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.