How to understand Tyre Markings: What’s Written on Your Tyres
In this guide, we’ll unravel the mystery behind tyre markings and explain what each symbol and code means. Tyres are the unsung heroes of our vehicles, providing the essential connection between the road and our cars. While they might look like nothing more than round rubber discs, tyres are actually intricate pieces of engineering, designed to withstand tremendous forces and provide optimal performance in various driving conditions. One aspect of tyres that often perplexes drivers is the array of markings found on their sidewalls.
1. