Tires and wheels

 Introduction
In this section you’ll find information about:
Tire and wheel handling
Wheel rims
New and replacement tires
Tire inflation pressure
Tire inflation pressure in cold tires
Tread depth and tread wear indicators
Tire wear and damage
Compact spare wheel
Tire labeling
Winter tires
Snow chains
Glossary of tire and loading terminology
Tires and vehicle load limits
Determining the correct load limit
UTQG classification

Volkswagen recommends that all work on tires and wheels be done by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. They are familiar with the technical requirements
and recommended procedures, have the necessary special tools and spare parts, and can properly
dispose of old tires.

More information:
 Transporting
 Trailer towing
 Tire Pressure Monitoring System
 Braking and parking
 Exterior care and cleaning
 Consumer information
 Vehicle tool kit
 Wheel covers
 Changing a wheel
 WARNING
New tires or tires that are old, worn or damaged cannot provide maximum control and
braking performance.
 Improper care and handling of tires and wheels can reduce driving safety and cause
accidents and severe injuries.
 Install only radial tires of the same make, the same dimensions (tread circumference), and
similar tread profile on all 4 wheels.
 New tires tend to be slippery and must be broken in. Always drive with special care for the
first 350 miles (560 km) to help reduce the risk of losing control, a collision, and serious
personal injuries.
 Check tire inflation pressure regularly when the tires are cold and always maintain the
prescribed tire pressure. Low tire pressure can cause tires to get too hot, resulting in tread
separation, sudden loss of pressure, and blowouts. Tires with excessively low pressure flex
(bend) more, which can cause the tire to overheat and fail suddenly without warning.
 Check tires regularly for wear and damage.
 Never drive with worn or damaged tires (for example, tires with punctures, cuts, cracks,
blisters, or bumps). Driving with worn or damaged tires can lead to loss of vehicle control,
sudden tire failure including blowouts and sudden deflation, crashes, and serious personal
injuries.
 Have worn or damaged tires replaced immediately.
 Never exceed the maximum speed rating or the maximum load rating of the tires on your
vehicle.
 The effectiveness of the driver assistance systems and the braking support systems
depends on the tire traction.
 If you notice unusual vibration or if the vehicle pulls to one side when driving, always stop
as soon as it is safe to do so and check the wheels and tires for damage.
 To reduce the risk of losing control, crashes, and serious personal injuries, never loosen
the bolts on wheels with bolted rim rings.
 Never mount used tires on your vehicle if you are not sure of their past use. Old, used
tires and wheels may have damage that cannot be seen that can lead to sudden tire failure
and loss of vehicle control.
 Tires age even if they are not being used and can fail suddenly, especially at high speeds,
causing loss of vehicle control, accidents, and severe personal injuries. Tires that are more
than 6 years old can be used only in an emergency and even then only with special care and
at low speed.

For technical reasons it is usually not possible to use wheel rims from other vehicles. Even wheel
rims from the same model may not fit properly. Check with an authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility if necessary.
Tire and wheel handling

Fig. 111 Tire rotation diagram.

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Tires may be the least appreciated and most abused parts of a motor vehicle. Tires are very important,
since their small patches of rubber are the only contact between your vehicle and the road.
Maintaining correct tire pressure, making sure that your vehicle and its tires do not have to carry more
weight than they can safely handle, and regularly inspecting tires for damage (such as cuts, slashes,
irregular wear, and overall condition) are the most important things that you can do to help avoid
sudden tire failure, including tread separation and blowout.
The tires and wheels are essential parts of the vehicle's design. The tires and wheels approved by
Volkswagen are specially matched to the characteristics of the vehicle for good road holding and safe
handling when in good condition and properly inflated.

Avoiding tire damage

 If you must drive over a curb or other obstacle, drive very slowly and as much as possible at a right
angle to the curb with the tire tread of both front wheels contacting the curb at the same time.
 Regularly check tires for damage, such as punctures, cuts, tears and blisters.
 Remove embedded material in the tread profile that has not yet penetrated the inside of the tire
⇒ Tire wear and damage.
 Heed all warning messages from the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) ⇒ Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS).
 Replace worn or damaged tires immediately ⇒ Tire wear and damage.
 Damage to tires and wheels is often not readily visible. If you notice unusual vibration or the
vehicle pulls to one side, this may indicate that one of the tires is damaged. The tires must be checked
immediately for hidden damage by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen
Service Facility. See also ⇒ Tire wear and damage.
 Never exceed the load and permissible maximum speed rating of the tires ⇒ Tire labeling.
 Always keep aggressive chemicals including grease, oil, gasoline and brake fluid off the tires,
including the compact spare tire ⇒ .
 Replace missing valve caps immediately.

Unidirectional tires
Unidirectional tires are designed to rotate only in one direction. Unidirectional tires have arrows on the
sidewalls that show the direction of rotation ⇒ Tire labeling. Unidirectional tires must always be
mounted according to the specified direction of rotation in order to deliver their best grip, braking
performance, low road noise, and good wear as well as good hydroplaning resistance.
If you have to mount a tire opposite to its proper direction of rotation, you must drive more carefully,
since the tire is no longer being used as designed. This is particularly important on wet roads. You
must replace or remount the tire as soon as possible in order to restore the correct direction of
rotation.

