Tyre Sidewall Markings Explained South Africa

Safety note: tyre fitment and safety decisions depend on the exact vehicle, tyre specification and physical condition. These pages are educational guides, not a remote roadworthiness inspection.

TYRE MARKINGS

What matters before you make a tyre decision

SizeWidth / aspect ratio / construction / rim diameter describe the core size, but not the whole fitment specification.

Load indexThe load index must be appropriate for the vehicle and axle requirements.

Speed ratingMatch the manufacturer requirement; do not choose solely from the tyre-size numbers.

Other markingsXL/reinforced, run-flat, OE markings and manufacturing codes can materially affect replacement suitability.

Reference used: Michelin South Africa →. Top Point still recommends checking the exact tyre and current vehicle/manufacturer requirements.

Request Inspection / Quote Relevant Tyre Service

BEFORE CONTACTING THE WORKSHOP

Send the information that helps us advise correctly

Vehicle make, model, year and derivative if known
Current tyre size and full sidewall marking
Which wheel/tyre is affected
Current pressure and how quickly it changes, if relevant
Photos of visible damage only as supporting context—not a substitute for inspection
Any vibration, pulling, noise, warning light or uneven wear

RELATED TYRE GUIDES

Continue your tyre research

Tyre DOT Date Code GuideThe final four digits of the tyre date marking identify the production week and year; use age together with condition and manufacturer guidance.Tyre Speed Rating GuideSpeed ratings form part of the tyre specification. Replacement tyres should meet the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements rather than being chosen from size alone.Tyre Load Index GuideLoad index indicates a tyre’s load capability at specified conditions and must be appropriate for the exact vehicle and axle requirements.XL & Reinforced Tyres ExplainedXL or reinforced markings indicate a tyre designed for higher load capability at specified pressures; do not substitute specifications without checking vehicle requirements.Legal Tyre Tread Depth South AfricaUnderstand South African tread-depth rules, tread-wear indicators and why a safety replacement decision can be more conservative than the legal minimum.When to Replace TyresUse tread, age, damage, uneven wear, repeated pressure loss and vehicle behaviour to decide when tyres need professional inspection or replacement.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tyre Sidewall Markings Explained FAQs

Do I need the exact vehicle details?

Yes. Make, model, year, derivative, wheel size and current tyre markings help prevent incorrect fitment or advice.

Can Top Point provide a current tyre quote?

Yes. Send the tyre size or vehicle details and Top Point can quote current available options rather than relying on stale online pricing.

Where is Top Point located?

The current physical workshop is at 112 Turf Club Street, Turffontein, Johannesburg South. These national guides do not claim branches elsewhere.

Workshop location: Top Point Fitment Center currently operates from 112 Turf Club Street, Turffontein, Johannesburg South. National tyre guides are research resources and do not represent branches elsewhere in South Africa.