Tyre Approvals
Why You Need Tyre Approval Before Fitting New Tyres
When it’s time to buy new tyres, one of the most common questions drivers ask is:
“Can I fit any tyre to my car as long as it matches the rim size?”
The answer is no. Choosing tyres isn’t only about matching the diameter — it’s also about ensuring that the tyres are approved for your specific vehicle type.
Tyre approval is a legal and safety requirement that ensures your new tyres are compatible with your car’s specifications. It safeguards your vehicle’s performance, stability, and handling, and helps you avoid costly issues or safety risks in the future.
What Is Tyre Approval?
Tyre approval (also known as a clearance certificate) is an official confirmation that a particular tyre model and size can be safely fitted to your vehicle.
Not every tyre is suitable for every car — even if the size looks right. Differences in tyre width, sidewall height, or load capacity can significantly affect braking distance, cornering grip, and ride comfort.
The tyre approval ensures:
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The tyre meets the manufacturer’s performance and safety standards.
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It is suitable for your vehicle’s weight, speed rating, and axle load.
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The tyre maintains the integrity of your car’s chassis and suspension setup.
In short: Tyre approval is your guarantee that the tyres you’re fitting are safe, compliant, and optimised for your vehicle.
Where to Find Tyre Approval Information
You don’t always need to apply for new approval — the relevant information is often already in your vehicle registration documentation or owner’s manual.
In your registration papers, you’ll find a list of approved tyre sizes and rim combinations for your vehicle model. These codes tell you exactly which dimensions are allowed — such as width, aspect ratio, and diameter.
If the tyres you plan to buy are already listed in your documentation, no additional approval is required.
When You Need a Tyre Clearance Certificate
If the new tyre dimensions (for example, width, aspect ratio, or rim size) do not appear in your vehicle’s documentation, you’ll need a clearance certificate before installation.
This certificate can be issued by:
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The vehicle manufacturer
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The tyre manufacturer
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An approved test centre or inspection body
The clearance process confirms that the new tyres won’t compromise your vehicle’s braking, steering, or suspension systems.
How to Obtain Tyre Approval
To make the process faster, your local tyre dealer or test centre will need a few details from your vehicle documentation:
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Vehicle manufacturer and model
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Vehicle class/type
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Date of first registration
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Power output (in kW)
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Top speed
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Front and rear axle loads
Armed with this information, the tyre specialist can confirm which tyres are approved for your vehicle or assist in applying for the necessary clearance certificate.
Why Tyre Approval Matters
Choosing tyres without approval can have serious consequences:
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It may invalidate your insurance or vehicle warranty.
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It can lead to fines or registration issues during inspection.
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Most importantly, it can reduce your vehicle’s safety and stability.
Always ensure your tyres are officially approved before fitting them — it’s essential for your safety and peace of mind.
In Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check your vehicle registration papers for approved tyre sizes. |
| 2 | If your desired tyre size isn’t listed, request a clearance certificate. |
| 3 | Provide your vehicle’s details (manufacturer, model, power, axle loads, etc.) to your tyre dealer. |
| 4 | Only fit tyres that are approved and certified for your vehicle. |
Final Tip
Before purchasing or installing new tyres, consult your local tyre retailer or manufacturer’s representative. They can confirm approval details quickly and help ensure that your new tyres meet all safety and regulatory standards.
Approved tyres mean peace of mind — for your safety, your car, and your wallet.