If you’ve ever looked at the side of your tire and wondered what all those numbers and letters mean, you’re not alone. Tire markings can look complicated at first glance, but they actually provide useful information about your vehicle’s safety, performance, and fit.
The good news? You don’t need to be a car expert to understand the basics. Here’s a simple breakdown of what those tire numbers and letters really mean, without the confusion.
Where to Find Tire Information
All the important details are printed right on the sidewall of your tire. You’ll see a long combination of numbers and letters that looks something like this:
P215/60R16 95H
Each part of that code tells you something specific about the tire.
What the First Letter Means
The first letter (or lack of one) indicates the type of vehicle the tire is designed for.
- P = Passenger vehicle (most cars, SUVs, and minivans)
- LT = Light truck (some pickups and larger SUVs)
- No letter = European metric tire, often similar to passenger tires
Most everyday drivers will see a P at the beginning.
Understanding Tire Width and Aspect Ratio
Using P215/60R16 as an example:
- 215 = Tire width in millimeters (from sidewall to sidewall)
- 60 = Aspect ratio (the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width)
A lower number means a shorter sidewall, which can affect ride comfort and handling.
What the “R” and Wheel Size Mean
- R = Radial construction (the most common type of tire today)
- 16 = Wheel diameter in inches
This number must match your wheel size exactly or the tire won’t fit properly.
Load Index: How Much Weight a Tire Can Handle
The number after the wheel size (like 95) is the load index. It tells you how much weight each tire can safely support.
Higher numbers mean higher weight capacity. This is especially important for vehicles that regularly carry passengers, cargo, or tow trailers.
Speed Rating: How Fast the Tire Is Designed to Go
The final letter (such as H) is the speed rating, which indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely handle under proper conditions.
Common examples include:
- S – up to 112 mph
- T – up to 118 mph
- H – up to 130 mph
While you will likely never be driving that fast, consider this information as simply indicative of the tire’s performance capabilities.
Why Tire Markings Matter More Than You Think
Choosing the wrong tire size or rating can lead to:
- Poor handling or ride comfort
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Faster tire wear
- Safety concerns in emergency situations
Matching your tire’s numbers and letters to your vehicle’s requirements helps ensure proper performance and peace of mind.
When to Ask for Help
If tire codes still feel overwhelming, that’s okay. A tire professional can quickly confirm whether your current tires are the right fit or help you choose the correct replacement without guesswork.
Those numbers and letters on your tire are a guide to keeping your vehicle safe, comfortable, and dependable. Understanding the basics makes it easier to make confident decisions the next time your tires need attention.
