
23/07/2025
📌 How to Read & Determine Tire Size for Your Vehicle:
With a little explanation, it's easy to understand what all of the letters and numbers mean on your tire's sidewall. The numbers are indicators of the size, type, and performance of the tire.
1. Tire Type:
The letter "P" at the beginning of the "Tire Size" tells us the tire is a P-Metric tire, referring to tires made to certain standards within the United States, intended for Passenger vehicles.
2. Tire Width:
It is the width of the tire measured in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. The first three-digit number in the tire size refers to the tire width. For instance, in a size P215/65 R15 tire, the width is 215 millimeters.
3. Aspect Ratio:
It is the ratio of the height of the tire's cross-section to its width. The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio. For example, in a size P215/65 R15 tire, the 65 means that the height is equal to 65% of the tire's width.
4. Construction:
The letter "R" in a tire size stands for Radial, which means the layers run radially across the tire.
5. Wheel Diameter:
It is the size of the wheel measured from one end to the other. It tells us the size of the wheel that the tire is intended to fit. A size P215/65 R15 tire is made for a wheel with a 15" diameter.
6. Load Index:
Indicates the maximum load that the tire can support when properly inflated. You'll also find the maximum load on the tire sidewall, in both pounds and kilograms.
7. Speed Rating:
Tells you the maximum speed capability of a tire. Often speed ratings are matched to the top speed capability of the vehicle. For example, a tire with an H-speed rating has a maximum speed capability of 130 mph or 210 km/h.
8. DOT Symbol:
The letters "DOT" on the sidewall indicate that the tire complies with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in the United States.