Tyres for vans and commercial vehicles: the answers

The letter C, which follows the rim diameter (for example 225/65 R16 C 112/110 R), indicates a tyre for vans or other commercial vehicles, able to bear higher loads than a passenger car tyre. It is usually followed by a dual load index and the speed code. For your van you need the size and load capacity specified for the vehicle and shown on the registration document.

Sources: michelin.it, michelin.it

It is the load index for two types of fitting: the first number applies to single fitting, the second to twin fitting, that is two tyres side by side on each side of the same axle. Michelin gives the example of 112/110: 1120 kg for each tyre on axles with two tyres and 1060 kg for each tyre on axles with four. The indexes are codes that refer to a load table. Always use indexes suited to what is shown on the registration document.

Sources: michelin.it, goodyear.eu

Start from the size, load index and speed code shown on the registration document, then assess the use: load, distances, type of road and season. Tyres with the C marking are designed for the loads of commercial vehicles; the same size can exist with different load indexes, to be chosen based on the load and the manufacturer's requirements. To compare models the European label is useful, showing efficiency (rolling resistance), wet grip and noise.

Sources: michelin.it, michelin.it, energy-efficient-products.ec.europa.eu

To the pressure given by the vehicle manufacturer, which you find in the owner's manual or on the van's plates, usually on the driver's door or inside the fuel flap. For the same vehicle the recommended pressure changes with the load carried. Check the pressure cold and regularly, on the spare wheel too. Insufficient pressure raises the tyre's temperature and degrades its components.

Sources: michelin.it, professional.michelin.it

Twin wheels are two wheels side by side per side on the same axle, usually the rear. The load is shared across four tyres, which is why the second value of the dual load index counts (for example 112/110: 110 for twin fitting). The two tyres side by side must be kept at the correct pressure and checked as a pair, because if one is flat the other works harder. Also check that no stones or other foreign bodies are stuck between the two.

Sources: michelin.it

For overcab, semi-integrated and motorhome campers Michelin recommends tyres with the CP marking, because a C tyre alone may not be enough. CP tyres have reinforced structure and sidewalls, which limit the stresses due to prolonged standstills, resist abrasion and accidental damage better and bear the high loads, especially in single fitting at the rear. The real weight at full load must not exceed the tyres' capacity. Adjust the pressure according to the manufacturer's indications.

Sources: michelin.it

There is no fixed mileage: on a motorhome, which often stands still, age matters a great deal. In general Michelin recommends a check by a specialist at least once a year from the fifth year of use and precautionary replacement 10 years after the production date shown in the DOT code, even if the tread looks good. The recommendation also applies to the spare wheel. Before the travel season check for cracks, bulges and pressure.

Sources: michelin.it, michelin.it, michelin.it

Yes, manufacturers offer 4-season tyres for commercial vehicles, for example Michelin Agilis CrossClimate. Many carry the 3PMSF marking (three-peak mountain with snowflake), which certifies passing regulatory snow grip tests. They are designed for those who want a single set of tyres all year. For vans with heavy loads choose the size and load index required by the vehicle and consider area and use.

Sources: michelin.it, michelin.it

A regular plan is worthwhile: pressure checks at fixed intervals, inspection of tread and sidewalls, checks of alignment and toe, and a log for each vehicle with DOT date and work done. For commercial vehicles pressure must be adjusted according to load, speed and conditions of use: correct pressure also helps contain consumption. Grouping vehicles by size simplifies purchasing. The European label helps compare efficiency, wet grip and noise.

Sources: professional.michelin.it, energy-efficient-products.ec.europa.eu

It depends on the vehicle and the tyres: the pattern must be chosen based on the type of drive, the manufacturer's indications and the tread pattern. Michelin states that directional and asymmetric tyres are swapped only between front and rear axle on the same side, and that rotation is done if front and rear sizes are the same. With different sizes between axles they are not swapped. After rotation the pressure must be adjusted according to the manufacturer.

Sources: michelin.it