What Do the Tire Parameters Represent?

[DiLukas]

The parameters displayed on the tire model represent the tire's width, aspect ratio, tire type, and applicable size. Methods to Differentiate Tires: The tire model can be identified based on the data on the side of the car tire. Generally, the side of the tire will indicate the tire's width, aspect ratio, tire type, and applicable size. When purchasing tires, it is important to observe the data of your own tires before making a purchase. Functions of Car Tires: Car tires are one of the important components of a vehicle, directly in contact with the road surface and working together with the car suspension to mitigate the impact during driving. They ensure good ride comfort and smooth driving, maintain excellent adhesion between the wheels and the road surface, improve the vehicle's traction, braking, and off-road capability, and bear the weight of the car.

[AsherAnn]

You know that string of numbers and letters on the tire sidewall, right? Like 215/55R17 94V. The first number, 215, is the tire width in millimeters. The 55 is the aspect ratio, simply put, it means the tire's height is 55% of its width. The R stands for radial tire, which is pretty much standard these days. 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. Pay attention to the 94V that follows—94 is the load index, roughly 670 kg per tire, and V is the speed rating, indicating a maximum speed of 240 km/h. There's also a small box on the side with a four-digit number, that's the manufacturing date. For example, 2523 means the tire was produced in the 25th week of 2023. When replacing tires, don't just look at the size; the load index and speed rating must also match the original vehicle requirements.

[DelKennedy]

As a female driver who frequently takes long-distance trips, I pay the most attention to three tire parameters: speed rating, load index, and tire pressure markings. The speed rating letter is at the end of the parameters, with H representing 210 km/h, V being 240 km/h, and W indicating a capability of up to 270 km/h. The higher the load index number, the greater the weight capacity; my SUV has a load index of 98, corresponding to 750 kg. The factory-recommended tire pressure values are marked on the door frame, such as 2.3 bar for the front tires and 2.5 bar for the rear tires. I was once cheated when changing tires—the seller provided tires with a speed rating of T, which caused the steering wheel to shake at high speeds. Now, I always check the Treadwear abrasion index in the small print on the sidewall; a rating above 300 means better durability.

[DelClayton]

Tire parameters hide these key details: Take 235/45ZR18 98Y as an example. The 235mm tread width determines grip, but excessive width may cause fender rubbing. The 45% aspect ratio affects comfort - the smaller the number, the thinner the sidewall. ZR indicates a high-performance radial tire. 18 inches matches the wheel rim size. 98 corresponds to a single tire load capacity of 750kg, while Y represents a 300km/h speed limit. New tires have about 8mm tread depth, and must be replaced when worn to 1.6mm. Pay attention to the wear indicator blocks pointed by the triangular marks on the sidewall. Don't confuse summer/all-season tire symbols - snow tires feature a mountain snowflake logo.