Guide to Interpreting Your Car Tire Labels
Learn how to decode car tire labels to select the proper tires for your vehicle. This guide explains key elements such as size, load capacity, speed ratings, and seasonal suitability, ensuring improved safety and tire performance.
Selecting the appropriate tire is crucial for optimal vehicle performance, safety, and comfort. The key to choosing the right tire starts with understanding the information provided on the tire’s label, which appears on every model.
Example tire label: P195/60R16 89H M+S
The alphanumeric sequence reveals vital details about the tire. The initial characters specify the size and type. The letter “P” indicates the tire meets North American passenger vehicle standards, while a tire without “P” might conform to European ETRTO standards. An “LT” suggests a tire designed for light trucks or SUVs, capable of handling heavier loads. A “T” indicates a temporary or spare tire.
Next, the number 195 indicates the tire’s width in millimeters. The number 60 reflects the aspect ratio, representing the height proportion relative to width—here, the sidewall height is 60% of the tire width. The letter “R” stands for radial construction, which is the most common tire type. The number 16 specifies the wheel diameter in inches. The number 89 shows the load-carrying capacity, determining how much weight the tire can support. Speed ratings like H (130 mph), T (118 mph), and S (112 mph) communicate maximum safe speeds. The M+S marking indicates suitability for all-season driving.
Understanding these specifications helps ensure you select tires that match your vehicle’s requirements, enhancing safety and performance while avoiding imbalance issues that can affect driving dynamics.
