Van tyres are specifically engineered to handle heavier loads and tougher conditions compared to standard car tyres. Most van tyres are reinforced with stronger sidewalls to cope with the additional weight and long-distance journeys that vans typically undertake. You’ll often see markings such as XL (extra load) or RF (reinforced) on the tyre sidewall, which indicate their ability to carry heavier loads. Many tyre centres can fit van tyres, with some also equipped to accommodate long wheelbase or high-roof vans used for commercial purposes.
Every tyre comes with a load rating that shows the maximum weight it can safely carry. For vans, this is particularly important since they often travel with heavy goods or equipment. You can find the load rating on the tyre’s sidewall, but it’s always best to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook for the recommended specification rather than relying on the maximum value shown on the tyre. Because each van and its daily use is different, always check your handbook or ask a professional if unsure about the correct load rating for your tyres.
On average, a new set of van tyres should last around 20,000 miles, while rear tyres may last longer depending on usage. However, tyre lifespan depends heavily on factors like:
To extend tyre life, you can:
Premium van tyres such as the Michelin Agilis CrossClimate are designed for durability and can often achieve significantly higher mileage compared to standard tyres.
Yes — vans usually need commercial tyres, which are marked with a ‘C’ on the sidewall. These tyres are built to carry greater weight than standard passenger car tyres and are better suited to long journeys and heavy loads. Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) in particular should always be fitted with tyres designed for commercial use.
While they may look similar, van tyres and car tyres are not interchangeable. The key difference lies in the sidewall strength. Van tyres have reinforced sidewalls to support heavy loads and frequent use, whereas car tyres are designed mainly for comfort and performance.
For campervans and motorhomes, specialist tyres (such as the Michelin Camping range) are recommended rather than standard van tyres.
No — van tyres should not be used on cars. Although they look similar, van tyres are designed for heavier loads, which means they have stiffer sidewalls and different handling characteristics. This makes them unsuitable for regular cars and could negatively affect performance and safety.
Correct tyre pressure is crucial for safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan.
Always set your van tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which you can find in your vehicle handbook or inside the driver’s door frame. Keeping tyres inflated correctly helps reduce running costs, lowers emissions, and improves overall safety.
