Tyre markings explained

Tyres have many of the symbols and markings required by law. These include product and manufacturer details, production dates, size, load index and speed rating. One of the most important is the ECE-approval symbol and number, a legal requirement confirming the tyre can be sold in Europe.

The best place to get new tyres for your vehicle is your local Ford Dealer.

Our specialists can advise you on relevant tyre safety laws, show you what to look out for when checking your tyres, and will be happy to guide you in finding the right tyre for your Ford, based on your driving patterns and available budget.

We offer a range of tyres at competitive recommended retail prices, including fitting and balance, standard valves and disposal, and will check all wheel components for you during the course of the tyre fitting.

What you need to know

Many of the symbol and markings are required by law. What do the tyre symbols and markings mean?

On the tyre sidewall you will find details including the name of the manufacturer, product description, construction type, production date and much more.

Tyre date code

The tyre date code is found on the tyre wall. It’s a four-digit number that shows you the week and the year the tyre was made.

Legal requirements

One of the most important is the ECE-approval symbol (a capital ‘E’ in a circle) followed by a number.

This marking is a legal requirements and confirms that the tyre can be sold in Europe.

Size designation and markings

An example of the size designation and markings is shown below – see the tables below for the Load Index Code and the Speed Rating Symbol.

Tyre speed rating symbol

Additional markings