EU Tyre Label explained: how to read fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise ratings

At a glance:

• The current EU tyre label grades tyres from A to E for fuel efficiency and wet grip, and A to C for noise.
• Fuel efficiency reflects rolling resistance: an A-rated, efficient tyre uses less energy and can lower fuel consumption.
• Wet grip measures braking performance on a wet road surface: moving up a rating class can shorten stopping distance by 3 metres, according to the EU Tyre Labelling Regulation (EU) 2020/740 framework.
• Noise is shown as a letter class plus an exact decibel value and one to three sound waves.
• Additional icons show whether a tyre is suited to severe snow (3PMSF) or to ice.
• A QR code links to the EPREL database with full information on the tyres you are considering.

What is the EU tyre label?

The EU tyre label is a standardised information panel that every tyre manufacturer must display under the Tyre Labelling Regulation (EU) 2020/740, which replaced the original 2012 scheme in May 2021. The European Commission created it to help consumers compare tyres fairly across the EU market, regardless of brand. Although the UK has left the EU, the label is still widely used here, but the legal position now differs between Great Britain and Northern Ireland (see below), so you may see either version at Point S centres.

The label applies to passenger cars (C1 tyres), van tyres (C2) and truck tyres (C3), covering the vast majority of tyres sold to consumers and fleets. It does not apply to specialist products such as professional off-road tyres, racing tyres or temporary spare wheels.

In Great Britain, the legal label still follows the format kept from the original 2012 rules (Regulation (EC) No 1222/2009): fuel efficiency and wet grip are graded A to G, and noise is shown with one to three sound waves. Northern Ireland follows Regulation (EU) 2020/740, with the A to E and A to C scales described in this guide. Many manufacturers now supply the newer label across the UK, so always check the scale printed on the label in front of you.

How to read a tyre label

Reading a tyre label is straightforward once you know what each section covers. The top half shows the fuel efficiency and wet grip classes, graded A to E. The lower half shows the noise rating, expressed as both a letter class and a decibel figure. Around the edges you may find additional icons for tyres rated for snow or ice, a unique tyre type identifier, and a QR code.

Fuel efficiency rating explained

The fuel efficiency rating reflects a tyre's rolling resistance, the amount of energy lost as the tyre deforms while it rolls. A more efficient tyre needs less energy to keep moving, which reduces fuel consumption on petrol and diesel cars and can help extend range on an EV. Moving from a C-rated tyre to a B-rated tyre, or from B to A, delivers a modest but real saving over the life of a set of tyres, particularly for drivers who cover higher annual mileage.

If you are comparing two otherwise similar models, a fuel efficiency rating of A rather than C is worth factoring into your decision, especially for company cars or high-mileage commuting. Some retailers offer a fuel efficiency calculator to estimate savings, though real-world results always depend on driving style, tyre pressure and vehicle weight.

Wet grip rating: why A vs B matters on UK roads

The wet grip rating measures how quickly a tyre can stop a car on a wet road surface when the brakes are applied hard. Given how much rain the UK sees, this is arguably the most important rating on the whole label. The difference between one wet grip class and the next class down can represent several extra metres of stopping distance, which matters in an emergency stop.

An A-rated tyre will typically achieve the shortest braking distance, while lower classes take progressively longer to stop. Wet grip performance also declines as the tread wears down, so even a tyre with an excellent original rating will lose some of that advantage as it approaches the legal minimum of 1.6 mm.

Noise rating: what does the decibel figure mean?

The noise rating describes the exterior rolling noise your tyres generate, not the noise you hear inside the cabin. It is shown as a letter class from A to C, alongside the exact decibel value.

A noise dB comparison between classes matters more than it first appears: a difference of 3 dB doubles the sound energy produced by the tyre, although most people perceive it as a modest change in loudness. Choosing a quieter, A or B-rated tyre is a simple way to reduce noise levels around your car, particularly in built-up areas.

