The Tire Size Chart Tells You Much More Than You Think

If you need another set of tires, there is certainTire Type And Load Index
information you will need to get the right size. You canThe letter after that represents the type of tire. In the
find the information on the label of the current tires orabove example, the letter R is for radial. The number
look at a tire size chart. That can be easier said thanafter the space is the measurement for the wheel rim
done if you don't know what to look for. If you don't,diameter. The second number, which has a space
then you won't know what kind to purchase. This alsopreceding it, represents the load index of the tire. It will
means you won't know the price range you're lookingtell you how much weight a vehicle with four tires can
for. So, what do you do when you don't know?hold up safely, without any problems.
You can go to the dealer and ask for assistance.Speed Limit Rating
They have tire charts with every make, model andAt the end of the label, there is a letter. This
style for different vehicles. It's good to know what therepresents the traveling speed amount. The tire should
letters and numbers mean on the labels so that yoube able to drive safely within this limit. The letter S is
can pick the right tire in the future.used for speed limits up to 112 miles per hour; the letter
H is used for speed limits up to 130 miles per hour; the
Vehicle Typeletter V is used for speed limits up to 150 miles per
Say you have a label that says, "P167/40R 12 79H". Ifhour. For anything above 150 miles per hour, the letter
you don't know what that means, you're temporarily aZ would be used.
lost cause. The initial letter within the label specifiesIt's not advantageous to drive at high speeds because
what kind of vehicle it is: the letter P stands forthe tires can heat up and this will cause the treads to
passenger; LT stands for light truck; and T stands forunravel. The speed ratings advise about the limit you
spare tire or temporary tire.can drive and if it's safe at that speed.
Width And RatioYou should make note of the treads, size and find our
The next set in the label series, 167, refers to the tire'sabout warranties for mileage. If you're not sure about
section width. This is measured in millimeters. Theany of this, consult with your dealer. Using a tire size
lower the number, the shorter the tire is. After thechart could be the best thing for you to understand
slash, those set of numbers refer to the ratio. This isyour tire size. You want to get your money's worth
the percentage of the section width. Depending on theout of them.
kind of tires they are, the number could be lower.