On this page
What does the letter C in the tyre size mean?
The letter C after the rim diameter, for example in 215/65 R16C, indicates a tyre for light commercial vehicles, designed to carry heavier loads than a car tyre of the same size. These tyres often show two load indices separated by a slash, for example 109/107: the first refers to single fitment, the second to twin fitment.
To read all the codes, see the guide on how to read the tyre size.
Why is the load index so important on a van?
The load index indicates the maximum weight the tyre can carry at the specified pressure. On a van, which is often driven loaded, a tyre with a lower index than the approved one risks overheating and failing. That's why:
- a replacement tyre must have a load index and speed rating at least equal to those listed in the vehicle registration document;
- don't fit a car tyre in place of a C-marked one;
- stick to the pressures specified by the manufacturer, which may vary according to the load.
What should you do about the load on board?
The load on board affects both safety and the job. A full van weighs a great deal more and needs to be lifted with suitable equipment. When you call, tell us:
- whether the van is loaded and, roughly, how heavily;
- whether the spare wheel is under the floor or inside the load area;
- whether the load is blocking access to the spare or the tools.
Don't move the load on the road if that exposes you to traffic: we'll talk it through together on the phone.
How do we reduce your downtime?
For anyone who works with a van, downtime is the real cost of a puncture: missed deliveries, building sites left waiting, customers to notify. We come out straight away to wherever the vehicle is and get you back on the road in no time: you avoid a tow truck or driving to a garage on a flat tyre.
- if the damage is a small hole in the tread, we assess an on-the-spot repair;
- otherwise we go ahead with a wheel change using the van's spare;
- replacement with a new tyre needs to be checked on the phone based on size and availability.
If you manage several vehicles, see our assistance for fleets and businesses: as well as 24/7 assistance, by appointment we do tyre changes and seasonal changeovers at your company's premises, without taking the vans to a garage.
Where do we work on vans?
We work on vans on the road, during deliveries, in courtyards, at warehouses, in company car parks and near building sites, as long as there's room to work safely. If you're stopped in a loading bay or double-parked, switch on your hazard lights and let us know. We cover Milan, the surrounding area and the neighbouring provinces: for the specifics of each area, see the areas we cover.
What damage is most common on van tyres?
Vans working in the city and on building sites are particularly exposed to:
- nails, screws and debris picked up on building sites;
- hitting kerbs while manoeuvring for deliveries;
- pressure too low for the load, which wears and overheats the tyre;
- cuts caused by building materials or sharp edges.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fit a car tyre on a van in an emergency?
No, that isn't a proper solution. The tyre must at least meet the load index and speed rating listed in the van's registration document. A car tyre without the C marking generally can't carry the same loads. Use the vehicle's spare wheel and call SOS Tyre.
What do two load indices such as 109/107 mean?
On commercial vehicle tyres, the first number indicates the load capacity in single fitment, the second in twin fitment, i.e. two wheels side by side on the same side of the axle. Both values must be consistent with what is listed in the vehicle registration document.
The van's spare wheel is under the floor: how do I release it?
On many vans the spare hangs under the floor and is lowered with a winch mechanism, operated with an on-board tool. The exact procedure is described in the owner's manual. If the mechanism is stuck or rusted, let SOS Tyre know on +39 377 326 0999.
Do I need to unload the van before the job?
It's usually not necessary to unload the van, but the weight of the load must be taken into account when deciding how to lift the vehicle safely. Tell us on the phone how heavily loaded it is and whether the load is blocking access to the spare wheel: we'll decide together whether anything needs moving.