Rotating tires
To help ensure even wear on all tires, regular tire rotation according to the diagram ⇒ fig. 111 is
recommended. In this way all tires can have about the same service life.
Volkswagen recommends that you have your tires rotated by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Tires more than 6 years old

Tires age even if they are not being used. Physical and chemical processes reduce tire strength and
performance and cause them to harden and become brittle. Old tires can fail suddenly and without
warning.
Volkswagen recommends replacing tires that are 6 years and older. This also applies to tires that look
new (including the tire on the compact spare wheel) or that seem to still be usable with tread depth
that has not yet reached the legal minimum depth ⇒ .
The age of each tire can be determined with the manufacturing date that is part of the U.S. DOT tire
identification number (TIN) ⇒ Tire labeling.

Tire storage
Mark tires before removing them to help make sure that the previous location (left, right, front, rear)
and rolling direction can be maintained when remounting them. Store tires in a cool, dry and preferably
dark place. Do not store tires mounted on wheels standing up.
Tires not mounted on wheels should be covered to help protect them from dirt and stored vertically
(sitting on the tread).

WARNING
Aggressive fluids and materials can cause visible and invisible tire damage that can cause
tire blowouts.
 Always keep chemicals, oils, grease, fuels, braking fluids and other aggressive
substances away from tires.

WARNING
Tires age even if they are not being used and can fail suddenly, especially at high speeds,
causing loss of vehicle control, accidents, and severe personal injuries.
 Tires that are more than 6 years old can be used only in an emergency and even then only
with special care and at low speed.

Always dispose of old tires in accordance with legal requirements.

Wheel rims
 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
The design of wheel bolts is matched to the factory-installed wheels. If different wheels are installed,
wheel bolts with the right length and bolt head shape must be used. This helps to ensure that wheels
can be mounted securely and that the brakes will work correctly ⇒ Changing a wheel.
In most cases, you cannot use wheel bolts from a different vehicle. Even wheel rims from the same
model may not fit properly.
Tires and wheel rims approved by Volkswagen have been matched precisely to your vehicle model
and contribute considerably to good handling and safe vehicle performance.

Tightening Torque
Wheel bolts must always be installed with the correct tightening torque ⇒ Changing a wheel. The
required tightening torque for your vehicle's wheel bolts is 103 ft lbs (140 Nm) for front-wheel drive
vehicles and 88 ft lbs (120 Nm) for vehicles with four-wheel drive (4MOTION). After changing a
wheel, the bolt torque must be checked as soon as possible with an accurate torque wrench. See an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Wheel rims with bolted rim rings

Wheel rims with bolted rim rings have several parts. The parts are bolted together with special screws
in a special process. This helps to ensure that they will work properly, prevent leaks, run true and
safely. Damaged wheel rims must be replaced, and you must never take them apart or try to repair
them yourself. Have an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility
repair them for you ⇒ .

Wheel rims with bolted decorative covers

Light-alloy wheels may have interchangeable decorative covers attached to the rim with self-locking
screws. If you want to replace damaged wheel covers, contact your authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility ⇒ .

WARNING
Using improper or damaged wheel rims can affect driving safety, cause accidents and severe
personal injuries.
 Use only wheel rims approved for the vehicle.
 Regularly check wheel rims for damage and replace them if necessary.

WARNING
Improper loosening and tightening of the bolts on wheel rims with bolted rim rings can cause
accidents and severe personal injury.
 Never loosen bolted connections on wheel rims with bolted rim rings.
 Have all work on wheel rims with bolted rim rings performed by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

New and replacement tires

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

New tires
 Drive a vehicle with new tires especially carefully for the first 350 miles (560 km) because the tires
must first be broken in. Tires that are not broken in have reduced traction ⇒ and braking
performance ⇒ .
 Install only radial tires only of the same make, same dimensions (tread circumference), and similar
tread profile on all 4 wheels.
 The tread depth of new tires can differ between tire models and manufacturers because of different
design features and tread design.

Replacing tires
 Tires should be replaced in pairs and not individually (both front tires or both rear tires at the same
time) ⇒ .
 Replace tires only with tires that have the same specifications, including width and diameter, load
and top speed rating as the tires approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle and model.
 Never use tires that are larger or wider than the dimensions of the tires approved by Volkswagen
for your vehicle and model. Larger tires could scrape and rub on the vehicle body or other parts of the
vehicle.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) considerations

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated in the appropriate menu in the MFI
whenever you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled
or replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire pressure
does not change ⇒ Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

WARNING
New tires tend to be slippery and must be broken in.
 Always drive with special care for the first 350 miles (560 km) to help reduce the risk of
losing control, a collision, and serious personal injuries.

WARNING
Tires must have the required clearance. Tires that do not have enough clearance can rub
against parts of the vehicle body, suspension, and brake system, causing brake system
failure, tread delamination, and sudden blowouts.
 Always make sure that new tires are not larger than the tires approved for your vehicle
and that the new tires do not rub against parts of the vehicle.

NOTICE
 When switching to different tires, make certain the valves are not damaged.
 Never drive without valve stem caps. The valves could be damaged.

Always dispose of old tires in accordance with legal requirements.

If the replacement wheel is different from the tires that you have mounted on your vehicle (for
example winter tires or wider, low-profile tires, or a compact spare), then use the replacement wheel
for a short time only, and drive cautiously.
 Replace it with a tire matching the others on your vehicle as soon as possible.

