How to Read a Tire's Sidewall

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How to Read a Tire's Sidewall

Practically everything you need to know about a tire can be found on its sidewall.

The following pieces of information are typically branded on the sidewall of the tire:

  • Tire Manufacture
  • Tire Name
  • Tire Size (Width, Aspect Ratio, Rim Diameter)
  • Radial
  • Z-Rated
  • Load Index & Speed Symbol
  • U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number
  • Severe Conditions (Snow, Mud)
  • Tire Ply Composition and Materials
  • Maximum Load Rating
  • Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades
  • Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure

Check out the following articles for more detailed descriptions of the various branding items:

  • Understanding Tire Sizes
  • Tire Anatomy and Construction
  • Knowing Your Tire Inflation Pressure
  • Tire Inflation Pressure and Temperature
  • Tire Inflation Pressure and Time
  • Tire Inflation Pressure and Performance
  • How Tire Inflation Pressure Affects Wet Performance
  • Understanding and Calculating Tire Dimensions
  • DOT Tire Identification Number


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