How Tyre Labels Work — EU Ratings

Reading the EU tyre label — the quick answer

The EU tyre label rates three things on an A-to-E scale: fuel efficiency (rolling resistance), wet grip (braking distance) and external noise. Wet grip is the one that matters most for safety — the gap between an A and an E tyre can be several car lengths in an emergency stop. Fuel efficiency saves real money over the tyre’s life. How to read and weigh each rating is below.

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Since the label was first introduced in 2012 and updated significantly in 2021, it has become a standard part of tyre purchasing decisions across Europe. Understanding what the ratings mean, how they are measured, and how to weigh them against each other helps you choose the best tyres for your specific needs, potentially saving hundreds of euros in fuel costs and providing crucial safety benefits over the life of the tyres.

The Three Rating Categories

Fuel Efficiency

The fuel efficiency rating measures the tyre rolling resistance, which is the energy lost as the tyre rolls along the road surface. This energy loss directly affects fuel consumption. The rating scale runs from A (best, lowest rolling resistance) to E (worst, highest rolling resistance).

The practical difference between an A-rated and an E-rated tyre is significant. For a typical family car, A-rated tyres can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 0.5 litres per 100 km compared to E-rated tyres. Over the typical life of a set of tyres (40,000 km), this can save approximately EUR 300 to EUR 400 in fuel costs at current prices.

The fuel efficiency rating is particularly important for high-mileage drivers, fleet operators, and anyone concerned about running costs and CO2 emissions. A set of four A-rated tyres on a vehicle covering 20,000 km per year can reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 300 kg compared to E-rated alternatives.

Wet Grip

The wet grip rating indicates how well the tyre performs during braking on a wet road surface. This is arguably the most important safety characteristic on the label. The scale runs from A (shortest wet braking distance) to E (longest wet braking distance).

The difference between an A-rated and an E-rated tyre in wet braking from 80 km/h is approximately 18 metres, which is roughly 4 to 5 car lengths. In an emergency stop, this distance can be the difference between stopping safely and a collision. The wet grip rating should be the primary consideration for any driver who regularly encounters rain.

For a deeper understanding of wet weather driving and how tyre condition affects safety, see our driving in rain safety guide.

External Rolling Noise

The noise rating shows the external noise level produced by the tyre, measured in decibels. This is the noise heard outside the vehicle and is relevant for environmental noise pollution. It does not directly correspond to the noise level experienced inside the cabin, though lower external noise often correlates with a quieter interior experience.

The noise level is displayed as a dB value alongside a classification using one, two, or three sound wave symbols. One wave indicates the tyre is at least 3 dB below the EU limit. Two waves means it meets or slightly exceeds the future lower limit. Three waves means it is at the current maximum allowed level.

For most drivers, the noise rating is the least important of the three but can be a tiebreaker between otherwise similar tyres, especially for luxury vehicles or if you drive frequently on motorways where tyre noise is prominent.

The 2021 Label Update

The EU tyre label was significantly updated on 1 May 2021 with several important changes that improved the system. The rating scale was rescaled from A-G to A-E, removing the largely empty F and G categories and creating clearer differentiation between products.

A QR code was added that links to the product entry in the EPREL (European Product Registry for Energy Labelling) database, providing additional technical information. Two new optional icons were added for snow grip (the 3PMSF snowflake symbol) and ice grip, relevant for winter and all-season tyres.

The snow grip icon appears on tyres that have passed the snow braking test defined in UN Regulation 117. The ice grip icon appears on tyres that have passed a specific ice braking test and is particularly relevant for Nordic markets where ice conditions are common. Not all winter tyres carry both icons so checking the label helps identify the most capable tyres for severe winter conditions. Our winter tyre guide explains these markings in detail.

How the Ratings Are Measured

Each rating on the EU tyre label is derived from standardised tests to ensure fair comparison between products.

Fuel efficiency is measured through the ISO 28580 rolling resistance test, where the tyre is loaded and run on a test drum at a controlled speed and the energy loss is measured. The result is expressed as a rolling resistance coefficient.

Wet grip is measured through the UN Regulation 117 wet braking test, where a vehicle equipped with the test tyres brakes on a standardised wet surface from 80 km/h. The deceleration rate determines the rating. The test is performed at controlled water depth and temperature.

