How to Identify Car Tire Tread Patterns and Models
2 Answers
Methods for identifying car tire tread patterns and models: Most tire model markings appear as 215/70R15, where 215 indicates the tire section width in millimeters; 70 is the aspect ratio, representing the percentage of the tire sidewall height to the tire section width (70 means 70%); R denotes a radial tire structure; and 15 is the rim diameter in inches. The tire tread is the part of the tire that directly contacts the road surface, supporting the vehicle. The tire not only bears the load and rolls but also generates friction through its tread blocks against the road surface, serving as the source of power for vehicle propulsion, braking, and steering.
When I was researching tires on my own, I found that the tread pattern model is located within the long string of letters on the tire sidewall. If you squat down and look at the sidewall, you'll spot prominent English words like 'Primacy 4' or 'Pilot Sport 5'—these are the specific names of the tread patterns. For example, Michelin's 'Primacy' series focuses on quietness, while the 'Pilot' series leans towards sporty performance. I've compared tires on different cars and noticed that the model names are usually printed near the size specifications (like 215/55R17), either before or after, and the font size is much larger than the production date. When you need to replace a tire, just note down this English name, and the auto repair shop can find an exact match. I remember last time when I was getting a tire repaired, the mechanic taught me to clean the sidewall lettering with a wet cloth for better visibility.
