What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

If it’s time for a new set of new tires, you’ve probably noticed the combination of numbers and letters on the sidewalls. Are you wondering, “What do tire numbers mean?” The numbers are codes that indicate the size and type of tire and its performance purpose on Comanche roads. Here Bayer Motor Company explains the tire number meaning to take all the mystery out of it. Of course, you can always contact our parts department or service center if you have questions. 

Tire Number Meanings Explained

A tire’s code is a series of letters and numbers that indicate the size, speed rating, load index, and type of tire. It’s essential that you follow manufacturer recommendations for your specific vehicle’s size and type of tires. This information is usually in your owner’s manual. 

Example: P215/65R15 95H

While it may look like gibberish to you, each section of code represents a bit of information to accurately identify the type of tire it is.

Decoding “P”

The “P” is for “P-Metric tire,” which is for passenger vehicles. If your tires have “LT,” it stands for “light truck,” and the tires are for light-weight pickup trucks. If the tire doesn’t have a letter before the code, it is European or Euro-Metric. They have different load capacities.

Decoding “215”

After the “P” is the “215” number, which represents tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. In the above example, the width is 215 millimeters.

Decoding “65”

Following the forward slash comes the aspect ratio code, indicated by “65” in the above example. The ratio is the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. This tire has an aspect ratio where its height is 65% of the tire’s width. The higher the aspect ratio, the larger the sidewalls will be.

Decoding “R”

The “R” shows the tire’s construction, with “R” symbolizing that it’s a radial tire.

Decoding “15”

The “15” is the wheel size from one end to the other, which tells us what tire can fit on the particular wheel. In the example, the code means that this tire is meant for a 15-inch wheel.

Decoding “95H”

At the end of the numbers and letters is “95H,” a combination of the load index and speed rating. The load index of “95” indicates how much weight the tire will support when it’s correctly inflated and can range from 75-105 for passenger vehicles. The “H” conveys the speed rating, which is how fast the tire can go safely based on load capacity. The rating ranges from A-Z, So, with our example, a tire with an “H” rating can go up to 130 mph.

How to Check Tire Pressure 

Regardless of the size and rating of your tires, one of the best ways to keep them in good condition for your Stephenville drives is to keep them properly inflated. Checking your vehicle’s tire pressure is easy. In fact, most new Chevy and GMC vehicles have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) built into the tire. If your tires are improperly inflated, you’ll get a notification from the TPMS. If that happens, take your car to a gas station to remedy the issue. 

Trust Bayer Motor Company for All Your Car Care Needs

If you need new tires, brakes, or an oil change, you can quickly schedule service online or over the phone. Bayer Motor Company is here for all of your car maintenance and parts needs, and we are conveniently located in Eastland! Check out our service specials and reach out to us today!