Although tire size specifications can be the same, the actual dimensions may differ from those
nominal values for different tire makes, or the tire contours may be significantly different.
Tire inflation pressure

Fig. 112 Location of the tire inflation pressure label.

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
The correct tire inflation pressure for the factory-installed tires is listed on a label. The factory-installed
tires may be summer, winter, or all-season tires. The label ⇒ fig. 112 is on the driver door jamb.
Under- or over-inflation significantly shortens the service life of your tires and affects the handling of
the vehicle ⇒ . The correct tire pressure is very important, particularly when the vehicle is driven at
higher speeds. Incorrect tire pressure causes increased wear and even sudden tire failure and
blowouts.
Therefore, tire pressure should be checked at least once a month and always before long trips.
The specified tire inflation pressure applies to a cold tires. When tires are warm, the pressure will be
higher than when the tires are cold.
Do not reduce the tire pressure on warm tires to match the required cold tire inflation pressure. The
tire inflation pressure would then be too low and could cause sudden tire failure and blowout.

Checking tire inflation pressure

Always check the tire pressure only on “cold” tires when the vehicle has not been driven more than a
couple of miles (kilometers) at low speed within the last 3 hours.
 Check tire inflation pressure regularly and on cold tires. Check all the tires, including the compact
spare, if any. In colder climates tire pressure should be checked more often, but only when the tires
are cold. Always use an accurate tire pressure gauge.
 After adjusting the tire inflation pressures, make sure to screw the valve caps back on; replace
missing valve caps immediately. Please read and heed the information on resetting the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System, if necessary ⇒ Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
 Remember that the vehicle manufacturer, not the tire manufacturer, determines the correct tire
pressure for the tires on your vehicle. Never exceed the maximum inflation pressure listed on the tire
sidewall for any reason.
Inflate the spare wheel to the pressure specified for the vehicle's road wheels on the tire pressure
label; inflate a compact spare wheel to the pressure specified for the compact spare on the tire
pressure label or on a separate label for the compact spare, if there is one.
 WARNING
Incorrect tire pressure can cause a sudden tire failure or blowout, loss of control, collision,
serious personal injury, and even death.
 Always inflate tires to the recommended and correct cold tire pressure before driving off.
 Low tire pressure can cause tires to get too hot, resulting in tread separation, sudden loss
of pressure, and blowouts. Tires with excessively low pressure flex (bend) more, which can
cause the tire to overheat and fail suddenly without warning.
 Excessive speed and/or overloading can cause heat buildup, sudden tire failure including
a blowout and sudden deflation and loss of control.
 If the tire pressure is too low or too high, the tires will wear prematurely and the vehicle
will not handle well.
 Regularly check tire inflation pressure, at least once a month, and also especially before a
long trip.
 Check the pressure in all four tires when the tires are still cold. Never reduce air pressure
in warm tires to match cold tire inflation pressure.

NOTICE
 Make sure not to jam the tire pressure gauge into the valve stem. Otherwise you can
damage the tire valves.
 Driving without valve caps, with the wrong valve caps, or with valve caps that are not
properly screwed on can damage the tire valves and the sensors on the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System. To help prevent damage, always use valve stem caps like those originally
installed at the factory. The caps must be screwed on tightly. Do not use metal valve caps or
“comfort” valve stem caps.

Underinflation increases fuel consumption.

Pressures measured with a gauge when inflating the tires may be different from the pressures
read by the tire pressure sensors. The electronic TPMS is more accurate.

When the TPMS warns that the pressure in at least one tire is too low, check the tire pressure in
all 4 tires with an accurate tire pressure gauge. Low tire pressure usually cannot be spotted by looking
at the tire. This is especially true for low-profile tires. When checking the tire pressures, refer to ⇒ Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Tire inflation pressure in cold tires

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Drive train Tire dimensions Tire pressures

psi kPa bar

Front-wheel drive 215/65 R16 35 240 2.4

 Drive train Tire dimensions Tire pressures

psi kPa bar

235/55 R17 35 240 2.4

235/50 R18 35 240 2.4

255/40 R19 38 260 2.6

T145/80 R185 61 415 4.1

215/65 R16 38 260 2.6

235/55 R17 38 260 2.6

Four-wheel drive (4MOTION) 235/50 R18 38 260 2.6

255/40 R19 41 280 2.8

T145/80 R185 61 415 4.1

xl = reinforced sidewall.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System is configured at the factory with the correct tire inflation
pressure applicable for the vehicle model, engine and factory-installed tires. The tire inflation
pressure is listed on the tire inflation pressure label on the driver door jamb 170. The tire inflation
pressures for the road tires are listed on this label. The inflation pressure for the compact spare is as
specified on the tire pressure label or on a separate label for the compact spare, if there is one. In
the event of a discrepancy between the above figures and the tire pressures listed on the tire
inflation pressure label, the pressures listed on the label are the ones you should use. The Tire
Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated in the appropriate menu in the MFI whenever you
remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or
replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire pressure
does not change.

5
Compact spare wheel
Tread depth and tread wear indicators

Fig. 113 Tread pattern: Wear indicator.

