JARGON BUSTED

Key Markings Explained

• XL (Extra Load): Reinforced to handle the weight and torque of heavy, powerful SUVs.
• FR (Flange Protector): Integrated rim guard to protect expensive 21" alloys.
• AO: Original Equipment approved specifically for Audi.
• MO: Engineered to meet the performance standards of Mercedes-Benz.
• VOL: Custom-tuned for Volvo vehicle dynamics and safety.
• J / LR: Specifically engineered for Jaguar and Land Rover models.
• CS, ContiSilent: Features internal foam to significantly reduce road noise in the cabin.

8 Popular Compatible Vehicles

1. Audi Q7 / Q8: Frequently fitted with 285/40 R21 or 275/45 R21 (AO marked).
2. Mercedes-Benz GLE / GLS: Common fitment for 285/45 R21 or 315/40 R21 (MO marked).
3. Volvo XC90: Uses the 275/40 R21 (VOL marked) as a premium factory fitment.
4. Jaguar F-Pace: Often utilizes the 265/45 R21 (J / LR marked) with ContiSilent.
5. Land Rover Discovery: Compatible with 275/45 R21 or 285/45 R21.
6. Volkswagen Touareg: Uses 285/40 R21 for high-spec performance models.
7. BMW X5 / X7: Compatible with various 21" sizes, often in staggered setups.
8. Range Rover Sport: Uses the 275/45 R21 or 285/45 R21 for refined highway cruising.

Summer tyres are most common in Ireland, offering peak fuel efficiency mileage and grip when temperatures stay above 7°C. However, they are not the official standard for winter safety. Motorists must show caution in cold conditions; below 7°C, summer rubber hardens, significantly compromising grip and wet braking performance on cold, saturated Irish roads.

All-Season tyres are the superior "fit-and-forget" solution for Ireland's wet, temperate climate. Specifically engineered to remain flexible in the cold, they provide shorter stopping distances on near-freezing, rain-soaked surfaces and carry the 3PMSF certification for frost and light snow. They offer total year-round peace of mind without the hassle of seasonal swaps.

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 21" CUV/SUV Sizes and Markings

• 265/45 R21 104V FR, MO (Mercedes-Benz)
• 265/45 R21 108W XL, FR, ContiSilent, J (Jaguar) / LR (Land Rover)
• 275/40 R21 107Y XL, FR, VOL (Volvo)
• 275/45 R21 110V XL, FR
• 275/45 R21 110Y XL, FR, AO (Audi)
• 285/40 R21 109Y XL, FR, AO (Audi)
• 285/45 R21 113W XL, FR, MO (Mercedes-Benz)
• 295/40 R21 111W XL, FR, MO (Mercedes-Benz)
• 315/40 R21 111Y FR, MO (Mercedes-Benz)
• 325/40 R21 113V FR, MO (Mercedes-Benz)