speedSpeed rating codeMaximum speed in km/hL120M130N140P150Q160R170S180T190U200H210V240ZRabove 240W270Y300

Winter tyres with speed symbol “V” → Chapter

EU tyre label, summary

Tyre manufactures must mark their tyres according to EU regulation (EC) No. 1222/2009 (labelling of tyres) as of November 1st 2012.

The labelling of tyres regulation contains the requirements reference markings and representation of information for rolling resistance (fuel efficiency), wet grip and external rolling noise on a standard and approved EU label. The objective is to increase safety and economic and environmental efficiency of road transport by promoting fuel efficient and safe tyres with low noise levels.

The new EU tyre label contains specified data in seven categories from A to G.

There are three different categories:

1 - Rolling resistance (fuel efficiency)

❏ Explanations → Anchor

2 - Wet grip

❏ Explanations → Anchor

3 - Noise emissions

❏ Explanations → Anchor

EU tyre label, objectives

♦ Reducing fuel consumption

♦ Increasing road safety

♦ Reducing traffic noise

The EU tyre label provides the end-user with important information on the properties of the tyre. It does not illustrate, however, all decisive safety criteria.

♦ The explanation of other properties of the tyre may influence the decision to purchase.

♦ The customer should be advised of the limited information on the label of tyre properties, such as no information concerning winter properties for winter tyres.

♦ Tyre tests are another source of information for specialist dealers and end-users.

In the tyres tests other leading factors are also tested, which should be taken into account:

♦ Aquaplaning properties

♦ Driving stability

♦ Steering precision

♦ Service life

♦ Braking properties

♦ Behaviour in wintry conditions

EU tyre label, categories

Rolling resistance → Anchor

Wet grip → Anchor

Noise emissions → Anchor

Rolling resistance

Rolling resistance:

♦ Defined as, energy consumed by the tyre in respect of the distance travelled.

♦ Equates to the energy lost per defined unit of distance travelled.

♦ The energy form can be described as the quotient of Newton meter (Nm) and distance travelled in meter (m). This then provides a rolling resistance as a form of force in Newtons (N).

The rolling resistance of a tyre is then described by the coefficient of rolling resistance (also known as rolling resistance coefficient) cR:

cR =

♦ cR - coefficient of rolling resistance

♦ FR - force of rolling resistance

♦ Z - weight of vehicle (sum of all wheel loads)

Objective

♦ Reduction of rolling resistance

♦ Reduction of fuel and CO2

Evaluation

♦ Structured in fuel efficiency categories from A to G

♦ Category D is not used

Note

♦ The fuel efficiency category is listed in EU regulation (EC) No. 1222/2009, the tyre is then allocated to the respective category.

♦ The rolling resistance is established by the tyre manufacture via prescribed tests.

♦ The lower the rolling resistance, the lower the fuel consumption.

A - Lowest rolling resistance = lowest fuel consumption

B - + 1.0 l / 100 km, corresponds to higher consumption relative to A of + 1.0 l / 100 km

C - + 1.2 l / 100 km, corresponds to higher consumption relative to A of + 2.2 l / 100 km

E - + 1.4 l / 100 km, corresponds to higher consumption relative to A of + 3.6 l / 100 km

F - + 1.5 l / 100 km, corresponds to higher consumption relative to A of + 5.1 l / 100 km

G - + 1.5 l / 100 km, corresponds to higher consumption relative to A of + 6.6 l / 100 km

Wet grip

Definition

The wet grip index G must be established for the wet grip. The wet grip index G is established using a deceleration test (distance required to decelerate from 80 km/h to 20 km/h) using a standardised vehicle on a wet slippery surface. The test uses a predefined standard reference test tyre (SRTT), with which the wet grip index G can be calculated. The calculation uses the mean fully developed deceleration (mfdd) produced.

The mean fully developed deceleration (mfdd) is calculated as follows:

mfdd =

231.48

S - the measured braking distance in metres between 80 km/h and 20 km/h

The wet grip index G is calculated as follows:

G =

mfdd of tyre to be checked

mfdd of standard reference test tyre

mfdd - mean fully developed deceleration

Objective

♦ Good wet grip of tyre

♦ Greatly reduced bake distance

Evaluation

♦ Structured in wet grip categories from A to G

♦ Categories D and G are not used

Note

♦ The wet grip category is listed in EU regulation (EC) No. 1222/2009, the tyre is then allocated to the respective category.