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Tread depth
Most driving situations require as much tread depth as possible and similar tread depth for the tires on
the front and rear wheels. This is especially true when driving in winter weather, at low temperatures
and under wet conditions ⇒ .
In most countries the legally permissible minimum tread depth is 1/16 in. (1.6 mm), as measured in
tread grooves next to the wear indicators. Please be sure to obey country-specific legal requirements.
Winter tires are no longer suitable for winter operation once the tread pattern is worn down to a depth
of 3/16 in. (4.8 mm).
The tread depth of new tires can differ between tire models and manufacturers because of the
different design features and tread patterns.

Tread wear indicator (TWI) in the tire

The 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) high wear indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread grooves of the
original tires running across the treads ⇒ fig. 113. Several wear indicators are evenly spaced around
the tire. Markings on the sides of the tires (for example “TWI” or symbols) show the position of the
wear indicators.
Wear indicators show when the tires are worn down. The tires must be replaced no later than when
the tread pattern is worn down to the wear indicators.

WARNING
Worn tires are dangerous and can cause loss of vehicle control including serious personal
injuries.
 Never drive a vehicle when the tread on any tire is worn down to the wear indicators,
replace them sooner.
 Worn tires do not grip the road properly, especially on wet roads, increasing your risk of
“hydroplaning” and loss of control.
 Worn tires reduce the ability of your vehicle to handle well in normal and difficult driving
situations and increase braking distances and the risk of skidding.

Tire wear and damage

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Wheel rim and tire damage is often difficult to see. Unusual vibrations or pulling to one-side can be
an indication of tire damage ⇒ .
 If you suspect tire damage, immediately reduce speed!
 Check tires and wheel rims for damage.
 If a tire is damaged, do not drive any farther. Get expert assistance.
 If no external damage is visible, slowly and carefully drive to the nearest authorized Volkswagen
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility or other qualified workshop and have the vehicle
checked.

Objects embedded in the tire

 If embedded objects have penetrated to the inside of the tire, do not remove them! If objects are
stuck in the tread grooves of the tire, they can be removed.
 • With a spare wheel or compact spare wheel: If necessary, change the damaged wheel
⇒ Changing a wheel. If necessary, get professional assistance to change the wheel.
 Check tire pressure and adjust if necessary.

Tire wear
Tire wear depends on several factors, including:
 Driving style.
 Unbalanced wheels.
 Wheel alignment.
Driving style - Fast cornering, hard acceleration and braking increase tire wear. If you experience
increased tire wear under normal driving conditions, have the vehicle suspension checked by an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Unbalanced wheels - The wheels on a new vehicle are balanced. When driving, however, various
conditions can cause a wheel to become unbalanced. Unbalanced wheels can cause wear to the
steering and suspension systems. Have all wheels rebalanced. A wheel must always be rebalanced if
a new tire has been mounted.
Wheel alignment - Incorrect wheel alignment causes excessive and uneven tire wear, impairing
vehicle safety. If you notice excessive or uneven tire wear, have the wheel alignment checked by an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

WARNING
Unusual vibrations or pulling to one side can indicate tire damage.
 Reduce speed immediately and stop when it is safe to do so.
 Check tires and wheel rims for damage.
 Never drive with a damaged tire or rim. Get expert assistance instead.
 If no external damage is visible, slowly and carefully drive to the nearest authorized
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility or other qualified workshop
and have the vehicle checked.
Compact spare wheel

Fig. 114 In the luggage compartment: Compact spare wheel.

Fig. 115 In the luggage compartment: Held in place with a retainer.

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Removing the compact spare wheel

 Open the rear hatch, raise the entire luggage compartment floor, press the retaining pin ⇒ fig. 114
(1) to the right and slowly lower the luggage compartment floor.
 If applicable: Remove the Fender premium audio subwoofer ⇒ Removing Fender Premium Audio
subwoofer.
 Completely unscrew the threaded retainer in the center of the compact spare wheel (2)
counterclockwise and remove the compact spare wheel .

Stowing the replaced wheel

One of the vehicles normal wheels will not fit in the well for the compact spare wheel in the floor of the
luggage compartment. Therefore, in the event of a flat tire, the wheel which was changed must be
secured, for example, with suitable straps in the luggage compartment.
Open the rear hatch, raise the entire luggage compartment floor, press the retaining pin (1) to the right
and slowly lower the luggage compartment floor.
Put the wheel you took off the vehicle into the spare wheel well so that the center hole of the rim is
aligned with the threaded pin.
Turn the threaded retainer in the center of the compact spare wheel (2) clockwise until the wheel
replaced is securely in place.
If necessary, return the vehicle tool kit to its location in the luggage compartment.
Raise the floor covering and release the retaining pin, then fold the floor covering back down onto the
floor of the luggage compartment.
Close the rear hatch.

