What does the 'W' on car tires mean?
1 Answers
Car tire 'W' refers to the speed rating, which indicates the maximum speed a tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. 'W' signifies that the tire's maximum speed is 270 kilometers per hour. Below is more information about car tires: 1. Car tires are one of the essential components of a vehicle, directly in contact with the road surface. Together with the car suspension, they help absorb shocks during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smoothness. They also ensure excellent adhesion between the wheels and the road, improve the vehicle's traction, braking, and off-road capability, and bear the weight of the car. The critical role tires play in vehicles is increasingly recognized. 2. During tire usage, tire pressure is a crucial indicator. It must match the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Otherwise, whether the pressure is too high or too low, it can significantly damage the tire's lifespan. Overinflated tires cause the central tread to wear faster than the sides. Additionally, excessive tire pressure reduces the contact area with the road. When accelerating, parts of the tire lifting off and returning to the ground may deform due to acceleration, leading to a wave-like phenomenon. This not only increases rolling resistance, affecting acceleration performance, but also causes steering wheel vibration and misalignment. Overinflation makes tires more susceptible to punctures from sharp objects like nails or glass, increasing the risk of blowouts. Excessive pressure also reduces ride comfort, as the tire absorbs less vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components.