What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

When looking at your tire’s sidewall, you’ll notice a series of numbers and letters. These aren’t just random sequences; they tell you everything you need to know about your tire’s specifications. Knowing the answer to the question “What do the numbers on tires mean?” can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and compatibility. At Romain Subaru, we’re decoding the mystery of tire number meanings, a crucial piece of information for selecting the right tires for your vehicle.

Tire Number Meaning: Decoding the Numbers

P215/65R15 95H – This is a common tire size format, but what do these numbers and letters mean? Here’s a breakdown of the tire number codes you’ll typically find on your tire’s sidewall:

• P: Type of tire. ‘P’ stands for passenger vehicle. You might also see ‘LT’ for light truck, or no letter for European metric.
• 215: Tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.
• 65: Aspect ratio. This number is a percentage that represents the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width. In this case, the sidewall height is 65% of 215mm.
• R: Construction type. ‘R’ stands for radial construction, the most common tire type.
• 15: Wheel diameter in inches. This is the size of the wheel that the tire is intended to fit.
• 95H: Load index and speed rating. ’95’ represents the tire’s load capacity, while ‘H’ indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely reach.

Why It Matters

Understanding the tire number meaning is crucial for several reasons:

• Selecting the correct tire size and type for your vehicle ensures that your tires can adequately support your car’s weight and perform as expected at various speeds.
• Matching the right tire to your vehicle can enhance performance, fuel efficiency, and overall Owensboro, KY driving experience.
• Ensuring your tires are compatible with your vehicle prevents potential issues with handling, braking, and stability.

What Do the Numbers on Tires Mean? Learn More at Romain Subaru

At Romain Subaru, we believe that an informed Vincennes driver is a safer driver, which is why we offer a service and parts knowledge hub. Knowing “What do the numbers on tires mean?” is a step towards that goal. Next time you’re considering new tires, refer back to this guide and ensure you’re selecting the right tires for your vehicle’s needs. For more assistance or information, our service team in Evansville, near Newburgh, is always here to help. Schedule an appointment now, then browse our service specials!