Differences between the road tires and the compact spare

The compact spare is different in design from the road tires and must be used only in the event of a
flat tire, only for a brief time, and only when driving with extra caution ⇒ .
Replace it with a tire matching the others on your vehicle as soon as possible.
Please heed the following:
 Do not drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h)!
 Avoid full-throttle acceleration, hard braking and fast cornering!
 Do not use snow chains on the compact spare wheel ⇒ Snow chains.
 After installing the compact spare tire, check the tire pressure as soon as possible ⇒ Tire inflation
pressure.
Check the tire inflation pressure of the compact spare whenever you check the tire pressure of the
road wheels, at least once a month. Inflate a compact spare tire to the cold tire pressure specified for
the compact spare on the tire pressure label or on a separate label for the compact spare, if there is
one.
 WARNING
Improper use of a compact spare tire can cause loss of vehicle control, a crash or other
accident, and serious personal injury.
 Never use a compact spare tire if it is damaged or worn down to the wear indicators.
 In some vehicles, the compact spare tire is smaller than the original tire. A smaller
compact spare tire is identified with a sticker and the words “50 mph” or “80 km/h”. This is
the maximum permissible speed when driving with this tire.
 Never drive faster than 50 mph (80 km/h) with a compact spare tire. Avoid full-throttle
acceleration, heavy braking, and fast cornering!
 Never drive more than 125 miles (200 km) if a compact spare wheel is installed on the front
axle (drive axle).
 Replace the compact spare with a normal wheel and tire as soon as possible. Compact
spare tires are designed for brief use only.
 Regularly check the U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) to determine the age of the
compact spare tire ⇒ Tire labeling. Tires age even if they are not being used and can fail
suddenly, especially at higher speeds.
 Tires age even if they are not being used and can fail suddenly, especially at higher
speeds.
 Tires that are more than 6 years old can only be used in an emergency and then with
special care and at low speeds.
 The compact spare tire must always be secured with the wheel bolts provided by the
factory.
 Never drive using more than one compact spare wheel.
 After installing the compact spare tire, the tire pressure must be checked as soon as
possible ⇒ Tire inflation pressure.
 Snow chains cannot be used on the compact wheel tire. If you must use snow chains and
have a compact spare wheel mounted, move the compact spare tire to the rear axle if a front
tire has to be replaced. The tire taken off the rear axle can then be used to replace the flat
front tire. Be sure you do not change the tire's direction of rotation. Install the snow chains
on the full-sized road tire.

NOTICE
When the spare wheel or compact spare is being used, the TPMS indicator light can start
flashing after about 10 minutes.

If possible, attach the compact spare tire or the tire you took off the vehicle securely in the
luggage compartment.
Tire labeling

Fig. 116 International tire labeling.

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Knowing about tire specifications makes it easier to choose the correct replacement tires. Radial tires
have specifications marked on the sidewall.

Tire labeling (example) Meaning

Brand, Logo Manufacturer

Tire name Individual tire designation of the manufacturer.

P255/55 R 18 Dimensions:

P Tire application: Passenger car

255 Nominal sidewall-to-sidewall width of tire in millimeters.

55 Ratio of height to width (aspect ratio)

R Tire belt design letter code for radial.

18 Rim diameter (in inches)

95 H Load rating code and speed rating code

 Tire labeling (example) Meaning

XL Indicates “reinforced” tire (heavy-duty)

M+S or M/S or  Indicates Mud and Snow capability (also M/S)

SSR or DSST, Eufonia, RFT, Manufacturer-dependent labeling for run-flat tires.

ROF, RSC, ZP

RADIAL TUBELESS Tubeless radial tire.

E4 ... Labeling according to international regulations (E) including

number of the approving country. The multi-digit approval number
is listed next.

DOT BT RA TY5 1709 Tire identification number (TIN6 – in some cases only on one side
of the tire – and the manufacturing date:

DOT The tire complies with the requirements of the United

States Department of Transportation, responsible for
issuing safety standards.

BT Identification letter of the manufacturing site.

RA Manufacturer information regarding tire dimensions.

TY5 Tire characteristics provided by the manufacturer.

1709 Manufacturing date: 17th week in 2009.

TWI Marks the position of the tread wear indicator

Made in Germany Country of manufacture.

MAX LOAD 615 KG (1356 LBS) United States maximum load rating per wheel.

MAX INFLATION 350 KPA United States maximum permissible inflation pressure.
(51 PSI)

SIDEWALL 1 PLY RAYON Tire ply composition and materials used:

1 layer of rayon.

TREAD 4 PLIES Tire tread composition and materials used:

1 RAYON + 2 STEEL + In this example there are 4 layers under the tread: 1 layer of
1 NYLON rayon, 2 layers of steel belt and 1 layer of nylon.

Consumer information regarding comparison to specified base tires (standardized test

procedure) 189:

6
TIN represents the serial number of the tire.
Tire labeling (example) Meaning

TREADWEAR 280 Relative service life expectancy of the tire referenced to a US-
specific standard test.

TRACTION AA Traction rating under wet conditions (AA, A, B or C).

TEMPERATURE A Temperature stability of the tire at increased test bench speeds

(A, B or C).

Additional numbers found on the tire could either be tire manufacturer internal labels or
country-specific labels (e.g. for Brazil and China).

Unidirectional tires
Unidirectional tires are designed to rotate only in one direction. Unidirectional tires have arrows on the
sidewalls that show the direction of rotation. Make sure you mount the tire so that it rotates in the
proper direction. The tire's performance with regard to hydroplaning, traction, noise, and wear is worse
if it is not mounted in the proper direction of rotation.
If you have to mount a tire opposite to its proper direction of rotation, you must drive more carefully,
since the tire is no longer being used as designed. This is particularly important on wet roads. You
must replace or remount the tire as soon as possible in order to restore the correct direction of
rotation.

