How to read your tire’s size
We know, you look at your tire and it reads in a foreign language to you. Luckily Tire is our middle name, and we are here to explain how to read your tire size. We've created a quick reference to help explain the numbers and letter you see on the sidewall.
How does all that apply to me?
The best place to start when diving in is with the large numbers on the sidewall. These indicate your fundamental tire dimensions. In this example, the 205 indicates the width of the tire at its widest point, measured in millimeters. Directly after the slash is the tire's profile or sidewall height, indicated as a percentage of its width (in this case, 65 percent).
The "R" that follows denotes typical radial construction. Bias-play and belted tires, on the other hand, feature a D or B in this position. In this example, the denotation is closed off with the number "16" as this tire fits a 16-inch wheel. The sidewall of the tire is really the best place to find the wheel size of any vehicle.
The letter you see before the numbers dictates the class of vehicle. For most instances you will see "P" for passenger tires or "LT" for light truck.
PRO TIP: If you see “ZR” with the tire size, the "Z" notates that the tire's rated for 149mph +. That's a fast tire!
Load Index & Speed Ratings
The speed rating is important because although your vehicle's speedometer might max out at 170 mph, it's ultimately the tire's rating that will determine the highest speed a given vehicle can actually handle. The highest speed rating out there is "(Y)" which means the tire is rated for speeds "in excess of 186 mph."
Our example is showing "95 H". This describes two very important performance ratings: how much weight each axle can carry and the speed rating the tire can safely operate. In this example, the "95" indicates a max load of about 1521 pounds, and the "H" designates you can go up to a speed of 130 mph without compromising the tires integrity. Here is a list of the most common speed ratings:
Our Tire Pros team members are always ready to help you upgrade or replace your tires. There are over 650 locations nationwide, we have one near you. Let's find you a location and have any additional questions answered.
Are you shopping for new tires? Don’t mix the types – read more on the Do’s or Don’ts for tires.
Explore Tires We Offer Find a Distribution Center Near You
