JARGON BUSTERS

Key Features & Markings Explained

• 3PMSF Symbol: (3 Peak Mountain Snowflake) Signifies full certification for use in severe winter conditions, guaranteeing performance when temperatures drop below 7°C.
• EU Grade A Wet Braking: The highest attainable safety rating, vital for superior grip and minimal stopping distances in constant Irish rain.
• Adaptive Tread Technology: Features 3D sipes that change shape as the tyre wears to maintain grip on snow and water throughout the tyre's life.
• XL (Extra Load): Reinforced construction to safely handle the weight of modern passenger cars and small CUVs.
• FR (Felgenrippe): An integrated Rim Guard feature that provides physical protection to your alloy wheels from accidental curb damage.

Popular 17" Fitments for the Irish Market

• Volkswagen Golf / Passat / Tiguan: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) An "A" rated upgrade over standard summer tyres in winter months, eliminating seasonal swaps.
• Audi A3 / A4 / Q2: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) A practical choice offering excellent all-weather grip while maintaining a quality ride.
• Mercedes-Benz A-Class / C-Class / GLA: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) Provides consistent performance in Ireland's variable climate.
• Skoda Octavia / Karoq: (225/45 R17 & 215/55 R17) Ideal for business users needing reliable performance regardless of sudden weather changes.
• Toyota C-HR / Auris: (215/55 R17) Offers excellent year-round grip without compromising hybrid fuel economy.
• Ford Focus / Mondeo: (205/50 R17 & 215/50 R17) Enhanced wet weather safety for these popular models. 

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..

Pirelli Cinturato™ All Season SF 3 17" Size List (Smallest to Largest) 

• 205, 50, R17, 93W, XL, FR
• 205, 55, R17, 95V, XL, FR
• 215, 50, R17, 95W, XL, FR
• 215, 55, R17, 94V, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 91W, FR
• 225, 45, R17, 94Y, XL, FR
• 225, 50, R17, 94Y, FR
• 225, 55, R17, 101Y, XL, FR
• 235, 45, R17, 97Y, XL, FR