How to choose tyres for your car: a step-by-step guide

Start with your car's requirements and the roads you drive, rather than price or brand alone. These five steps will help you compare tyres that actually fit your vehicle.

1. Check the approved tyre size

Find the approved tyre and wheel sizes in the vehicle handbook or manufacturer's information. The marking on an old tyre is a useful clue, but does not by itself prove that the size is approved for your particular car. For example, 205/55 R16 describes width, aspect ratio and rim diameter. If you want a different size, first check whether that tyre and wheel combination is approved for the vehicle. Read the size guide.

2. Match the load and speed ratings

The size is followed by a load index and speed symbol, such as 91V. Choose tyres whose ratings meet your vehicle's requirements. If several wheel and tyre combinations are approved, check the ratings for the combination you plan to use. The European Commission explains the markings.

3. Choose the season and consider your routes

Choose summer tyres for summer use. For winter, consider Estonian rules and the roads you use most. Studless winter tyres used in Estonia must carry the three-peak mountain and snowflake (3PMSF) symbol; M+S alone is insufficient. If you are considering all-season tyres, check their winter marking and whether they suit your actual driving conditions. See winter tyre dates and the studded versus studless guide.

4. Compare EU labels for tyres in the same size

The EU tyre label shows wet grip and rolling resistance classes (A–E), plus external rolling noise in decibels and as a class. Tyres for severe snow conditions may also display the 3PMSF symbol. The label helps compare models but does not describe every characteristic, such as handling on ice. Read the winter marking guide and the European Commission's label guide.

5. Make a shortlist before ordering

Filter the Koleso.ee tyre catalogue by approved size and season. Compare two or three suitable models for wet grip, price and availability. Budget for the full set you need and fitting. Before ordering, recheck the exact size, load and speed ratings, and winter markings where relevant.

Frequently asked questions

Can I choose tyres using only the car model? A vehicle search is a good starting point, but different model years and trims can use different wheel sizes. Confirm the result against your vehicle's information.

Can I fit wider or taller tyres? Only if that tyre and wheel combination is approved for your car. Do not change one size number in isolation.

Is M+S enough for winter in Estonia? Studless winter tyres need the 3PMSF symbol. Check Transpordiamet's guidance.