What Does XL Mean on a Tyre?
XL stands for Extra Load. You will see it moulded into the sidewall next to the size, and sometimes written as REINFORCED. It tells you the tyre is built to carry a higher load than a standard tyre of the same size.
How an XL tyre differs
An XL tyre has a reinforced internal structure and is rated at a higher load index when inflated to a higher pressure. Two tyres can share the same width, profile and rim size, such as 225/45 R17, yet carry different load ratings.
Do I need XL tyres?
You need tyres with a load index at least as high as your vehicle manufacturer specifies. If your car was fitted new with XL tyres, replace them with XL. Fitting standard-load tyres where XL is required can mean the tyre is overloaded, which is unsafe and may affect your insurance.
The reverse is allowed in most cases: an XL tyre on a car that only needs standard load will normally be fine, though ride and pressure recommendations may change.
Where to check
- The vehicle handbook
- The sticker on the door frame or fuel flap
- The sidewall of your current tyres: look for the load index (a number such as 94) and speed rating (a letter such as V) after the size
Pressures on XL tyres
Use the pressure stated for your car, not a generic figure. Our tyre pressure guide shows how to check it, and tyre sizes explained covers the rest of the sidewall markings.
Not sure which tyre your car needs? Give us your registration and we will confirm the right size and load rating before we fit your tyres at home.