It is important to use the correct wheels and tyres when replacement is necessary.
All four wheels must be fitted with tyres of the same type, size (rolling circumference) and preferably the same tread pattern.
If possible, tyres should be replaced at least in pairs and not individually (i.e. both front tyres or both rear tyres together).
Never use tyres whose actual size exceeds the dimensions of factory-approved tyres.
If you wish to fit the vehicle with non-standard rims or tyres, it is advisable to consult a qualified workshop before purchasing.
The tyres and wheel rims are an essential part of the vehicle's design. The tyres and rims approved by Audi are specially matched to the characteristics of the vehicle and make a major contribution to good roadholding and safe handling WARNING!.
The sizes of the rims and tyres approved for your vehicle are listed in the vehicle's documents (e.g. EC Certificate of Conformity or COC document 1)). The vehicle documents vary depending on the country in which the vehicle is registered.
Understanding the tyre designations makes it easier to choose the correct tyres. The following designations are marked on the tyre sidewall, for example:
215 / 65 R 16 98 V
This contains the following information:
| 215 |
Tyre width in mm |
| 65 |
Height/width ratio in % |
| R |
Letter R for radial |
| 16 |
Rim diameter in inches |
| 98 |
Load rating code |
| V |
Speed rating code letter |
The manufacturing date is also indicated on the tyre sidewall (possibly only on the inner side of the wheel):
DOT ... 2214...
means, for example, that the tyre was produced in the 22nd week of 2014.
Please note that with some types of tyre, the actual tyre size can differ from the nominal size marked on the tyre (for instance 215/65 R 16 98 V), and there may be significant differences in the contours of the tyres, even though the tyres are marked with the same nominal size designation. When replacing the tyres, it is therefore important to make sure that the actual size of the new tyres does not exceed the dimensions of factory-approved tyres.
Failure to observe this requirement can affect the clearance needed for the tyres. This could result in contact between the tyres and suspension components or bodywork. The brake lines could also be damaged and the vehicle's safety could be severely impaired WARNING!. When using tyres with the maximum permitted nominal dimensions, this can also void the vehicle's registration.
If you use tyres that are approved by Audi you can be sure that the actual tyre dimensions will be correct for your vehicle. If you decide to fit a different type of tyre, you must obtain the appropriate manufacturer's certificate from the tyre retailer to confirm that the tyres are suitable for your vehicle. Keep this certificate in a safe place.
A qualified workshop will be able to advise you on which tyres may be fitted to your vehicle.
On vehicles with four-wheel drive*, all four tyres must always be fitted with tyres of the same type, make and tread pattern, as otherwise the driveline can be damaged by continuous variations in the wheel speeds. For the same reason, only use a spare wheel with the same tyre dimensions as the normal road wheels.
If the spare tyre is not the same as the tyres that are mounted on the car (for example if the car has winter tyres or wide-section tyres) you should only use the spare tyre for a short period of time and drive with extra care. Refit the normal road wheel as soon as possible.
It is best to have all servicing of wheels and tyres performed by a qualified workshop. They have the necessary special tools and replacement parts, trained personnel and facilities for disposing of the old tyres.
- It is very important to ensure that the tyres you have chosen have adequate clearance. When selecting replacement tyres, do not rely entirely on the nominal tyre size marked on the tyre; with some makes of tyre the effective tyre size can differ significantly from the nominal dimensions, even though the tyres have the same size designation. Inadequate tyre clearance can result in damage to the tyres or the vehicle, causing a serious safety risk. It may also invalidate the vehicle's type approval for use on public roads.
- Avoid running the car on tyres that are more than 6 years old. If you have no alternative, you should drive slowly and with extra care at all times.
- The use of run-flat tyres on your vehicle is NOT authorised! Unauthorised use can cause an accident or damage your vehicle.
For the sake of the environment
Old tyres must be disposed of according to the laws in the country concerned.
Note
- Tyres with the marking "AO" or "RO" are specially matched to your Audi. We recommend that you use these tyres only. When used as intended, they meet the highest standards in safety and vehicle handling. Your specialist retailer will be glad to provide more information.
- Never mount used tyres if you are not sure of their previous history.
- For technical reasons it is not normally possible to use wheel rims from other vehicles. In some cases this also applies to rims from other vehicles of the same model.
1) COC = certificate of conformity