♦ The lower the wet grip index, the shorter the braking distance.

A - Lowest wet grip index = shortest braking distance

B - 3 m longer braking distance in comparison with category A

C - 7 m longer braking distance in comparison with category A

E - 12 m longer braking distance in comparison with category A

F - 18 m longer braking distance in comparison with category A

1 - The braking distance between categories A and F can be more than 18 m when undertaking an emergency stop at 80 km/h.

Noise emissions

Objective

♦ Reduction of pass-by noise

♦ Reducing noise emissions

Evaluation

♦ Measured on outside of vehicle only

♦ Divided into three categories

♦ Three black arcs indicate the worst performance. The tyres produce a rolling noise that lies below the current limit according to EU regulation 2001/43/EG. The limit lies above the limit that has been set for from 2016 according to regulation (EG) No. 661/2009.

♦ Two black arcs: The tyre noise limit lies below the limit that has been set for from 2016 according to regulation (EG) No. 661/2009.

♦ One black arc: The tyre noise limit lies below the limit that has been set for from 2016 according to regulation (EG) No. 661/2009, by at least three decibels.

Note

♦ Reducing the noise level from two arcs to one arc equates to 3 dB, which halves the noise level.

♦ Note, the external rolling noise of the tyre does not always correspond with the noise in the vehicle interior.

Cross section of a radial belted tyre

1 - Tread block

2 - Tread groove

3 - Tread

4 - Nylon ply

5 - Belt layers

❏ Usually made of steel

6 - Bead core

❏ Consists of steel wires vulcanised into rubber.

❏ Ensures secure seating of the tyre on the rim.

7 - Bead filler

8 - Rim flange protection

❏ Protects the rim and tyre from abrasion from, for example, contact with the kerb

❏ Tyres with Maximum Flange Shield (or rim protector bar) are marked with the abbreviation MFS.

The nylon ply -4-, belt layers -5-, bead cores -6- and bead filler -7- form the carcass. The carcass is the “load-bearing structure” of the tyre.

Run-flat tyres, structure and identification of a SST tyre

Removing and fitting run-flat tyres → Chapter.

If run-flat tyres are used, a Tyre Pressure Monitor display must be fitted.

Damage to the tyre and subsequent pressure loss cannot be detected with the naked eye.

SST tyres are identified by a specific sign (RSC = Runflat System Component) on the sidewall.

The identification for run-flat tyres on the sidewall may differ depending on the manufacturer.

Self- supporting tyres are tyre systems with run-flat capabilities in the case of pressure loss. In case of a deflated tyre, the driver can still drive to the next workshop whereas some restrictions must be adhered to → Owner's manual.

Advantage

In case of a complete pressure loss, the SST tyres allow for moderate driving with a maximum speed of 80 km/h and over a maximum distance of 50 km.

The distance that can be travelled during a breakdown depends on the driving style, the vehicle speed, the road condition, the weather conditions, the condition of the tyres and the tyre load.

In the event of complete pressure loss, it is not necessary to change the wheel immediately if SST tyres are fitted (e.g. no wheel change in poorly visible and hazardous road sections).

The brakes, the steering system and the drive train feel similar, even after complete pressure loss from the tyre.

If SST tyres are used, no spare wheel is required. This allows for more space and a lower weight in favour of the customer.

Installing

1 - Beading with beading core

2 - Side wall

3 - Reinforcement for side panel

4 - Wheel rim with extended hump (EH2) on both sides - prerequisite when using tyres with run-flat properties

Detailed information on the technology

Standard tyres without run-flat capabilities

– -I- Standard tyres with regular tyre pressure

– -II- Deflated standard tyre

– When a standard tyre deflates, the side walls are pressed together by the wheel rims. The rubber material heats up extremely and comes off the tyre quickly when the tyre is deflated.

SST tyres with reinforced sidewall

The SST technology is based on self-supporting reinforced sidewalls.

– -I- SST tyre with air

– -II- SST tyre without air

– Extra thick sidewalls -A- support the deflated tyre on a standard wheel rim, and the vehicle remains operable. A special rubber compound reinforces the tyre and is capable of carrying the vehicle in an emergency.

