Wheels and tyres169
Controls
Safety
Driving tips
General maintenance
Self-help
Technical data Understanding the tyre designations makes it easier to choose the
correct tyres. For example, radial ply tyres have the following tyre
designations marked on the sidewall:
235 / 35 R 18 91 Y
This contains the following information:
The manufacturing date is also indicated on the tyre sidewall
(possibly only on the inner side of the wheel):
DOT ... 1010...
means, for example, that the tyre was produced in the 10th week of
2010.
Please note that with some types of tyres, the actual tyre size can
differ from the nominal size marked on the tyre (for instance 235/35
R 18 91 Y), 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 the factory-approved makes of tyre.
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 ⇒.
When using tyres with the maximum permitted nominal dimen-
sions, 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 manu-
facturer's certificate from the tyre retailer to confirm that the tyres
are suitable for your vehicle. Keep this certificate in a safe place.
Your local Audi R8 dealer 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 other-
wise 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.
It is not permissible to use a wheel which is of a type different to
those already fitted on the vehicle (for instance when using winter
tyres) - even if you have a puncture.
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.
WARNING
•
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.
235
Tyre width in mm
35
Height/width ratio in %
R
Tyre construction: Radial
18
Rim diameter in inches
91
Load rating code
Y
Speed rating code letter
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