What Do the Numbers on Tires Mean?

If you look at the side of any set of tires, you’ll notice a set of numbers and letters printed into the surface of the rubber. What do the numbers on tires mean, and why is it important? The tire number reveals a wealth of information about the tire size, type, and more – which can be a huge asset when picking out your replacement set! Find out all about what tire numbers mean, and visit Jerry Remus Chevrolet to start shopping tires in the Gothenburg and McCook area.

What Do Tire Numbers Mean: Decoding Each Section

So, what do the numbers on tires mean? The sequence of numbers and letters is actually a combination of different codes, rather than one big number. In this guide, we’ll break down each segment to help you determine your tire number’s meaning. Take this code for example:

Example: P215/65R15 95H

Decoding “P”

The “P” stands for “P-Metric tire,” which means it is a tire for a passenger vehicle. You might notice “LT” instead on a light-weight pickup truck. If there is no letter to start your number sequence, this means you have a European style tire or “Euro-Metric”.

Decoding “215”

Next, the “215” number is the tire width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. In this example, the width of this tire is 215 millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. This is important for fit.

Decoding “65”

The “65” is the aspect ratio code, or the ratio is the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. For this tire, the height is equal to around 65% of its total width. Larger aspect ratios mean larger sidewalls.

Decoding “R”

This section represents the tire’s construction. Since this tire has an “R”, that indicates the tire’s construction is radial.

Decoding “15”

This number tells you the tire size, so you can match your tire to your wheel size. The “15” in the example means that this tire will fit a 15-inch wheel.

Decoding “95H”

The last portion of the tire number meaning is the “95H.” This reveals load index and speed rating for the tire. The load index of “95” indicates how much weight the tire can support, and this figure is given from a range of 75-105 for passenger vehicles. The “H” is the speed rating, which is given as a rating from A to Z. In this case, the tire can reach a maximum of 130 mph.

How to Check Tire Pressure

If you want to keep your tires in top shape for the long haul in Ogallala, maintaining proper air pressure is key. Checking your air pressure is simple, and many newer vehicles have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) built in to automatically keep track of your levels. If your tires are either underinflated or overinflated, you’ll get an instant notification. Just head to a gas station to fill up or let us take care of it at our service center in North Platte.

Visit Jerry Remus Chevrolet for All Your Automotive Needs

Whether you need a new set of tires or certified brake service, visit Jerry Remus Chevrolet for all of your automotive needs. Our team would be happy to help you understand what tire numbers mean so you can find the proper replacements, and we can help you with your rotations and balances as well. Contact us today for more information!