The reinforced sidewalls do not become pinched between the road and the wheel rim if the tyre is deflated.

Differences between H2 wheel rims and EH2 wheel rims with extended hump

♦ In the event of pressure loss, the extended hump of wheel rim EH2 prevents the SST tyre from becoming detached from the wheel rim.

♦ The extended hump wheel rim EH2 is higher relative to the centre of the wheel.

Note

There is a smaller clearance to the brake.

Run-flat tyres, seal inside technology

♦ Seal tyres are not run-flat tyres, they are classified as regular tyres from a legal perspective. The combination of seal tyres and regular tyres is permitted.

♦ The vehicles are equipped with self-sealing tyres as an option.

♦ This technology, referred to as seal inside technology, is a system that has been developed to allow the car to continue to be driven even if a nail or screw has penetrated the tyre: if screws or nails penetrate the tyre, a protective layer on the inside of the tyre tread immediately seals the resulting holes.

♦ This means no air can escape. The sealing function is effective for almost all air leaks induced by objects up to 5 millimetres in diameter.

Explanation for mobility tyres

♦ The seal inside technology comprises a sealing compound which is applied during production by the tyre manufacturer as a preventative measure.

♦ The seal inside technology comprises a self-adhesive, viscous sealing compound that is applied in an even coat from shoulder to shoulder on the inside of the tread.

♦ The sealing compound represents an integral component of the mobility tyre.

♦ A mobility tyre can be identified by a special logo on the outside of the sidewall.

♦ Example: sidewall of a Continental tyre

Note

The sealing compound is not intended as a permanent tyre repair following a puncture.

♦ If a foreign body with a diameter up to 5 mm punctures the running surface of a mobility tyre, the function of the sealing compound is to surround the object and to prevent any possible air loss by effecting an almost immediate seal.

♦ The sealing compound is designed to seal the majority of puncture types caused by foreign bodies up to 5 mm in diameter.

♦ The seal inside technology significantly reduces the frequency of flat tyres, but it is not intended to allow the tyre to be operated with reduced pressure or when flat (without air).

♦ In all other respects, mobility tyres display the same properties as tyres without the seal inside technology.

Handling mobility tyres

♦ When handling mobility tyres, take particular care to maintain cleanliness during work and also when storing tyres.

♦ The sealing compound on the inside of the running surface of the tyre is not protected and is therefore very susceptible to any type of contamination.

♦ We recommend storing each tyre individually in a sufficiently large plastic bag or similar.

♦ As with any other tyre, mobility tyres should be regularly checked for signs of cuts, penetrations and loss of inflation pressure.

♦ This inspection should be conducted at least once or twice a month, and always prior to each long trip.

♦ Penetrations or damage that is not attended to in good time can lead to a loss of inflation pressure and/or failure of the tyre.

♦ Mobility tyres with damage by cuts and/or penetrations must be inspected immediately.

♦ It is necessary to decide whether the tyre must be taken out of use and scrapped.

♦ Removing and installing the mobility tyre involves the same procedure as a normal tyre.

Run-flat tyres - general information

Tyres with run-flat properties have reinforced side walls when comparing them with normal tyres. This reduces the slippage of the side walls and prevents the tyre flanks sticking when the tyres are run deflated. This ensures the vehicle remains controllable and the vehicle has almost normal driving characteristics. This eliminates the necessity to fit the spare wheel in dangerous conditions e.g. hard shoulder of a motorway or in bad weather conditions.

In the event of a flat tyre, the vehicle can be driven to the next workshop (about 50 km or 30 miles) at a suitable speed (max. 80 km/h or 50 mph) and with a driving style suitable for the conditions, see → Owner's manual.

However, the driver is ultimately responsibility for determining whether after checking the affected tyre/tyres the vehicle is safe to drive.

-I- Tyres with normal air pressure

1 - Tyres with run-flat properties (reinforced side walls -red-)

2 - Normal tyres

-II- Deflated tyre

When a normal tyre -2- deflates, the side walls are pressed against the wheel rims. The side walls heat up extremely or stick and are therefore destroyed when the tyre is deflated.

