Choice of tires for Škoda Kodiaq - a task that requires attention to detail. This Czech crossover, combining a spacious interior and off-road ambitions, places special demands on its tires. Incorrect selection can lead not only to worse handling, but also to premature wear of the suspension. In this article we will look at official tire sizes for all Kodiaq modifications, we will analyze the best models of summer and winter tires, and also reveal the nuances that are kept silent in showrooms.
Feature Kodiaq — its weight (from 1.7 to 2.1 tons depending on the configuration) and all-wheel drive 4×4 in top versions. This means that the tires must withstand increased loads, provide good grip on wet roads and not “float” during sudden maneuvers. And also - the manufacturer allows the use of tires with different load indexes on the front and rear axles (for example, 103/105), which often raises questions among owners.
Official tire sizes for the Škoda Kodiaq by year and trim level
Tire sizes for Kodiaq depend on the year of manufacture, type of drive and wheel diameter. Basic versions with motors 1.5 TSI (150 hp) and 2.0 TDI (150/190 hp) are usually equipped with 17- or 18-inch wheels, while Kodiaq RS with 245 hp 2.0 TSI requires low-profile tires on 19-20" wheels.
In the table below - tire sizes recommended by Škoda for all modifications (including 2021 facelift). Please note: for versions with 4×4 It is allowed to install tires with a higher load index on the rear axle.
| Modification | Disc diameter | Tire size | Load/Speed Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kodiaq 1.5 TSI (2WD) | 17" | 215/65 R17 | 103H / 103T | Basic equipment Active/Ambition |
| Kodiaq 2.0 TDI (4×4) | 18" | 235/55 R18 | 104V (front) / 107V (rear) | Asymmetry of indices is allowed |
| Kodiaq RS (2.0 TSI 245 hp) | 19"-20" | 235/50 R19 or 255/45 R20 | 105Y / 109Y | Only low profile tires |
| Kodiaq Scout (2.0 TDI 190 hp) | 18"-19" | 235/60 R18 or 235/55 R19 | 106H / 108H | Increased ground clearance |
⚠️ Attention: On versions with 19" and 20" disks prohibited use tires with a speed index lower V (240 km/h), even if you don't plan to drive that fast. This is due to the design of the suspension and the risk of overheating the rubber during long trips at speeds of 160+ km/h.
If you plan to install a custom size (for example, 235/60 R17 instead of 215/65 R17), be sure to check:
- 🔧 Compatible with arches (risk of friction when turning the steering wheel fully)
- 📏 Changing the speedometer readings (a difference of up to 5% is acceptable)
- ⚖️ Suspension load (increasing wheel diameter by 3% accelerates shock absorber wear)
- 17" (standard)
- 18" (most common)
- 19" (Sportline/RS)
- 20" (tuning/RS)
- Other
Summer tires for Kodiaq: top 5 models of 2026 according to ADAC tests
Summer tires for Kodiaq must provide high speed stability (especially for versions RS), good grip on wet roads and low noise levels. Based on test results ADAC 2023-2026, the best models for a crossover are:
- Continental PremiumContact 6 — leader in grip on wet asphalt (rated “excellent” in all disciplines). Suitable for aggressive driving style.
- Michelin Primacy 4+ — optimal balance of price and quality, minimal wear. Recommended for family trips.
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is the best choice for Kodiaq RS thanks to stability at speeds of 200+ km/h.
- Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) — ideal for 19-20" wheels, but noisier than competitors.
- Nokian Wetproof - a budget option with excellent aquaplaning performance.
🔍 Secret from the expert: For Kodiaq with all-wheel drive 4×4 It is critical to choose tires with the same tread on all wheels. A difference in pattern or degree of wear of more than 2 mm may result in breakdown of the center differential (repair cost - from 80,000 rubles).
If you often drive on gravel or dirt roads (for example, to the country), pay attention to models marked M+S (for example, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2). They are allowed for use in summer, but have a higher noise level.
