How to Check Tire Size?
2 Answers
Tire specifications and sizes can be checked as follows: 1. International standard tire specifications are measured in millimeters, with each identifier representing tire width, aspect ratio, tire type, rim diameter, load index, and speed rating. 2. Example: Tire specification 205/55R16-91W. 1. 205 indicates the tire width is 205mm. 2. 55 indicates the percentage of the tire's section height to width is 55%, which is the aspect ratio. 3. "R" stands for the word RADIAL, indicating it is a radial tire. 4. 16 indicates the rim diameter is 16 inches. 5. 91 represents the load index. 6. W indicates the tire's speed rating.
When I first bought a car, I often wondered how to read tire sizes. Actually, it's quite simple. There's a combination of numbers and letters engraved on the sidewall of the tire, such as the common '205/55R16'. This is the standard marking method: the first three digits represent the width (in millimeters), 55 stands for the aspect ratio (height divided by width as a percentage), R indicates the radial tire type, and 16 is the rim diameter (in inches). I personally make it a habit to clean the tire with a cloth when washing the car, carefully checking those markings to avoid dust covering them. The manual or the sticker on the door frame also shows the recommended size. Using the wrong size can affect driving stability and may even shorten tire lifespan, so I check it every quarter during maintenance to prevent sudden issues. When choosing new tires, make sure they match, otherwise braking distance may increase. After developing this habit, I feel more at ease while driving.