Tyres with run-flat properties -1- are supported on the reinforced side walls (-red-). A special tyre mixture and the reduced flexing of the reinforced side walls reduces the heat created when the tyre is run and the vehicle remains controllable.

Note

Please note the special requirements when using tyres with run-flat properties → Chapter.

Run-flat tyres, retrofitting/requirements when using run-flat tyres

Note

Retrofitting run-flat tyres to vehicles may only be undertaken if the tyres are fitted as standard or they are available as an option.

These tyres may only be used on vehicles with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System as a pressure loss in the tyres is not always visible. This system warns the driver when an inflation pressure is less than a certain inflation pressure.

Permitted are:

Direct measuring systems → Rep. gr.44; Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

Indirect measuring systems → Rep. gr.44; Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

Tyres with run-flat properties may only be fitted on disc-type wheels with raised double hump (Extended Hump - EH2) → Chapter.

Adhere to the special assembly instructions → Chapter.

A mixed installation with standard tyres is not permitted, even on same axle.

Only in exceptional circumstances may a standard tyre be fitted e.g. for a short period or a limited distance. The special run-flat characteristics are lost, the driver must always be informed.

Please observe the recommended tyre makes → Rep. gr.44.

Reinforced and Extra Load (XL) tyres

Some tyre manufacturers have for some time replaced the designation “Reinforced” with the designation “Extra Load”. This designation has long been standard in non-European countries. Technically, there is no difference between them.

Some tyre manufacturers also use the designation “XL” for Extra Load tyres.

Tyres with the designation “Reinforced” or “Extra Load (XL)” are of equal quality.

V winter tyres marked XL have a higher load capacity than V winter tyres without this code.

XL V winter tyres allow a higher speed, but this does not mean that the top speed of a V tyre is 240 km/h for every vehicle.

The same conditions apply to these tyres as to V winter tyres without a special code!

M+S tyres

M+S symbol

On an “M+S tyre” (mud and snow tyre), the tread profile, tread composition or construction are designed so that the handling characteristics are improved on snow as compared with a normal tyre - especially when pulling away or stabilisation of the vehicle movements.

The winter properties of tyres marked with “M+S” are neither defined nor verified by measurements.

Snowflake symbol

The “snowflake” symbol (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake Symbol) indicates a winter tyre according to the industrial standard based on which winter tyres are defined in the USA.

On snow, icy roads, and at low temperatures in general, these tyres are highly efficient regarding safety and control, and they exceed the winter properties of tyres that are solely marked with “M+S”.

M+S marking for 4x4/SUV tyres

Some vehicles are equipped with tyres which have the symbol “M+S” on the outer tyre wall. The reason is, these models were first available on the North American market where all-season tyres with the symbol “M+S” are common. The marking “M+S” is officially defined in a EU Directive as the following: “A tyre where the tyre tread and structure are designed for improved properties in snow as opposed to a normal tyre (translation, not from EU regulation)”. The performance of “M+S” marked tyres are therefore not defined nor tested. The snow performance of winter tyres in North America is specified by the “Snowflake on the Mountain symbol”. Only tyres that fulfil or exceed these requirements may carry the “Snowflake on the Mountain symbol”.

Use of winter tyres

As of 01.05.2006, a change to the German road traffic regulations (StVO) came into force which caused the following supplement to be made: "The equipment in motor vehicles has to be adapted to the weather conditions. In particular, this includes suitable tyres and anti-freeze protection in the window washer system.

Please point out to customers that, since May 1st 2006, they are legally obliged to adapt their vehicle's equipment, particularly the tyres, to winter weather conditions.

For driving in winter, we recommend that the vehicle be equipped with winter tyres in the sizes recommended in the certificate statements.

As a basic rule:

For driving in winter, we recommend that the vehicle be equipped with winter tyres in the sizes recommended by the Wheels and Tyres Guide.

The handling characteristics may be affected by the use of winter tyres and the possible change in the dimensions of the wheel and tyre. Therefore, when using winter tyres, you must adapt your speed to the changed handling characteristics and to the road conditions.

To achieve the best possible handling, winter tyres must be fitted on all wheels.

If the vehicle is equipped with rims other than the factory-fitted rims, you must take the following into consideration when you fit winter tyres:

♦ Wheels and wheel bolts are matched.

