What does 3T on tires mean?

[DeHailey]

The 3T marking on tires refers to the Treadwear Index, Traction Index, and Temperature Index. The Treadwear Index indicates the tire's wear resistance—the higher the number, the more wear-resistant the tire is, but the harder the rubber becomes, resulting in reduced comfort. Conversely, a lower number means less wear resistance, softer rubber, and better comfort. Below are the specific details of the 3T indicators: 1. TREADWEAR (Wear Resistance Index). The higher the number following this, the more wear-resistant the tire is. For typical family sedans, the number is usually above 300, indicating relatively high wear resistance. Performance tires with superior grip, however, often have numbers below 200. 2. TRACTION (Traction Ability). The Traction Index measures the tire's grip performance on wet surfaces, categorized into four grades: AA, A, B, and C. 3. TEMPERATURE (Temperature Index). The Temperature Index grade reflects the tire's heat dissipation capability.