Tyre width – the first three digits display the width of the tyre in millimetres, tyres marked 225 measure 225mm across the tread from the sidewall to sidewall.

Aspect ratio – this is the fourth and fifth digits of the code that follow the width. Aspect ratio (profile height) of the sidewall is expressed as a percentage of the actual width. For example a ratio of55 means the profile height is 55% of the width.

Radial – radial tyres come with the latter R on the markings. They are constructed with the cord piles, these are positioned at a 90 degree to the direction of travel, to give additional strength to the tyre. Most new tyres which are manufactured today are radial tyres.

Wheel diameter – the following two digits represent the actual size of the wheel rim which the tyre can be fitted too. In addition, it is the diameter from bead to bead of the tyre. For example a tyre which is marked 16 would fit on a 16 -inch wheel rim.

Summer Tyres

Fitted to cars from new, these tyres are created with a softer compound. During

warmer periods they grip the dry roads better offering both good handling and steering. These tyres are less effective during ice and snow conditions as they get hard in the cold weather, this can affect their grip on the road including their performance. Ideally suited for March to October.

Winter Tyres

Otherwise known as snow tyres these have a different technology to summer tyres. When the temperature drops below 7 degrees celsius snow tyres will hold the road much better, giving more grip and better handling on the road. They feature small grooves on the tread pattern which help to have a good grip on the snow and ice.

All Season Tyres

Finally, the all-season tyre, this is an all-around option, which is agile to grip on dry roads but it does not harden as much as the summer tyre during the winter days. In the UK we donʼt always get hot summers and generally, snowfall is rare. A good solution for motorists as they still perform in wet conditions.

Tyres are now assessed on three areas of tyre performance and given a rating in each for the EU tyre labels. This allows consumers to compare different tyres on a like for like basis. The areas which are assessed are:

Fuel Efficiency – looking at how economic the tyre is. Wet Grip – how quick the tyre can stop in wet conditions Exterior Noise – how noisy the tyre is