Summary:
Diversity isn’t just about people—it’s also on our roads, with a wide range of vehicles that all share one common need: tires. To make informed decisions when replacing or upgrading tires, it’s important to understand how to read the tire markings on your vehicle.
A tire’s sidewall is labeled with a code like “225/70 R16 91S.” Though it may seem complicated, it’s actually a clear breakdown of key tire specifications. The first two numbers represent the tire’s width in millimeters (e.g., 225) and the aspect ratio (e.g., 70), which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. These values influence the tire’s profile and handling characteristics.
The letter “R” refers to the tire’s construction—most commonly radial. Following this is a number (e.g., 16) indicating the diameter of the wheel in inches. This is critical for matching tires to your vehicle’s wheels.
The final part of the code is the load index and speed rating (e.g., 91S). The load index tells you how much weight each tire can safely support, and the speed rating (like “S” or “Y”) tells you the maximum safe speed the tire can handle. For example, a tire labeled “101Y” can support a specific weight and is rated for speeds up to 186 mph.
Understanding this code is a basic but important skill for every driver. It ensures that you purchase the right tires for your car’s specifications, driving needs, and safety. With just a little knowledge, the alphanumeric code on your tire becomes a helpful tool instead of an intimidating mystery.
For detailed speed ratings and load capacities, refer to a standardized tire rating chart.
Motor Biscuit
Read the Full Article
