Examining the Numbers and Letters on the Tire

Why It Matters?

Examining the Numbers and Letters on the Tire: Why It Matters?

Tire Information: How Do You Make the Right Choice for Your Vehicle?

Many drivers overlook the numbers and letters on a car tire. However, these markings are crucial for understanding the tire's characteristics and proper usage. With this guide, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of these markings and learn how to choose the right tire for your vehicle.

The Meaning of Numbers on the Tire: A Detailed Look

When you see a label like "195/65 R 15 91H" on a tire, you should know that each part of this code provides important information about the tire.

  • 195: This indicates the tire's width in millimeters.

  • 65: Represents the percentage ratio of the sidewall height to the tire's width.

  • R: Specifies the tire's construction type; here, 'R' indicates a radial construction.

  • 15: Refers to the inner diameter of the tire, also known as the rim size, measured in inches.

  • 91: Indicates the load index, which represents the maximum load the tire can carry.

  • H: Denotes the speed rating, indicating the maximum speed the tire can handle.

The Meaning of Letters on the Tire

Letter codes on tires also convey various information:

  • TL (Tubeless): Indicates tubeless tires without inner tubes.

  • TT (Tube-Type): Represents tires with inner tubes.

  • RF (Rein-Force): Signifies reinforced tires.

  • XL (Extra Load): Identifies tires with higher load-carrying capacity.

Additionally, letters can denote speed ratings on tires; for instance, V indicates a speed limit of 240 km/h, while H indicates a speed limit of 210 km/h.

Tire Manufacturing Date: How to Read?

The manufacturing date indicated on the tire helps you determine how "fresh" the tire is. For example, a code like "2721" signifies that the tire was manufactured in the 27th week of 2021.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tire

  • Check Tire Specifications: Select tires based on recommendations in your vehicle's user manual.

  • Tire Pressure: Regularly check and adjust your tire's air pressure according to the recommended values.

  • Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your tires for prolonged longevity and safe use.

Of course, the speed rating and load index you see on the tires indicate how safely the tire can be used at a given speed and load.

Speed Rating

It categorizes tires according to their maximum speed capability. For instance, the letter "V" indicates that the tire is safe for speeds up to 240 km/h."

  • L = 120 km/s

  • M = 130 km/s

  • N = 140 km/s

  • P = 150 km/s

  • Q = 160 km/s

  • R = 170 km/s

  • S = 180 km/s

  • T = 190 km/s

  • U = 200 km/s

  • H = 210 km/s

  • V = 240 km/s

  • Z = 240 km/s and over

  • W = 270 km/s

  • Y = 300 km/s

  • (Y) = 300 km/s and over

Load Index

Indicates the maximum weight the tire can carry in kilograms.

  • 50 = 190 kg

  • 51 = 195 kg

  • 52 = 200 kg

  • 53 = 206 kg

  • 54 = 212 kg

  • 55 = 218 kg

  • 56 = 224 kg

  • 57 = 230 kg

  • 58 = 236 kg

  • 59 = 243 kg

  • 60 = 250 kg

  • 61 = 257 kg

  • 62 = 265 kg

  • 63 = 272 kg

  • 64 = 280 kg

  • 65 = 290 kg

  • 66 = 300 kg

  • 67 = 307 kg

  • 68 = 315 kg

  • 69 = 325 kg

  • 70 = 335 kg

  • 71 = 345 kg

  • 72 = 355 kg

  • 73 = 365 kg

  • 74 = 375 kg

  • 75 = 387 kg

  • 76 = 400 kg

  • 77 = 412 kg

  • 78 = 425 kg

  • 79 = 437 kg

  • 80 = 450 kg

  • 81 = 462 kg

  • 82 = 475 kg

  • 83 = 487 kg

  • 84 = 500 kg

  • 85 = 515 kg

  • 86 = 530 kg

  • 87 = 545 kg

  • 88 = 560 kg

  • 89 = 580 kg

  • 90 = 600 kg

  • 91 = 615 kg

  • 92 = 630 kg

  • 93 = 650 kg

  • 94 = 670 kg

  • 95 = 690 kg

  • 96 = 710 kg

  • 97 = 730 kg

  • 98 = 750 kg

  • 99 = 775 kg

  • 100 = 800 kg

  • 101 = 825 kg

  • 102 = 850 kg

  • 103 = 875 kg

  • 104 = 900 kg

  • 105 = 925 kg

  • 106 = 950 kg

  • 107 = 975 kg

  • 108 = 1000 kg

  • 109 = 1030 kg

  • 110 = 1060 kg

  • 111 = 1090 kg

  • 112 = 1120 kg

  • 113 = 1150 kg

  • 114 = 1180 kg

  • 115 = 1215 kg

  • 116 = 1250 kg

  • 117 = 1285 kg

  • 118 = 1320 kg

  • 119 = 1360 kg

  • 120 = 1400 kg

  • 121 = 1450 kg

  • 122 = 1500 kg

  • 123 = 1550 kg

  • 124 = 1600 kg

  • 125 = 1650 kg

  • 126 = 1700 kg

  • 127 = 1750 kg

  • 128 = 1800 kg

  • 129 = 1850 kg

  • 130 = 1900 kg

In conclusion, tire selection should not be based solely on appearance or price. The numbers and letters on the tire provide detailed insights into the tire's characteristics and how it should be used. This information enables you to choose the most suitable tire for your vehicle and ensures a safe driving experience.