Van Tyres vs Car Tyres



What's The Difference Between Van Tyres & Car Tyres?

It’s key to clarify that smaller vans, especially those based on car platforms, may only require passenger rated tyres – however larger commercial vehicles tend to require specific van tyres. Whilst on the surface van and car tyres appear to be the same, there are several key differences that make them suitable for use on light commercial vehicles and trucks to deal with the demands of being the workhorse of your business:
Goodyear diagram of dual rear wheel van and understanding van tyre markings
  • Tyre Markings – Unlike a passenger rated tyre which may only be required on some smaller vans, a commercial van tyre can be identified as having the letter C after the rim size, and will also have 2 load indexes. E.G. 215/65R16C 109/107 T EFFICIENTGRIP CARGO. The higher load index refers to the amount of weight the tyre can carry if fitted to an axle with 2 wheels. The lower load index if on an axle with 4 wheels:

Weight examples.  215/65R16 98V EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE 2 car tyre = 10.2kg.  215/65R16C 109/107T EFFICIENT GRIP CARGO. = 13,47 kg. The latter if fitted to a normal car may make the suspension feel crashy over bumps and make the ride feel rough and lumpy.

  • Speed Rating –All C marked van tyres are designed to travel at lower speeds that car tyres
  • Heavier Loads – Van tyres are constructed to be able to withstand heavier loads than car tyres due to the nature of the vehicle regularly transporting goods
  • Van tyres tend to be heavier than car tyres – Van tyres are heavier than car tyres due to the structural design requiring more strength to carry heavy loads. Due to this tyre maintenance is just as important for van tyres especially around ensuring optimal tyre pressure in order to maximise fuel efficiency
  • Some car tyres are designed for different surfaces such as track or off road – Van tyres are only designed to be used on the road


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  • Speed Rating –All C marked van tyres are designed to travel at lower speeds that car tyres
  • Heavier Loads – Van tyres are constructed to be able to withstand heavier loads than car tyres due to the nature of the vehicle regularly transporting goods
  • Van tyres tend to be heavier than car tyres – Van tyres are heavier than car tyres due to the structural design requiring more strength to carry heavy loads. Due to this tyre maintenance is just as important for van tyres especially around ensuring optimal tyre pressure in order to maximise fuel efficiency
  • Some car tyres are designed for different surfaces such as track or off road – Van tyres are only designed to be used on the road

Car Tyres

There's much more to learn about car tyres  - read our guide to understanding your tyre.

Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance 2

Go Further with Goodyear: Get up to 50% more mileage* 

Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 tyre winner of the Auto Express 2021 Product Awards
Mileage Plus Technology Logo

High tread elasticity and flexibility results in less fractures caused by rough road conditions (over a wide range of temperatures).

Dry Stability Plus Technology Logo

High tread elasticity and flexibility results in less fractures caused by rough road conditions (over a wide range of temperatures)

Wet Braking Technology Logo

Lower compound stiffness facilitates block bending and wiping out of water. Longer and increased number of gripping edges facilitates water evacuation.



Van Tyres

Want to learn more about how to care for your van tyres and understand the differences vs car tyres? Read our guide to van tyres.

Goodyear EfficientGrip Cargo 2

Go Further with Goodyear: 38% improved durability**



Mileage Plus Technology Logo

High tread elasticity and flexibility results in less fractures caused by rough road conditions (over a wide range of temperatures).

Dry Stability Plus Technology Logo

High tread elasticity and flexibility results in less fractures caused by rough road conditions (over a wide range of temperatures)







What are the Similarities Between Van Tyres and Car Tyres?

Whilst car and van tyres are notably different, there are still many similarities in design and tyre car:

  • Legal Tread Depth – Both car and van tyres have the same legal tread depth of 1.6mm, for some heavier vans this may be different
  • Seasonality – Van and car tyres are available to purchase in summer, winter and all season patterns to suit seasonality and/or driver preference. Due to the changing nature of UK weather many van drivers prefer to have the convenience of all season tyres that are designed to cope in sunshine, showers and wintery conditions – meaning the risk of downtime as weather conditions change
  • Tyre Maintenance – Whether you have a van or a car it’s essential your tyres are well maintained by carrying out the following checks regularly:
  • Check tyre pressures are correct for vehicle and load according to handbook
  • Check your tyre treads regularly and replace at legal limit of 1.6mm
  • Regularly look for signs of wheel misalignment
  • Do not overload your van past manufacturer guidance
  • Rotate your tyres at regular intervals
  • Maintain good driving habits


Can You Fit Car Tyres to Vans or Van Tyres to Cars?

No, it is not advised to fit car tyres to vans or vice versa. Car and van tyres are specifically designed for purpose on the vehicle they are intended for. The right tyres for the right vehicle determine fuel efficiency, rolling resistance, can impact handling and braking – so it is always important to use the right tyres for the right vehicle. Consult your owners handbook to understand which sizes, load indexes and tyres of tyre are approved by the vehicle manufacturer for your van.
Ford Transit van fitted with Goodyear Van Tyres




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