Load rating code

The load index indicates the maximum permissible load per individual tire in pounds (kilograms).
91 1356 lbs (615 kg)
93 1433 lbs (650 kg)
95 1521 lbs (690 kg)
97 1609 lbs (730 kg)
98 1653 lbs (750 kg)
99 1709 lbs (775 kg)
100 1763 lbs (800 kg)
101 1819 Ibs (825 kg)
102 1874 lbs (850 kg)
103 1929 lbs (875 kg)
104 1984 lbs (900 kg)
110 2337 lbs (1060 kg)

Speed rating code letter

The speed rating code letter indicates the maximum permissible road speed of the tires.
P up to 93 mph (150 km/h)
Q up to 99 mph (160 km/h)
R up to 105 mph (170 km/h)
S up to 111 mph (180 km/h)
T up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
U up to 124 mph (200 km/h)
H up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
Z over 149 mph (240 km/h)
W up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
Some tire manufacturers label tires with a maximum permissible road speed above 149 mph
(240 km/h) with the letter combination “ZR”.

WARNING
Using incorrect or unmatched tires and/or wheels or improper tire and wheel combinations
can lead to loss of control, collision and serious personal injury.
 Always use tires, wheels and wheel bolts that meet the specifications of the original
factory-installed tires or other combinations that have been specifically approved by the
vehicle manufacturer.
 All 4 wheels must be fitted with radial tires of the same type, the same size (tread
circumference), and the same tread pattern. Driving with different tires reduces vehicle
handling and can lead to a loss of control.
 Never drive faster than the maximum speed for which the tires installed on your vehicle
are rated because tires that are driven faster than their rated speed can fail suddenly.
 Overloading tires can cause heat buildup, sudden tire failure, including a blowout and
sudden deflation and loss of control.
 Temperature grades apply to tires that are properly inflated and not over- or underinflated.

Winter tires
 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Winter tires improve the handling characteristics of your vehicle significantly when driving under wintry
road conditions. Summer tires have less traction on snow and ice because of their design (width,
rubber composition, tread design). Volkswagen strongly recommends that you always have winter
tires or all-season tires installed on all 4 wheels on your vehicle, especially when winter road
conditions are expected. Winter tires also improve the vehicle's braking performance and help reduce
stopping distances during winter weather. Volkswagen recommends installing winter tires once
temperatures are below +45 °F (+7 °C).
Winter tires are no longer suitable for winter driving once the tread pattern is worn down to a depth of
3/16 in (4.8 mm). In addition, winter tire performance decreases with age - independent of the tread
profile depth.

When using winter tires:

 Obey state and country-specific legal requirements.
 Install winter tires on all 4 wheels.
 Use snow tires only under wintry road conditions.
 Only use winter snow tires with dimensions approved for the vehicle.
 Use only winter tires of the same tire belt design, the same dimensions (tread circumference), and
the same tread design.
 Follow speed restrictions according to the winter tire's speed rating code letter ⇒ .
Speed restrictions
Winter tires are certified up to a top speed identified by speed rating code letters on the side wall
⇒ Tire labeling.
In some vehicle models it is possible to set a speed warning in the MFI menu in the instrument cluster
display (Multi-Function Indicator - MFI) ⇒ Volkswagen Information System.
Top speed rating and tire inflation pressure for V winter tires depend on the engine installed in your
vehicle. Be sure to ask you authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility
about the maximum permissible speed and the required tire inflation pressure for the winter tires that
you plan to use.

All-wheel drive (4MOTION)

Vehicles with all-wheel drive and standard road wheels have good forward motion and traction even
under wintery road conditions. However, Volkswagen recommends installing winter tires or all season
tires on all 4 wheels to improve handling as well as braking performance.
If you use snow chains, please read and heed information and directions

WARNING
Driving faster than the maximum speed for which the winter tires on your vehicle were
designed can cause sudden tire failure including a blowout and sudden deflation, loss of
control, crashes and serious personal injuries.
 Winter tires have a maximum speed rating that may be lower than your vehicle's maximum
speed.
 Never drive faster than the maximum speed for which the winter tires installed on your
vehicle are rated because tires that are driven faster than their rated speed can fail suddenly.
 Never exceed the maximum load rating for the winter tires installed on your vehicle.

Install summer tires promptly in the spring. Summer tires offer better handling characteristics for
temperatures above +45 °F (+7 °C). They are quieter, do not wear as quickly, and reduce fuel
consumption.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated using the appropriate menu in the MFI
whenever you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled
or replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire pressure
does not change

If necessary, ask your authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility
about permissible winter tire dimensions.

Snow chains
 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Obey local regulations as well as the applicable speed limits when driving with snow chains.
Snow chains improve forward motion, traction and braking characteristics under wintry conditions.
Snow chains may be used only on the front wheels when driving on roads and highways. This
applies even to all-wheel drive vehicles (4MOTION). Snow chains may be used only in the
following tire and wheel rim combinations:
Tire dimensions Rim

215/65 R16 6 1/2 J x 16 ET 33

215/60 R17 6 1/2 J x 17 ET 33

Please contact your authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility about
appropriate wheel, tire and snow chain dimensions.
If possible, use only chains with low profile links that are not thicker than 37/64 in (15 mm) including
the tensioner.

Remove hubcaps and decorative rim rings before installing snow chains ⇒ . However, for safety
reasons, caps must be installed on the wheel bolts. These are available from authorized Volkswagen
dealers and authorized Volkswagen Service Facilities.

