How to Understand Tire Ratings?
4 Answers
For example, if a tire's specification is 205/55/R16-91V:1. 205: refers to the tire width of 205mm. 2. 55: refers to the aspect ratio, meaning the section height is 55% of the width. 3. R: indicates that the tire is a radial tire (the inner layer of this tire is manufactured using the radial method). 4. 16: refers to the rim diameter of 16 inches. 5. 91: refers to the load index of 91, representing that this tire can bear a maximum load of 615 kilograms, and four tires would be 615×4=2460 kilograms. 6. V: indicates a speed rating of 240 kilometers per hour.
I often check the tire specifications myself, simply by looking at the code on the tire sidewall, like 205/55R16. 205 is the width in millimeters, 55 indicates the aspect ratio is 55%, R stands for radial tire construction, and 16 is the rim diameter in inches. Then look for the load and speed symbols, such as 91V. 91 is a number corresponding to the load index, where each number represents the load capacity—you can refer to a table to convert it to the maximum load, for example, 91 is approximately 615 kg. V is the speed rating, with V allowing a maximum speed of 240 km/h. Don’t overlook these details—the vehicle manual has recommended specifications, and matching them ensures safety and fuel efficiency, especially when driving on highways or carrying heavy loads. Otherwise, it’s easy to experience a blowout or loss of control. I recommend that every time you change tires or during annual inspections, you clean the sidewall and carefully check the numbers and letters. If you don’t understand, look it up on a mobile app or the manual. Developing this habit can save you a lot on repair costs.
I've been driving for over thirty years and must understand tire ratings. Look at the series of characters printed on the tire sidewall. The size section starts with something like 185/65R15—185mm width, 65 aspect ratio, R for standard radial, and 15-inch rim. The load index follows the size as numbers like 89 or 95, indicating the tire's load capacity. Check the manual to find that 89 means about 580kg. The speed rating letter, such as H or T, is right next to the load number—H stands for a maximum speed of 210km/h. This stuff is more critical than anything for safety; mismatched ratings could leave you stranded or damage your car. My advice when buying new tires is to match your vehicle's recommended specs—don’t cheap out with lower-grade tires, especially if you haul loads or drive long distances often. Higher ratings mean better durability and peace of mind. Saving money isn’t worth risking your life.
Just learned this stuff, sharing a quick tip. The tire sidewall has codes—look for markings like P215/60R16. 'P' stands for passenger car tire, '215' is the width, '60' is the aspect ratio, 'R' indicates radial construction, and '16' is the rim size. Often followed by a load index like 95, which tells you the max load (95 ≈ 690 kg), plus a letter like 'S' for speed rating ('S' means 180 km/h). When replacing tires, I always check these specs to ensure they match the OEM requirements for safety and handling. Never cheap out with the wrong grade—it’s risky, especially at high speeds or in rain/snow.
