How to Read Tire Model Specifications?
3 Answers
Here is an introduction on how to read tire specifications: 1. The numbers are in millimeters, representing the section width and the aspect ratio as a percentage. This is followed by: the tire type code, rim diameter (in inches), load index (permissible load capacity code), and permissible speed code. 2. For example, if the tire specification is 195/55/R16-85V. 195 refers to the tire width of 195mm; 55 refers to the aspect ratio, meaning the section height is 55% of the width; R indicates that the tire is a radial tire (the inner layer of this tire is made using the radial tire manufacturing method); 15 refers to the rim diameter of 15 inches; 85 refers to the load index, where 85 represents a maximum load capacity of 515 kg, and four tires would be 515×4=2060 kg; V indicates a speed rating of 240 km/h.
I previously learned how to read tire specifications by checking the sidewall of the tire. There's a long string of letters and numbers printed there, commonly seen in combinations like P225/65R17. The 'P' stands for passenger vehicle tire, '225' is the tire width in millimeters, '65' represents the aspect ratio meaning the height is 65% of the width, 'R' indicates radial construction, and '17' is the rim diameter in inches. There's also a small suffix like 91H, where '91' is the load index representing maximum load capacity, and 'H' is the speed rating indicating a safe maximum speed of 210 km/h. This information is crucial because incorrect tire sizes during replacement can make the car unstable or increase fuel consumption, and also affect braking safety. Every time I wash my car or during maintenance, I make it a habit to squat down and carefully inspect the sidewall, wiping it clean with a cloth for better visibility, and I always remember to record the details for future reference.
Checking tire specs is super easy and cool! Just look at the sidewall where there's a code-like imprint such as LT235/75R15. Let me break it down: LT stands for Light Truck type, 235mm width, 75 aspect ratio indicates reasonable height proportion, R denotes radial construction durability, and 15-inch rim size. Want more? These specs affect overall performance - off-road tires with thicker 75% aspect ratios handle rough terrain, while sports car tires with low 35% ratios accelerate faster but ride stiffer. Don't just focus on numbers - speed symbols like V (240km/h) matter to avoid high-speed blowouts. Before heading to the shop, glance at your tires yourself - it's more fun when you know what's up.