Compact spare
For technical reasons, snow chains cannot be used on the compact spare
If you must use snow chains and have a compact spare tire mounted, move the compact spare wheel
to the rear axle if a front tire has to be replaced. The tire taken off the rear axle can then be used to
replace the flat front tire. Be sure to install the unidirectional tires so that they will run in the proper
direction. Volkswagen recommends installing the snow chains before mounting the wheel to the
vehicle.

WARNING
Using the wrong snow chains or installing snow chains improperly can cause accidents and
severe personal injuries.
 Always use the proper snow chains.
 Follow the installation instructions provided by the snow chain manufacturer.
 Never exceed the permissible speed limit when driving with snow chains.

NOTICE
 Remove snow chains when roads are free of snow. Otherwise, the chains can damage the
tires, impair vehicle handling and can be quickly worn down.
 Snow chains can scratch or damage wheel rims, if they have direct contact with the rims.
Volkswagen recommends using coated snow chains.

Snow chains are available in different sizes for each vehicle model.

Glossary of tire and loading terminology

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Accessory weight
The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic
transmission, electro-mechanical power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio,
and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether
installed or not).
Aspect ratio
The ratio of sidewall height to tire width, expressed as a percentage. A number of 70 (0.7:1 or 70%) or
lower indicates a low-profile tire with a shorter sidewall for improved steering response and better
overall handling on dry pavement.

Bead
The part of a tire made of steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords, with the shape and structure
to ensure proper fit to the wheel rim.

Bead separation
A breakdown of the bond between components in the bead.

Carcass
The tire structure, except tread and sidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears the load.

Chunking
The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall.

Cord
The strands of material forming the plies in the tire.

Cord Separation
The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds.

Cracking
Any parting within the tread, sidewall, or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material.

Cold tire inflation pressure

The tire pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for a tire of a specified size that has not
been driven for more than a couple of miles (kilometers) at low speeds in the 3 hour period before the
tire pressure is measured or adjusted.

Curb weight
The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil,
and coolant, air conditioner, and additional weight of optional equipment.

Extra load tire

A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding
standard tire.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The load-carrying capacity of a single axle system, measured where the tire contacts the ground.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

The maximum loaded weight of the vehicle.

Groove
The space between 2 adjacent tread ribs.

Load rating (code)

The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure. You may not find this
information on all tires because it is not required by law.
Maximum load rating
The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

The total of:
 Curb weight.
 Accessory weight.
 Vehicle capacity weight.
 Production options weight.

Maximum (permissible) inflation pressure

The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated. Also called “maximum inflation
pressure.”

Normal occupant weight

Means 150 lbs (68 kilograms) times the number of occupants seated in the vehicle up to the total
seating capacity of your vehicle.

Occupant distribution
The placement of passengers in a vehicle.

Outer diameter
The diameter of a new, properly inflated tire.

Overall width
Total width measured at the exterior sidewalls of an inflated tire, including the additional width of
labeling, decorations, or protective bands or ribs.

Passenger car tire

A tire intended for use on passenger cars, multipurpose passenger vehicles, and trucks, that have a
gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or less.

Ply
A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords. A parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies.

Ply separation
A parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies.

Pneumatic tire
A mechanical device made of rubber, chemicals, fabric, and steel or other materials, that, when
mounted on an automotive wheel, provides the traction and contains the gas or fluid that sustains the
load.

Production options weight

The combined weight of installed regular production options weighing over 5 lbs (2.3 kg) more then the
standard items they replace, and not previously considered as curb weight or accessory weight. These
include, for example, heavy-duty brakes, ride levelers, heavy-duty battery, and special trim.

Radial ply tires

A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at substantially 90 degrees to
the centerline of the tread.
Recommended inflation pressure
The tire pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for a tire of a specified size that has not
been driven for more than a couple of miles (kilometers) at low speeds in the 3 hour period before the
tire pressure is measured or adjusted.

Reinforced tire
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding
standard tire.

Rim
The outer edge of a wheel upon which the tire beads are seated.

Rim diameter
The nominal diameter of the wheel's tire bead seating surface. If you change your wheel size, to
wheels of a different diameter, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheels.

Rim size
Designation means rim diameter and width.

Rim type designation

The industry or manufacturer's designation for a rim by style or code.

Rim width
The nominal distance between wheel rim flanges.

Section width
The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, excluding elevations due
to labeling decoration, or protective bands.

Sidewall
The portion of a tire between the bead and the tread.

Sidewall separation
The parting of the rubber compound from the cord material in the sidewall.

Speed rating (letter code)

A standardized letter code indicating the maximum speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for
extended periods of time. The ratings range from 93 mph or 150 km/h (“P”) to 186 mph or (300 km/h)
“Y”.

The speed rating letter code, where applicable, is molded on the tire sidewall ⇒ Speed rating code
letter. You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System

A system that detects when at least one of a vehicle's tires is underinflated and illuminates a low tire-
pressure warning light.

Tread
The portion of a tire that normally touches the road.

Tread rib
A tread section running circumferentially around a tire.

