
2012 Buick Excelle 195/65R15. The first number 195 indicates that the tire width is 195MM, 45 means the aspect ratio of the tire section is 65%, that is, the section height is 65% of the width, the letter R stands for radial tire, and 15 represents the rim diameter of 15 inches. The 2014 Hyundai Mistra has a top speed of 180km/h and a fuel consumption of 5.9L per 100km. In addition to the model, the tire also has the following common data marked: Tire cord material: represented by Chinese pinyin, such as M-cotton cord, R-rayon cord, N-nylon cord, G-steel cord, ZG-steel radial cord tire. Speed rating: indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can carry the specified load under specified conditions. Letters A to Z represent the certified speed ratings of tires from 4.8km/h to 300km/h. Commonly used speed ratings are: Q: 160km/h; H: 210km/h; V: 240km/h; W: 270km/h; Y: 300km/h; Rim specification: indicates the rim specification that matches the tire. For practical use, such as "Standard rim 5.00F".

I drive a 2012 Buick Excelle GT, and the original tire specifications are quite memorable: 225/50 R17. These numbers are quite interesting. The 225 refers to the tread width of 225 millimeters, the 50 represents the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 50% of the tread width, and R17 indicates 17-inch rims. Back then, the sports version equipped with this specification indeed offered strong grip and stable cornering, though the tire noise was slightly louder. When replacing tires, pay special attention to the speed rating and load index. The original tires were 91V, so don’t skimp by buying lower-grade tires.

Last time I helped my neighbor check out a used car, I happened to research this model. The 2012 Excelle mainly uses two types of tires: the base model comes with 205/60 R16, which looks thicker and provides more comfort on rough roads; the higher-end 225/50 R17 is thinner and more sporty. Pay special attention to the sidewall markings - for example, the 'R' stands for radial construction, which is pretty much standard nowadays. When replacing tires, it's best not to change the size as it might cause issues with annual inspections. Also, this car comes with TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), so remember to reset the sensors after changing tires, otherwise that dashboard warning light will keep bothering you.

With ten years of car repair experience, I've seen too many tire issues with the Excelle. The original specifications are mostly 205/60R16 or 225/50R17, depending on the wheel size. Three reminders: Don't use the wrong load index 91, otherwise the load capacity will be insufficient; the wheel edges are prone to deformation from impacts, leading to steering wheel vibration if the dynamic balance isn't done properly; rear tire wear is a common problem, rotating the tires every 20,000 kilometers can double their lifespan.


