Tires/Rims

Why are tires so important?

Tires are the only point of contact between a truck and the road. They influence everything from safety and comfort to fuel consumption and operating costs. Understanding tire markings and classifications is therefore crucial when choosing the right ones.

Safety and performance

The right tires provide better grip, shorter braking distances, and more stable driving whether on highways, in city traffic, or at construction sites. Worn or incorrect tires not only increase the risk of accidents but also put additional strain on other vehicle components.

Economy and environment

Low rolling resistance tires contribute to reduced fuel consumption and lower CO₂ emissions. For a truck covering tens of thousands of kilometers each year, the right choice of tires can mean significant savings for both your budget and the environment.

Key markings and classifications

When selecting tires for your truck, you’ll encounter several markings and classifications, each with an important purpose:

• EU tire label
  Since November 2012, all tires sold within the EU are labeled with an energy label. For truck tires, this includes three parameters:

  • Fuel efficiency (rolling resistance) – rated A–E, with A being best.

  • Wet grip – shows braking performance on wet surfaces, rated A–E.

  • External noise – measured in decibels and classified A–C.

• Load index (LI)
  Indicates how much weight the tire can carry. The higher the number, the greater the load capacity, a critical factor for trucks.

• Speed index (SI)
  Specifies the maximum speed the tire is designed to handle. It is marked with letters (e.g., K = 110 km/h, L = 120 km/h).

• M+S and 3PMSF

  • M+S (Mud + Snow): Indicates improved performance in mud and snow compared to standard tires.

  • 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake): A certified marking showing that the tire has been tested and approved for winter conditions under EU standards.

• Retreadable and tread depth
  Many truck tires are retreadable, extending service life and lowering costs. Checking minimum tread depth (for heavy vehicles at least 1 mm in Sweden) is also essential for safety compliance.

Summary

The choice of tires directly impacts the safety, operating economy, and durability of your truck. By understanding tire markings, you can make smarter decisions that deliver better performance, lower fuel costs, and longer service life.

We offer a wide range of truck tires with clear classifications and we’re here to help you interpret the markings so you can choose the best tires for your needs.