Tread separation
Tire failure caused by the tread pulling away from the tire carcass.
Tread wear indicators (TWI)
Raised areas within the main tread grooves that show, visually, when tires are worn and near the end
of their useful life ⇒ Tread depth and tread wear indicators.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG)

A tire information system developed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) that is designed to help buyers compare tires. UTQG is not a safety rating, nor is it a
guarantee that a tire will last for a certain number of miles or perform a certain way. It gives tire buyers
more information to compare with factors such as price, brand loyalty and dealer recommendations.
Under UTQG, tires are graded by the tire manufacturers in 3 areas: tread wear, traction and
temperature resistance. UTQG information is molded into the tire sidewalls.

U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)

A tire's serial number. It begins with the letters “DOT” (“Department of Transportation”) and indicates
that the tire meets all federal standards. The next 2 numbers or letters indicate the plant where the tire
was manufactured. The last 4 numbers represent the week and year of manufacture.
For example, the numbers 1801 mean that the tire was produced in the 18th week of 2001. Any other
numbers are marketing codes used by the tire manufacturer. This information is used to help identify
affected consumers if a tire defect requires a recall.

Vehicle capacity weight

The total rated cargo, luggage and passenger load. Passenger load is 150 lbs (68 kilograms) times the
vehicle's total seating capacity (as listed on the label inside the driver door).

Vehicle maximum load on the tire

The load on an individual tire that is determined by taking each axle's share of the maximum loaded
vehicle weight (GAWR) and dividing by 2.

Vehicle normal load on the tire

The load on an individual tire that is determined by taking each axle's share of the curb weight,
accessory weight, and normal occupant weight (distributed according to the table below) and dividing
by 2.

Wheel size designation

Wheel rim diameter and width.

Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating
capacities

Designated seating capacity, Vehicle normal load, number Occupant distribution in a

number of occupants of occupants normally loaded vehicle

2,3 or 4 2 2 in front

5 3 2 in front, 1 in back

Tires and vehicle load limits

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
There are limits to the load any vehicle or any tire can carry. A vehicle that is overloaded will not
handle well and is more difficult to stop. Overloading can damage important parts of the vehicle.
Overloading can also lead to blowout, sudden loss of pressure or other tire failure that can cause loss
of control.
Your safety and the safety of your passengers depends on making sure that load limits are not
exceeded. Vehicle load includes everybody and everything in and on the vehicle. These load limits are
technically referred to as the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
The GVWR includes the weight of the basic vehicle, all factory-installed and other accessories, a full
tank of fuel, oil, coolant and other fluids plus maximum load. The maximum load includes the number
of passengers that the vehicle is intended to carry (seating capacity) with an assumed weight of
150 lbs (68 kg) for each passenger at a designated seating position and the total weight of any
luggage in the vehicle. If you tow a trailer, the weight of the trailer hitch and the tongue weight of the
loaded trailer must be included as part of the vehicle weight. At altitudes above 3000 ft (1000 m),
combined towing weight (vehicle plus trailer) must be reduced by 10 % for every 3000 ft (1000 m).
The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum load that can be carried at each of the
vehicle's 2 axles (by the front or rear tires). GVWR and GAWR are listed on the safety compliance
label on the driver door jamb. Your vehicle has 5 total seating positions: 2 in the front and 3 in back.
Each seating position has a safety belt. Because there is an upper limit to your vehicle's total weight
(GVWR), the weight of whatever is being carried (including the weight of a trailer hitch and the tongue
weight of the loaded trailer) is also limited. More passengers, or passengers who are heavier than the
assumed 150 lbs (68 kg), mean that less weight can be carried as luggage or other cargo. The tire
pressure label on your Volkswagen also lists the maximum combined weight of all of the occupants
and luggage or other cargo that the vehicle can carry.

WARNING
Overloading a vehicle can cause loss of vehicle control, a crash or other accident, serious
personal injury, and even death.
 Carrying more weight than your vehicle was designed to carry will prevent the vehicle
from handling properly and increase the risk of the loss of vehicle control.
 The brakes on a vehicle that has been overloaded may not be able to stop the vehicle in a
safe distance.
 Tires on a vehicle that has been overloaded can fail suddenly, including a blowout and
sudden deflation, causing loss of control and a crash.
 Always make sure that the total load being transported - including the weight of a trailer
hitch and the tongue weight of a loaded trailer - does not make the vehicle heavier than the
vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

Determining the correct load limit

 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Never overload tires. The following example illustrates how to determine the combined weight of all
vehicle occupants and luggage or other vehicle payloads. Never overload the vehicle!

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit:

1. Locate the statement “THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS AND CARGO SHOULD
NEVER EXCEED XXX KG OR XXX LBS” on your vehicle's placard (tire inflation pressure
label)

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your
vehicle.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit:

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lbs passengers
in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400-750
(5 x 150) = 650 lbs).

5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in
Step 4.

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle.
Consult this Manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage capacity
of your vehicle.

Check the tire sidewall to determine the load index specified for the tire.

UTQG classification
 Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire
sidewall between the tread shoulder and maximum section width. Example:
 Treadwear (number)
 Traction: AA, A, B or C
 Temperature: A, B or C
For example: Treadwear 200, Traction AA Temperature A
All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.

Treadwear
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 (Tread wear-value 150) would wear one-and-one-half (1 1/2) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences
in road characteristics and climate.

Traction
The traction grades from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C. Those grades represent the tire's
ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test
surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance ⇒ .

Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C representing the tire's resistance to the
generation of heat, and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law ⇒ .

WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and
does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation or excessive loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.