Original Equipment (OE) Tyre Markings – Ensuring Performance & Safety
What Are OE Tyres?
Original Equipment (OE) tyres are specifically designed and approved for a particular vehicle make and model, meeting the manufacturer’s exact performance, safety, and handling standards. These tyres are fitted on new vehicles directly from the assembly line and play a critical role in maintaining the driving dynamics intended by the car manufacturer.
OE-marked tyres enhance handling, braking, ride comfort, and overall performance.
How to Identify OE Tyre Markings
OE markings are engraved on the tyre’s sidewall and vary by vehicle manufacturer. Below is a reference guide for Southern Africa’s leading vehicle brands:
| Manufacturer |
OE Marking(s) |
| Audi |
AO, AO1, AOE |
| Audi Quattro |
RO1, RO2, RO3 |
| Alfa Romeo |
AR |
| Bentley |
B |
| BMW |
* |
| BMW / Mercedes |
*MO |
| BMW / Mercedes Run-flat |
*MOE |
| Ferrari |
K1, K2, K3 |
| Jaguar |
J |
| Lamborghini |
L |
| Land Rover |
LR |
| Land Rover & Jaguar |
JLR |
| Lotus |
LS |
| Maserati |
MGT |
| Maserati & Jaguar |
MGT J |
| McLaren |
MC |
| Mercedes-Benz |
MO, MO1 |
| Mercedes-Benz Run-flat |
MOE |
| Porsche |
N0, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6 |
| Tesla |
T0, T1, T2 |
| Volvo |
VOL |
Not sure if your tyres have OE markings? Visit your nearest Tiger Wheel & Tyre store for expert assistance.
Why Choose OE Tyres?
- Precision Fit – OE tyres are engineered to match your vehicle’s exact specifications
- Enhanced Performance – Designed for optimal grip, handling, and braking
- Comfort & Safety – Ensures a smooth ride while maintaining stability and control
- Manufacturer Approval – Compliant with the original engineering and design standards
Using OE tyres maintains your vehicle’s intended driving characteristics and ensures long-term performance.
Replacing OE Tyres – What You Need to Know
- For best performance, replace all four tyres at the same time. Replacing only one or two tyres can impact handling, braking, and vehicle balance.
- Tread patterns affect driving comfort and control. Choose a tread pattern suited to your driving conditions (e.g., wet grip, quiet ride, off-road traction).
- Always match the correct tyre size, speed rating, and load index to maintain vehicle stability and safety.
Need a replacement? Our experts at Tiger Wheel & Tyre Botswana will help you find the right OE or high-quality alternative tyres for your car.
Tyre Maintenance for Maximum Lifespan
To extend the life of your OE tyres and maintain their performance, remember to:
- Rotate tyres, balance, and align every 8,000 – 10,000 km
- Maintain the correct tyre pressure for fuel efficiency and even wear
- Inspect for damage or uneven wear to avoid premature replacement
Visit Your Nearest Tiger Wheel & Tyre Botswana Store
Our team is here to help you choose, fit, and maintain the right tyres for your vehicle.