Make sure the speed index is not lower H (210 km/h)|Check the production date (not older than 3 years)|Check for markings 3PMSF only for winter tires|Estimate remaining tread depth (minimum 6 mm for new tires)-->
Winter tires for Kodiaq: studded vs velcro
Choosing winter tires for Škoda Kodiaq depends on the region of operation. In central Russia and southern regions there is enough friction tires (Velcro), while for the North and mountainous regions it is mandatory studded models. The manufacturer recommends the following parameters:
- 🏔️ For snowy regions:
215/65 R17or235/55 R18with spikes (for example, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10) - 🌨️ For cities and temperate climates:
235/60 R18Velcro (Michelin X-Ice Snow or Continental IceContact 3) - ❄️ For extreme conditions (ice, prolonged frosts):
255/45 R20with reinforced frame (Gislaved Nord Frost 200)
⚠️ Attention: On versions Kodiaq RS with 20-inch wheels prohibited use studded tires due to the risk of damage to the discs if they get into holes. In this case In this case, the only option is premium Velcro (for example, Bridgestone Blizzak LM005).
Comparison of studded and friction tires for Kodiaq:
| Parameter | Studded tires | Velcro |
|---|---|---|
| Ice grip | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Handling on snow | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noisiness | High (especially on asphalt) | Low |
| Wear on asphalt | Fast (spikes fly out) | Slow |
| Price | From 8,000 rubles per piece | From 6,500 rubles per piece |
💡 Helpful tip: If you choose Velcro, pay attention to models with technology "Silica Plus" (for example, Hankook Winter i*cept evo3). They retain elasticity at temperatures down to -30°C, which is critical for Kodiaq with its heavy suspension.
What happens if you drive on winter tires in the summer?
Driving for a long time on winter tires at temperatures above +7°C leads to:
- Increased braking distance by 20-30% (tires “float”)
- Damage to the tread (microcracks due to overheating)
- Increased fuel consumption (up to 0.5 l/100 km)
- Risk of tire explosion at high speed (especially for models with a speed index T)
Kodiaq tire pressure: table by size and load
Incorrect tire pressure Škoda Kodiaq - one of the main reasons for premature tire wear and increased fuel consumption. The manufacturer specifies the following standards (for cold tires!):
| Tire size | Front axle (bar) | Rear axle (bar) | Fully loaded |
|---|---|---|---|
215/65 R17 |
2.3 | 2.5 | +0.3 bar on both axes |
235/55 R18 |
2.4 | 2.6 | +0.4 bar to the rear axle |
235/50 R19 (RS) |
2.5 | 2.7 | +0.5 bar to the rear axle |
255/45 R20 (RS) |
2.6 | 2.8 | Check every 500 km |
⚠️ Attention: In version Kodiaq 7-seater (with third row of seats) rear tire pressure should be 0.2 bar higherthan indicated in the table, even without loading. This is due to weight distribution and the risk of rear end sagging.
How to measure pressure correctly:
- Use a pressure gauge with an accuracy of ±0.1 bar (electronic instruments are preferred).
- Check your pressure in the morningwhen the tires are cold (have driven no more than 3 km).
- For Kodiaq with the system
TPMS(pressure control) calibrate the sensors after each pumping. - When changing seasons (summer/winter), check the pressure after 2 weeks - the tires “shrink”.
If you often drive with a trailer, increase the pressure in the rear tires by 0.3-0.4 bar. For Kodiaq with 2.0 TDI and a total trailer weight of 2.5 tons is a prerequisite!
When to change tires on a Kodiaq: signs of wear and replacement timing
Tire life for Škoda Kodiaq depends on driving style, road quality and proper storage. The manufacturer recommends replacement if the following symptoms occur:
- 🚗 Remaining tread depth:
- Summer tires: less 1.6 mm (according to the law), optimally - 3 mm.
- Winter tires: less 4 mm (50% of traction on snow is lost).
- 🔍 Cracks on the sidewalls (especially dangerous for tires over 5 years old).
- 🌀 Uneven wear (for example, a “saw” on the tread is a sign of wheel alignment problems).
- 💥 Swellings ("hernias") - require immediate replacement (risk of explosion).
📅 Replacement dates by season:
- 🍂 For winter tires: at stable temperatures below +7°C (usually October-November).
- ☀️ For summer tires: when the night temperature stops dropping below +5°C (March-April).
