JARGON BUSTERS

Quick Guide: Markings & Features

• XL / FR: Reinforced for weight (XL) and integrated Flange Rib (FR) to protect alloy wheels from kerbs.
• OE (Original Equipment): Custom-tuned markings proving the tyre meets the exact standards of manufacturers like MO (Mercedes), AO (Audi), VOL (Volvo), and ★ (BMW).
• 3PMSF Symbol: (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) Official certification for legal use in severe winter and snow conditions.
• Chili Compound: Ensures peak grip without a warm-up phase, vital for cold Irish mornings.
• High Mileage: Offers a 15% increase in mileage over its highly-rated predecessor, providing superior value.

Popular 17" Saloons, Hatchbacks & Estates

• Audi A4: AO-marked fitments provide the ideal balance of all-weather safety for the executive saloon market.
• BMW 3 Series: Star-marked (★) fitments ensure rear-wheel-drive safety and control during occasional cold snaps.
• Volkswagen Golf: Provides year-round versatility, eliminating the need for a separate set of winter wheels.
• Ford Focus: Enhances the handling with confidence, regardless of unexpected changes in Irish weather.
• Toyota Corolla: Matches the hybrid’s fuel economy needs with the added safety net of winter certification.
• Skoda Octavia: The ultimate long-distance fleet choice, ensuring safety from damp autumn to occasional winter snow.
• Volvo V60: VOL-marked tyres provide essential safety and stability for heavy plug-in hybrid estate models in all conditions.
• Mercedes C-Class: MO-marked tyres deliver luxury comfort with the added bonus of snow capability.
• Hyundai i30: A durable, high-mileage choice for drivers seeking simplicity and total weather confidence.
• Opel Insignia: Offers stable, high-speed motorway performance with proven resilience in unpredictable conditions.

Load Rating: Maximum Weight Capacity Explained

The load index is a numerical code representing the maximum weight in kgs that a single tyre can safely carry. To ensure safety, the combined capacity of all four tyres must exceed the vehicle’s total weight when fully loaded.

Speed Rating: Maximum Velocity Explained

Represented by a letter, the speed rating indicates the maximum kph a tyre can maintain over a prolonged period. Higher speed ratings are engineered to handle the heat and stresses generated at faster speeds more effectively.

Quick Reference Guide

• Check your requirements: You can find the specific requirements for your vehicle on the tyre information plate (usually located on the driver-side door pillar) or in the owner's manual.
• Replacement rule: It is vital never to fit a tyre with a lower load index or speed rating than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Common Ratings: Standard ratings include T (190 kph), H (210 kph), and V (240 kph). You can view a full conversion table below..

Available 17" Sizes:
These 2026 fitments are tailored for Ireland's mild, damp climate, offering 3PMSF-certified winter safety and summer longevity.

• 205, 45, R17, 88H, XL, FR
• 205, 50, R17, 93H, XL, FR
• 205, 55, R17, 95H, XL, FR
• 215, 45, R17, 91H, XL, FR
• 215, 50, R17, 95H, XL, FR
• 215, 55, R17, 98H, XL, FR
• 215, 60, R17, 100H, XL, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 94H, XL, FR
• 225, 50, R17, 98H, XL, FR
• 225, 55, R17, 101H, XL, FR
• 235, 45, R17, 97H, XL, FR
• 235, 55, R17, 103H, XL, FR

OE (Manufacturer Approved) Versions:

• 225, 45, R17, 91H, ★
• 225, 50, R17, 94H, AO
• 225, 55, R17, 97H, VOL
• 205, 55, R17, 91H, MO