♦ Whenever the wheels are changed, corresponding wheel bolts of the correct length and with the correctly shaped shoulders must be used → Anchor. The secure fit of the wheels and the functioning of the brakes depends this.

♦ The suitability of winter tyres with less than 4…5 mm tread depth for winter operation is limited.

♦ Some countries require winter tyres to have a tread depth of at least 4 mm.

♦ The special “winter properties” of these tyres decline with age, regardless of how much they are used.

Explanations regarding shapes of the shoulders

There are two different versions of lug seats, the spherical seat and the conical seat.

The spherical seat is the curved surface of a section of a sphere -arrow A-. This type of lug seat is sometimes used for Genuine wheel rims.

The conical seat is the flat surface of a section of a cone -arrow B-. This form of lug seat is sometimes used for wheel rims of the accessories trade.

I - Wheel bolts with spherical shoulder

II - Wheel bolts with conical shoulder

Vehicles with tyre pressure control

On vehicles with tyre pressure control, the tyre inflation pressure has to be resaved or matched when changing over between summer and winter tyres and visa verse → Owner's manual for relevant model.

Registration regulations in the Federal Republic of Germany

Only when winter tyres are in use may the top speed that a vehicle can achieve be greater than the maximum speed specified by the speed symbol of the tyre.

In this case, a label stating the following must be attached:

Important! Winter tyres!Maximum speed … km/h

Note

This label must be clearly visible to the driver!

Winter tyres with speed symbol V

Table → Anchor

The tyre industry now supplies winter tyres with speed symbol "V". But only under certain conditions may these tyres be used up to the maximum permitted speed vmax = 240 km/h.

Vehicles with V tyres

Vehicles requiring V tyres according to the vehicle's title document may be driven at speeds of up to “v”max = 240 km/h without any restrictions using winter tyres with speed symbol V.

Vehicles with W, Y or ZR tyres:

Under certain circumstances, vehicles requiring W, Y or ZR tyres according to the vehicle's title document may not be driven at speeds of “v”max = 240 km/h.

Why?

V summer tyres and V winter tyres without special identification have 100 % of their maximum load capacity (as specified by their load index “LI”) only up to speeds of 210 km/h.

Travelling at over 210 km/h is possible with V winter tyres only if the maximum load of the tyres is not exceeded. The load capacity of the tyres decreases as the speed increases.

Some vehicles have such a high maximum gross axle weight rating and maximum achievable speed that the load capacity of the V tyres is not sufficient for speeds of up to 240 km/h.

Example: tyre 205/55 R 16 91V

The load index (LI) 91 certifies that this tyre has a load capacity of 615 kg per tyre at up to 210 km/h.

At a speed of 240 km/h, this tyre can carry a load of only 560 kg, i.e. the axle load may not exceed 1120 kg.

The vehicle has a maximum axle load of 1150 kg and a maximum speed of 232 km/h. This vehicle has a maximum speed of 230 km/h with V winter tyres.

This applies to all V winter tyres without special markings.

Winter tyres with the designation Extra Load XL → Chapter

Registration regulations in the Federal Republic of Germany

Only when winter tyres are in use may the top speed that a vehicle can achieve be greater than the maximum speed specified by the speed symbol of the tyre.

In this case, a label stating the following must be attached at a location which is clearly visible to the driver:

Important! Winter tyres!Maximum speed … km/h

All-season tyres

All-season tyres are also called all-weather tyres. All-season tyres can be used in summer as well as in winter.

They constitute a kind of compromise between properties that are required under different weather conditions. The properties of all-season tyres do not meet all the requirements that tyres for defined seasons do.

For example, high-quality winter tyres are more efficient when you need to drive on snow and ice. Summer tyres have, for example, better grip in the wet (not in case of temperatures under approx. 7°C) and shorter braking distances at summer temperatures.

All-season tyres are marked with the -M+S- symbol. All-season tyres with very good winter properties have a snowflake symbol in addition.

Manufacturer’s names such as “Allweather” or “All Season” as well as special meteorological signs (snowflake, leaf, sun and raindrops) on the sidewall refer to year-round suitability.

Optimised rolling resistance tyres

Tyre label → Chapter.

New reduced rolling resistance tyres can have a significantly lower tread depth when compared to new conventional tyres (tread depth approx. 7.5 mm). Tread depths between 5 and 6 mm are common.

