What are extra load tyres?
Understanding extra load tyres
Also referred to as XL tyres, extra load tyres have reinforcements in their internal construction which allow them to support larger loads and withstand higher inflation pressures compared to standard tyres of the same size.
Who needs extra load tyres?
XL tyres are made for vehicles designed to be heavier or have to carry more weight than normal. Some of the more common vehicles that require them would include:
- SUVs and crossovers
- People carriers and MPVs
- Electric vehicles, which due to the weight of their batteries are heavier than their petrol powered counterparts
- Modified performance vehicles
- Some vehicles that carry heavy loads or tow trailers
How to identify extra load tyres
XL tyres will have "XL" or "Extra Load" printed on the sidewall. In addition, they usually have a higher load index number compared to the standard version, in the same tyre size.
Do I need to replace like for like?
Yes. If your car came with XL tyres originally, you must replace them with equivalent ones. Installing standard tyres where XL tyres are mandatory can create risks of tyre failures from the normal driving loads.
How we handle this
Our system on Tyres.co.uk detects if your car needs XL tyres and accordingly displays your options. You won't be able to order a standard tyre when you need an extra load version.