⚠️ Attention: On Kodiaq with the system 4×4 Haldex strictly prohibited drive on “bald” tires (tread < 2 mm). This leads to overheating of the all-wheel drive clutch and its failure (repair - from 120,000 rubles).
How to extend the life of tires:
- 🔄 Change the wheels every 10,000 km (pattern: rear → front crosswise).
- 🧹 Regularly wash tires of reagents (they destroy rubber).
- 🏠 Store tires in a dark, dry place (ideally in covers at a temperature of +10...+20°C).
For Kodiaq With all-wheel drive, it is critical to change all 4 tires at the same time. A tread difference of more than 2 mm between axles leads to clutch slippage Haldex and its accelerated wear.
Tuning and non-standard sizes: what is possible and what is not
Many owners Kodiaq want to install wider or larger wheels to improve appearance. However, not all combinations are safe. Here's what's allowed:
| Desire | Valid option | Prohibited option | Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increase diameter | 18" → 19" (with profile adjustment) |
17" → 20" without changing profile |
Speedometer error up to 10%, risk of friction on arches |
| Expand tires | 215 → 235/60 R17 |
215 → 255/55 R17 |
Suspension overload, deterioration in handling |
| Install alloy wheels | Saving ET 45-50 and PCD 5×112 |
Discs with ET 35 (departure) |
Risk of damage to wheel bearings |
🔧 Technical limitations:
- Maximum wheel diameter for Kodiaq without modifications -
20"(for RS —21"with changes in clearance). - The tire width should not exceed
255 mm(otherwise you will need to roll out the arches). - Disc offset (
ET) must be within45-50 mm(for4×4- no less48 mm).
⚠️ Attention: Installation of wheels with parameters not included in Škoda approvals, voids the warranty on the suspension and transmission. In addition, this may lead to denial of insurance coverage in case of an accident.
If you still decide to tune, be sure to:
- Check the wheels for 3D balancing stand (conventional balancing is not suitable for wide tires).
- Adjust the wheel alignment taking into account the new parameters.
- Install pressure sensors
TPMS, if you change the diameter by more than 1".
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about tires for the Škoda Kodiaq
Is it possible to put different tires on the front and rear axles?
For Kodiaq with all-wheel drive 4×4 this is prohibited. Differences in tire tread or model cause clutch slippage Haldex and its breakdown. On front-wheel drive versions, a difference of 1-2 mm in tread is allowed, but only temporarily (for example, in case of a puncture).
Which tires are best for the Kodiaq Scout (all-terrain)?
For Scout tires with markings are optimal M+S and reinforced frame, for example:
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 (for mixed conditions)
- Continental CrossContact LX2 (for asphalt with occasional off-road trips)
- Nokian Outpost AT (for snow and mud)
Avoid aggressive off-road tires (eg. Goodyear Wrangler MT/R) - they are too noisy and wear out quickly on asphalt.
What kind of tread should be on new winter tires for Kodiaq?
For winter tire classes HP (high performance) and SUV minimum tread depth of a new tire - 8-9 mm. This is due to the fact that Kodiaq heavier than passenger cars, and tires wear out faster. For example, at Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 initial depth - 9.5 mm.
What should I do if my Kodiaq brakes worse after changing the tires?
There may be several reasons:
- Incorrect pressure (check with pressure gauge).
- Tires with a lower speed index (e.g.
Tinstead ofH). - Unrolled winter tires (the braking distance increases for the first 500 km).
- Problems with brake pads or calipers (diagnostics required).
If the problem persists, check Tire compatibility with ABS system - some budget models may conflict with electronics Kodiaq.
Can all season tires be used on the Kodiaq?
Technically yes, but with caveats:
- ✅ Suitable for regions with mild winters (temperature not lower than -10°C).
- ❌ Prohibited in countries where winter tires are required by law (eg Finland).
- 🚗 For Kodiaq choose all-season tires with markings
M+Sand3PMSF(for example, Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3). - ⚠️ The service life of all-season tires is 30% less than that of seasonal tires.
In Russia, all-season driving is allowed, but not recommended for regions with frosts below -15°C.