For approval, a minimum mileage must be achieved on the VW wear test track until the tread wear limit of 1.6 mm is reached.

The minimum requirements for reduced rolling resistance tyres and non-reduced rolling resistance tyres on the wear test track are identical.

These tyres are more eco-friendly than conventional tyres due to their lower abrasion per km. The reduced rolling resistance also ensures a high fuel efficiency or higher electric range.

The tyres approved by the manufacturer have a reduced rolling resistance while at the same time featuring the state-of-the-art technology in terms of all other safety-critical properties and characteristics of importance to the customer.

Note

Of course, the tyre consumption and range per full tank/full charge depend significantly on the driving profile.

The corresponding recommended tyre products can be found in the → Electronic parts catalogue(ETKA).

Tyre ageing

♦ Even visually flawless, new or barely used tyres with sufficient tread depth may show significant reduction of wet properties and winter suitability due only to ageing.

♦ Tyre tests show that continuous improvements, the use of new rubber compounds and modern raw materials, in conjunction with the optimisation of tread design and geometry, have resulted in steady improvement in tyres.

♦ Only tyres with state-of-the-art technology meet the requirements of modern and highly developed vehicles and the constantly growing demand from the customer for economical tyres offering maximum possible safety, driving dynamics and comfort.

♦ Tyres age as a result of physical and chemical processes, which can impair the function of the tyres.

♦ Older tyres may develop hairline cracks as a result of ageing.

♦ When tyres are in regular use, the constant flexing activates softeners in the rubber, preventing hardening and the development of cracks.

♦ It is therefore important to take into account not only the tread depth, but also the age of spare tyres, stored tyres and tyres which are not permanently in use.

♦ The tyre age can be determined from the DOT designation, which includes, among other things, the production date of the tyre.

Example of a DOT number to 31.12.1999

DOT……509< Stands for 199_ Last digit is production year Week

In this example, the production date is the 50th week of 1999.

Example of a DOT number from 01.01.2000

DOT……0100 Last 2 digits is production year Week

In this example, the production date is the 1st week of 2000.

Note

♦ The original properties of summer and winter tyres are affected by the ageing process. Winter tyres, in particular, begin to lose their grip.

♦ Observe the applicable country specific specifications / legislation regarding tyre replacement.

♦ When new tyres are fitted, the spare tyre may also be used if it is in flawless condition. The age of the tyre has a great influence on the high-speed capability of the tyre. It is possible to combine a spare tyre which is several years old with new tyres; however, this can have an adverse influence on car handling.

♦ Tyres are constantly being further developed, which can lead, for example, to slight changes in the rubber compound, even if the tyres are of the same make, size and tread pattern.

Vehicles with front-wheel drive:

Note

For reasons of safety, tyres of the same make and with the same tread pattern should be mounted on one axle.

Vehicles with all-wheel drive:

Note

Vehicles with four-wheel drive must always be equipped with four wheels with tyres of the same size, construction, tread pattern and make.

Renewing tyres

Tyres must always be renewed when:

● the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm is reached

● there is visible mechanical damage

● there are signs of age-related damage, e.g. cracks or discolouration

Tyres with flange protection

The tyre industry produces tyres with flange protection for alloy wheels. The flange protection is intended to protect alloy wheels from damage due to contact with kerbs.

The combination of tyres with flange protection, steel wheels and a full-size hub cap can lead to the loss of the hub cap during operation. The flexing of the tyre separates the hub cap from its seat.

NOTICE

Tyre with flange protection fitted to steel rim.

Wheel trim may become detached from wheel.

– Do not fit tyres with flange protection to steel rims.

The figure shows a prohibited combination of steel rim, full-size hub cap and a tyre with flange protection.

A - Flange protection

B - Flange of a steel rim

C - Full-size hub cap

Tyre sizes for vehicles with all-wheel drive

The following points must be observed for vehicles with four-wheel drive:

♦ Only tyres of the same make, same design and same tread pattern should be fitted to the front and rear axles.

♦ Different tyre rolling circumferences produce stress in the drive train which increases tyre wear and may damage the drive train.

♦ These restrictions also apply to front and rear tyres with greatly differing stages of wear. In such cases, tyres with the most tread must be fitted on the rear axle.