Advice & Guides

Common UK Tyre Sizes Explained

How to read the numbers on your tyre sidewall, and the sizes we fit most often for popular UK cars.

How to Read a Tyre Size

A size such as 205/55 R16 91V looks cryptic but each part has a meaning: 205 is the width in millimetres, 55 is the profile (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R means radial, 16 is the wheel diameter in inches, 91 is the load index and V is the speed rating.

You will find your size on the tyre sidewall or in the car’s handbook. Fitting the correct size and ratings matters for safety, handling and your MOT.

Sizes We Fit Most Often

Across popular UK cars, these are among the sizes we see most frequently:

  • 195/65 R15, often on older superminis and family cars
  • 205/55 R16, very common on mid-size hatchbacks and saloons
  • 225/45 R17, typical of sportier hatchbacks and estates
  • 205/60 R16 and 215/55 R17, seen on crossovers and family SUVs
  • 175/65 R14 and 185/60 R15, common on small city cars

Not sure what you need?

If you cannot find your size or are not sure, give us a reg or bring the car in. We will identify the correct tyre for your vehicle and check stock, usually sourcing it the same day.

Need a hand with your tyres?

Pop in to our Hedge End workshop or give us a call for honest, no-obligation advice.

Need tyres or a repair? Let’s get you sorted.

Pop in, call the workshop, or send us a quick message and we’ll come straight back to you with honest advice and a fair price.

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