What does 215/55R17 mean?
1 Answers
215/55R17 refers to the tire specifications, where 215 indicates the tire section width is 215 millimeters; 55 is the aspect ratio, meaning the height of the tire sidewall is 55% of the tire section width; R indicates the tire has a radial construction, showing this is a radial tire; 17 means the rim diameter is 17 inches. The numbers and letters in 215/55R17 are key parameter information for the tire, followed by the load index and speed rating. When selecting tires, it's essential to fully consider all parameters based on specific conditions. Tires are the only part of a car that comes into contact with the ground, affecting the vehicle's driving stability and safety. Being rubber products, tires age over time with prolonged use, hence requiring regular replacement. Generally, tires installed on a car can last four years. When purchasing new tires, always check the production date, as unused tires typically have a shelf life of three years. Besides the model, tires also display the following common data: The tire sidewall may have an arrow or the word OUTERSIDE, indicating the tire's rotation direction; a small umbrella symbol on the sidewall means the tire is suitable for driving in rainy or slippery conditions. Some tires may have other letters or symbols with special meanings: "X" denotes high-pressure tires, "C" reinforced tires, "B" bias-ply tires, and "-" low-pressure tires. Tire cord materials: Represented by Pinyin, such as M for cotton cord, R for rayon cord, N for nylon cord, G for steel cord, and ZG for steel radial cord tires. Speed rating: Indicates the maximum speed a tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. Letters from A to Z represent certified speed ratings from 4.8 km/h to 300 km/h. Common speed ratings include: Q: 160 km/h; H: 210 km/h; V: 240 km/h; W: 270 km/h; Y: 300 km/h. Rim specification: Shows the rim size compatible with the tire for practical use, e.g., standard rim 5.00F. In daily use, pay attention to the following points: Regularly inspect the tire surface for cracks, deformations, or other defects. As tires wear from driving, the tread grooves gradually become shallower. If the tread is worn flat, it loses its drainage and anti-slip functions, significantly reducing the car's performance. Small cracks can be potential hazards for blowouts at high speeds. Additionally, promptly remove stones lodged in the grooves. Park on level ground whenever possible. Avoid parking on roads with thick, sharp, or pointed stones. Do not park near or in contact with petroleum products, acids, or other materials that can deteriorate rubber. After parking, avoid turning the steering wheel, as this accelerates tire wear. Avoid splashing water to cool down. In hot weather or during high-speed driving, tires can overheat, increasing pressure. Park to let the tires cool naturally; never release air to reduce pressure or splash water to cool, as this can cause abnormal aging of the tread rubber. Avoid sudden braking. Try to minimize frequent and hard braking to prevent accelerated tread wear from dragging against the ground.