Snow and ice symbols on new tyres

Beyond the three standard ratings, new tyres may carry additional icons for tyres suited to winter driving. The 3PMSF snow symbol certification, a three-peak mountain with a snowflake moulded into the sidewall of such tyres, confirms the tyre has passed a braking and traction test on compacted snow, tested in accordance with Annex 7 to UNECE Regulation No 117, which accounts for test surface, air temperature, testing vehicle, load and speed.

A separate ice stalagmite icon, based on the ISO standard ISO 19447, shows a tyre has been tested for braking on solid ice. This icon has particular Nordic winter tyre relevance, as it mainly appears on tyres sold in Scandinavia and other regions with genuinely severe winters, rather than typical UK conditions.

The QR code and the EU EPREL database

Every modern tyre label includes a QR code linking to the EU EPREL database, the official European Product Registry for Energy Labelling. Scanning it brings up the full technical data sheet for that exact tyre type identifier, letting you check the ratings and technical details of that exact model before you buy. Point S Tyres are registered on EPREL (see example here) , so consumers can always verify the information on the tyres they are considering.

Choosing the right tyres at Point S UK

Alongside the EU tyre label, it is worth checking the tyre size, load index and speed rating printed on the sidewall to confirm a tyre suits your vehicle. Tyre ratings and the EU label work together to help you make informed decisions, but correct tyre pressure and regular inspections matter just as much for safety and fuel consumption. Our technical team can talk you through fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise ratings for any size, and help you find the right tyres for your car, van or SUV. Visit your local Point S centre  to talk through the label before your next fitting.

Frequently asked questions

Are EU tyre labels accurate?

Yes, ratings come from standardised test methods defined in the regulation, and market surveillance authorities (Trading Standards in the UK) can check manufacturers' claims. However, the label only measures three parameters, so it does not reflect every aspect of tyre performance. Use it alongside expert advice and your vehicle's recommended tyre size for the best result.

How much difference in fuel efficiency is there between A-rated and B-rated tyres?

Choosing A-rated tyres over B-rated tyres reduces rolling resistance, cutting fuel consumption by a small but measurable amount. As a rough guide, the saving is around 0.1 litres of fuel per 100 km, or roughly 1.6 litres per 1,000 miles, lowering running costs and greenhouse gas emissions across the tyre’s lifetime.

Does an A wet grip rating mean the tyres also brake well on dry roads?

Not necessarily. The EU tyre label specifically measures wet braking distances, not dry performance or directional control. While high-scoring tyres generally offer balanced safety, dry grip depends on tread stiffness and rubber compound.

Does the EU tyre labelling regulation apply to retreaded or second-hand tyres?

No. The current Tyre Labelling Regulation applies only to brand-new tyres for passenger cars, vans, and heavy vehicles. Retreaded tyres, part-worn tyres, and second-hand tyres are currently exempt from the labelling scheme, meaning they do not carry standard performance ratings for rolling resistance, wet grip, or exterior rolling noise.

Is the UK tyre label different from the EU tyre label?

It can be. In Great Britain the legal label follows the older format, graded A to G for fuel efficiency and wet grip. Northern Ireland uses the EU label, graded A to E (source: GOV.UK). Many manufacturers now supply the newer label across the UK, so check which scale your label shows before comparing tyres.

Which rating matters most when choosing tyres?

It depends on how you drive. For most UK drivers wet grip is the priority because it affects stopping distance directly. Fuel efficiency matters most for high-mileage driving, and noise mainly affects comfort in built-up areas. Start with the right size and speed rating for your vehicle, then use the label to choose between suitable tyres.

Understanding your EU tyre label takes the guesswork out of buying new tyres. Once you know how to weigh up fuel efficiency, wet grip and noise ratings against your own driving needs, you can choose tyres that keep you safer, quieter and more efficient on every journey. Speak to your local Point S centre for tailored advice before your next fitting.