What does AO on tires mean?
3 Answers
Tire with AO stands for Audi Original, meaning original Audi equipment. The functions of tires are as follows: Support the entire weight of the vehicle: Bear the load of the car and transmit power and torque in other directions; Transmit traction and braking torque: Ensure good adhesion between the wheels and the road surface to improve the car's power, braking, and passability; Work together with the car suspension to mitigate the impact during driving and dampen the resulting vibrations; Prevent severe vibration and early damage to car components: Adapt to the high-speed performance of the vehicle and reduce driving noise, ensuring driving safety, handling stability, comfort, and energy efficiency.
When you ask what 'AO' on tires means, I guess you might have seen markings on the tire sidewall, such as Michelin Primacy AO. This usually stands for 'Audi Original,' indicating that the tire is specifically designed and certified for Audi models as original equipment. I think it's like having clothes tailor-made – this ensures the tire perfectly matches Audi's suspension system and driving characteristics, enhancing handling and safety. I've personally tried non-AO tires while driving, and the result was twice as much noise when cornering, along with affected braking distance. I recommend owners refer to their vehicle manual; if driving an Audi, prioritize tires with the AO marking to avoid compatibility issues causing extra wear or malfunctions. Letters in tire specifications like P225/55R17 are important, but AO is a brand-specific indicator, not a standard speed rating.
The AO marking on tires specifically stands for Audi Original Equipment, indicating that the tire is Audi-certified original equipment. I often see it during car repairs. For example, the Michelin Primacy series has AO versions, specially optimized for models like the A4 or Q5 with tailored tread patterns and materials to enhance wet-road grip. Beyond standard tire codes such as size and speed ratings, AO is just an additional compatibility identifier. Using non-AO tires may lead to ABS malfunctions or premature aging due to mismatched vibration frequencies. When replacing tires, check the vehicle's VIN code or consult a technician—don’t casually choose regular tires to avoid compromising driving smoothness and overall performance. Remember, small tire details can impact safety in big ways.
