What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

Closeup of Tire Numbers with Wheel Rim

When you take a look at your tires, you’ll notice a set of numbers and letters printed across the surface. What do these tire numbers mean? Tire number meaning is more complicated than you might think because each digit represents a different piece of information. In this guide, we walk you through the different tire number meanings, so you can buy your new set with confidence at Capital Cadillac!

Deciphering Tire Number Meanings

So, what do the numbers on tires mean? Let’s go through the example P215/65R15 95H to find out.

Decoding “P”

This indicates the type of vehicle that uses the tire. “P” stands for “P-Metric”, so you’re dealing with a passenger vehicle in Moose Jaw. “LT” means “light truck” and if no letter is present, that means you have a European-style tire.

Decoding “215”

This number represents the tire width from sidewall to sidewall. In this example, the tire has a width of 215 millimetres.

Decoding “65”

This is the aspect ratio, or the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. In this example, the height is equal to 65% of the tire width. Larger aspect ratios mean bigger sidewalls.

Decoding “R”

This is the type of construction that the tire uses. This tire has an “R” for radial construction. You might also see bias and solid tire construction when shopping in Weyburn. 

Decoding “15”

This number tells you what type of wheel can use this particular tire. For our example, “15” means the tire can fit a 15-inch wheel.

Decoding “95H”

The last digits represent both the load index and speed rating. The load index shows how much weight the tire can support. While this example is 95, the load index can range from 75 to 100. The speed rating shows how fast the tire can safely travel. In this case, H” means the tire can go up to 210 km/h on the Estevan roads. 

How to Check Tire Pressure

Now you know the answer to, “What do tire numbers mean?” but do you know how to take care of your set? You can take care of maintenance tasks like tire rotations and alignments at the service centre, but you can check your tire pressure in a few seconds at home! New Cadillacs come with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), though you can also check your pressure manually with a tire gauge from our parts department. Both under and overinflated tires can compromise your performance and efficiency, so if you notice a TPMS warning light on your dashboard, don’t neglect it!

Visit Capital Cadillac for Your Automotive Needs

You may know the answer to, “What do the numbers on tires mean?” but what if you still have questions about car care? Whether you’re due for a tire rotation or a new set of tires for your Cadillac, we’re happy to help. Contact us at any time or schedule an appointment with our service centre in Regina.

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