What is a Tire Code?

2 Answers
VanAva
07/29/25 1:37am
Tire code is an alphanumeric sequence that marks the fundamental information of a tire. Taking 205/55R1691V205 as an example: from left to right, it represents the tire width, sidewall thickness, corresponding rim diameter, and the maximum speed limit the tire can withstand. Internationally standardized tire codes use millimeters to denote section width and aspect ratio percentage. For instance, 235 indicates the tire width is 235mm, 55 means the tire's aspect ratio is 55% (section height being 55% of the width), 17 represents the corresponding rim diameter, 99 stands for the load index, and V indicates the speed rating.
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OCaden
08/12/25 5:43am
Hey, when it comes to tire codes, I often help friends spot issues at auto repair shops. It's actually a series of numbers and letters printed on the sidewall of the tire, not just the model. For example, take the common 215/55R17 94V. Here, 215 represents the tire width of 215 millimeters, 55 is the aspect ratio indicating the sidewall height proportion, and R17 means the wheel diameter is 17 inches, suitable for standard SUV rims. In 94V, 94 is the load index, with each tire capable of bearing 670 kilograms; V stands for the speed rating, up to 240 km/h. Additionally, DOT codes like DOT EX6R YHG 4019, where the ending 4019 suggests the 40th week of 2019 manufacturing, remind you not to use expired tires to avoid blowout risks. Understanding these codes ensures more precise tire replacement matching the vehicle manual, preventing handling imbalance or abnormal fuel consumption, and allows checking if stock tires meet seasonal needs, which is crucial for highway driving safety.
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