Land Rover Tire Markings and Care

Tire Markings Explained

Understanding tire markings is crucial for safe and efficient vehicle operation. The sidewall of a tire contains a wealth of information:

1. R: Indicates the tire is designed for passenger cars. This index is not always present.
2. Tire Width: The width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall in millimeters.
3. Aspect Ratio (Profile): The ratio of tire height to width. For example, if the tread width is 205mm and the aspect ratio is 50%, the sidewall height is 102mm.
4. R: Denotes a radial tire construction.
5. Rim Diameter: The diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
6. Load Index: The maximum load the tire can carry. This index is not always present.
7. Speed Rating: Indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can perform for a sustained period. Refer to page 253 for Speed Index details.
8. Standard Factory Information: This includes manufacturer details, place of production, and a date code (last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture, e.g., 5111 means the 51st week of 2011).
9. M+S or M/S: Indicates the tire is suitable for mud and snow conditions.
10. Ply Rating: Shows the number of layers in the cord and sidewall, indicating the tire's construction and materials.
11. Treadwear: An indicator of the tire's wear resistance. A higher number signifies longer tread life.
12. Traction: Assesses the tire's braking effectiveness on wet surfaces. The grading is from highest to lowest: AA, A, B, and C.
13. Maximum Load: The maximum load the tire can support.
14. Temperature Rating: Indicates the tire's heat resistance, graded as A (highest), B, or C. This rating applies to properly inflated tires used within their speed and load limits.
15. Maximum Tire Pressure: This pressure should not be used for normal driving. Refer to page 253, Tire Care.

New Tire Load Index: The load index of new tires should match the original equipment (OE) specifications. Consult your local dealer or authorized workshop if you have any doubts.

Speed Index and Load Capacity

Tire Care and Maintenance

General Precautions

• Do not drive on damaged, excessively worn, or improperly inflated tires.
• Avoid contact with automotive fluids, as they can damage tires.
• Prevent wheelspin, as it can damage tire structure and lead to failure. If wheelspin is unavoidable (e.g., in deep snow), limit speed to 50 km/h (30 mph).
• Do not exceed the maximum tire pressure indicated on the sidewall.
• After off-road driving, inspect tires for damage.
• Regularly check all tires (including the spare) for damage, wear, and deformation. If unsure, consult a tire repair shop or Land Rover dealer.

Tire Pressure

• Always check tire pressure on cold tires using an accurate gauge.
• If a tire appears properly inflated when hot, its pressure may drop to a dangerous level when cold.
• Never drive with underinflated tires, as this can cause excessive deformation, uneven wear, and sudden tire failure. Overinflated tires lead to a harsh ride, uneven wear, and reduced handling.
• Underinflated tires also reduce fuel economy, tread life, and can affect vehicle handling and braking.
• If the vehicle is exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures, do not reduce tire pressure. Move the vehicle to shade and allow tires to cool before checking pressure.
• Recommended tire pressures for light and heavy loads are indicated on a sticker located in the driver's door frame.
• When checking or adjusting tire pressure, consider the vehicle's load.
• If tire pressure is adjusted for comfort or heavy loads, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may need to be reset. Refer to page 126, Vehicle Loading.

Tire Pressure Check Procedure

1. Remove the valve cap.
2. Securely attach the tire pressure gauge or pump to the valve stem.
3. Read the pressure and inflate the tire if necessary.
4. Remove the gauge and reattach it for a second reading to ensure accuracy.
5. If overinflated, release air by pressing the valve core. Re-check pressure.
6. Repeat the process of adding or releasing air until the correct pressure is achieved.
7. Replace the valve cap.

Tire Valve Stems

Ensure valve caps are securely tightened to prevent water and dirt from entering the valve stem. Check valve stems for leaks during tire pressure checks.

Punctured Tires

Do not drive on a punctured tire. Even if it appears inflated, there is a risk of sudden pressure loss. Replace the tire or contact an authorized workshop.

Tire Replacement

• Use replacement tires of the same type and, if possible, the same brand and tread pattern.
• New tires must have a load index and speed rating at least equal to the OE specifications. Consult your Land Rover dealer if unsure.
• Do not rotate tires on the vehicle.
• If using tires not recommended by Land Rover, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Tire Wear and Deformation

• When tread wear reaches approximately 2mm, wear indicators will appear on the tread surface.
• It is preferable to replace all four tires simultaneously. If not possible, replace them in pairs (front or rear).
• After replacing tires, balance the wheels and check the wheel alignment.
• For information on tire characteristics and pressure, refer to page 254, Tire Pressure.

Preventing Tire Deformation (Flat Spotting)

In areas with high ambient temperatures, tire sidewalls can soften. Prolonged parking can cause tires to develop flat spots where they contact the surface. This is normal and may cause vibration when starting, which usually disappears as the vehicle moves.

To minimize flat spotting, tire pressure can be increased to the maximum limit indicated on the sidewall. Before driving, ensure tire pressure is returned to the normal recommended level (see page 254).

Tire Aging

Tires age over time due to UV rays, extreme temperatures, high loads, and environmental conditions. It is recommended to replace tires every six years, or sooner if necessary.

Winter Tire Usage

• Many countries require the use of winter tires during specific seasons.
• M+S (Mud and Snow) rated tires are generally effective in winter conditions. The M+S marking indicates all-season capability, including low temperatures, snow, and ice.
• A snowflake symbol indicates specialized winter tires for optimal grip in winter or severe winter conditions.
• Specialized winter tires may have a lower speed rating than standard tires. Adhere to the speed limits for these tires.
• Tire pressure recommendations on the information sticker apply to original tires. If using tires with lower speed ratings, the recommended pressure is valid for speeds below 160 km/h (100 mph).
• For optimal snow and ice grip, break in winter tires by driving at least 160 kilometers (100 miles) on dry roads before winter conditions.

Approved Winter Tire Sizes for Land Rover

*Note: The use of studded tires depends on the market. Consult your Land Rover dealer or authorized workshop.

When using specialized winter tires, it may be necessary to change wheel sizes depending on the original wheel selection. All four wheels must be changed.

If standard rubber valve stems are used, the TPMS warning light will flash for 75 seconds and then remain illuminated, displaying a "TYRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM FAULT" message.

After installing original wheels and tires, drive a short distance to reset the TPMS and turn off the warning light.

Snow Chain Usage

• Use snow chains only in heavy snow or packed snow conditions.
• Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) when using snow chains.
• Do not install snow chains on a temporary spare tire.
• For improved traction in packed snow and heavy snowfall, use snow chains approved by Land Rover. Chains should not be used off-road.
• If installing traction devices in the absence of packed snow, follow these guidelines:
  • Only use snow chains approved by Land Rover. Approved chains have undergone testing to ensure they do not damage the vehicle. Contact your dealer or authorized workshop for more information.
  • The installed wheels and tires must match the original equipment specifications.
  • Full chain devices can be installed on the rear wheels of vehicles with 19 and 20-inch wheels.
  • Semi-chain devices can be installed on the rear wheels of vehicles with 21 and 22-inch wheels.
  • Snow chains must be installed in pairs on the same axle.
  • Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for snow chains. Pay close attention to maximum speed and installation guidelines.
  • Avoid damaging tires or the vehicle when removing snow chains.

Declaration for Tires (India Only)

All imported tires comply with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) 1989. The tires conform to the original equipment (OE) fitted on Land Rover models and fully meet Indian standards.