Tire numbers on the sidewall provide detailed information about the tire's size, construction, and performance capabilities. Here's what the common tire numbers and letters mean:
- Tire Type : The first letter indicates the type of tire. For example, "P" stands for Passenger vehicle tire, "LT" for Light Truck, and if no letter is present, it usually means a metric or European size tire
- Tire Width : The first number after the letter is the tire's width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. For example, "215" means the tire is 215 mm wide
- Aspect Ratio : The number after the slash ("/") is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire's sidewall expressed as a percentage of the tire's width. For instance, "65" means the sidewall height is 65% of the 215 mm width
- Construction Type : The letter following the aspect ratio indicates the tire construction. "R" means radial construction, which is the most common. Other types include "B" for belted bias and "D" for diagonal bias
- Rim Diameter : The next number is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches that the tire fits, such as "16" meaning a 16-inch rim
- Load Index : A number that indicates the maximum weight the tire can support when properly inflated. For example, "94" corresponds to a specific load capacity
- Speed Rating : A letter following the load index that shows the maximum speed the tire is rated for, such as "H" for 210 km/h (130 mph) or "T" for 190 km/h (118 mph)
- DOT Code : A series of numbers and letters starting with "DOT" that provide manufacturing details, including the plant code, tire size, and the production date (week and year)
Example: Tire Size "P215/65R16 94H"
- P: Passenger tire
- 215: 215 mm width
- 65: Sidewall height is 65% of 215 mm
- R: Radial construction
- 16: Fits 16-inch rim
- 94: Load index (weight capacity)
- H: Speed rating (max speed 210 km/h or 130 mph)
Understanding these numbers helps you select the correct tires for your vehicle's size, load requirements, and driving conditions