Noise is measured by a drive-by test where the vehicle coasts past a microphone at 80 km/h with the engine switched off. The measured sound pressure level in decibels determines the classification.

These tests are performed by the tyre manufacturer under controlled laboratory conditions. While real-world performance will vary based on vehicle weight, driving style, road surface, and temperature, the standardised tests provide a reliable basis for comparing different tyres.

How to Use the Label When Buying Tyres

When shopping for tyres, consider which rating matters most for your driving conditions and priorities. Safety-focused drivers should prioritise the wet grip rating, choosing A or B-rated tyres wherever possible. High-mileage drivers should prioritise fuel efficiency to reduce running costs. Drivers in urban areas might pay more attention to the noise rating.

The ideal tyre would be A-rated in all three categories, but in practice there are trade-offs. A very low rolling resistance tyre may use a harder rubber compound that reduces wet grip slightly. A tyre optimised for wet grip may use a softer compound that increases rolling resistance. Understanding these trade-offs helps you make an informed choice rather than chasing perfection in a single category.

For a practical approach, look for tyres rated A or B in wet grip (safety first), then choose the best fuel efficiency rating available among those options, and use noise as a tiebreaker. This strategy ensures safety is prioritised while still capturing fuel economy benefits.

Label Ratings and Price

There is a correlation between label ratings and price, but it is not as strong as you might expect. Premium tyre brands generally achieve better label ratings because they invest more in compound development and design optimisation. However, some mid-range brands also achieve excellent ratings at lower prices.

The additional cost of a premium A-rated tyre often pays for itself through fuel savings and reduced brake wear from better grip. A set of four A-rated tyres that cost EUR 200 more than E-rated alternatives can save EUR 300 or more in fuel over their lifetime, making them cheaper overall.

Limitations of the EU Tyre Label

While the EU tyre label is a valuable comparison tool, it does not capture every aspect of tyre performance. Dry braking and handling, cornering stability, aquaplaning resistance, tread life, ride comfort, and winter performance on dry cold surfaces are not represented.

This means that two tyres with identical label ratings may perform quite differently in real-world driving. Independent tyre tests conducted by organisations such as ADAC in Germany, TCS in Switzerland, and Which in the United Kingdom evaluate these additional characteristics and provide a more complete picture.

The label also does not account for tyre degradation over time. A new tyre may achieve an A in wet grip, but as it wears toward the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, its actual wet grip performance may drop to C or D levels. Our guide on tyre age and replacement covers the impact of wear and age on performance.

Tyre Labels Outside the EU

Several countries have adopted tyre labelling systems inspired by the EU model. South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil all have tyre labelling schemes with similar categories. The ratings and test methods may differ slightly but the principle of providing standardised consumer information is the same.

In the United States, the NHTSA manages the UTQG (Uniform Tyre Quality Grading) system which rates treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. While different from the EU system, it serves a similar consumer information purpose.

For drivers buying tyres in different markets, understanding the local labelling system helps make informed purchasing decisions. Our tyre law guides for individual countries such as Germany tyre laws and United Kingdom tyre laws include information on local labelling requirements.

How Labels Relate to Other Tyre Specifications

The EU tyre label complements rather than replaces other tyre specifications. The tyre size markings tell you whether the tyre fits your vehicle. The load index confirms it can carry your vehicle weight. The speed rating ensures it is safe at your driving speeds. The EU label then helps you choose among tyres that all meet your size, load, and speed requirements.

Use the label as one factor in your purchase decision alongside brand reputation, independent test results, warranty terms, and price. Together these factors help you select the best tyre for your specific vehicle, driving conditions, and budget.

Conclusion

The EU tyre label is a powerful tool for making informed tyre purchasing decisions. Understanding the fuel efficiency, wet grip, and noise ratings allows you to choose tyres that save money, improve safety, and reduce noise pollution. Prioritise wet grip for safety, consider fuel efficiency for running costs, and use the QR code to access additional information in the EPREL database. Combined with knowledge of tyre sizes, pressure maintenance, and regular rotation, the EU tyre label helps you get the maximum performance, safety, and value from every set of tyres you buy.