What Do the Numbers on Tires Mean?

If you look closely at any set of tires, you’ll notice a string of letters and numbers embedded into the surface. So, what do the numbers on tires mean? Tire number meaning is more complicated than you might think, and each digit actually represents something different – from tire size to speed rating to tire construction type. What do your tire numbers mean? We’d love to help you, so let’s work through an example of a tire number meaning. 

What Do Your Tire Numbers Mean?

In this example, we’ll imagine a sample tire embedded with the number P215/65R15 95H. What do the numbers on the tires mean?

Decoding “P”

This indicates what type of vehicle can use the tire. You might see an LT for a light truck or no letter at all for a European-style tire. But in this case, P stands for passenger vehicle.

Decoding “215”

What do these numbers on the tire mean? This is the measurement of the tire width from sidewall to sidewall. This tire is 215 millimeters in width.

Decoding “65”

This is the aspect ratio code, or the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. Bigger aspect ratios mean bigger sidewalls. This tire has a height 65% of its width. 

Decoding “R”

This signifies the tire’s construction type. An R means the tire is a radial design. 

Decoding “15”

This indicates the size of the wheel that the tire can properly fit. This tire fits a 15-inch wheel. 

Decoding “95H”

There are two pieces of information here. First, the 95 is the load index – or how much weight the tire can handle in Branford. The number will range from 75-105. The H represents the speed rating – or how fast the tire can travel on the Milford roads. The H translates to a maximum speed of 130 mph.

Learn More About Tire Number Meaning at Executive Jeep

So, what do your tire numbers mean? The team at Executive Jeep would love to help you go through all of the numbers and letters, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with our service center! We’ve got plenty more tips and tricks to share with you about car maintenance. And if you need anything else in the New Haven area, we’re here for you every step of the way in North Haven. From tire rotations to tire sales, we can make sure that your car is in top shape for your upcoming travels.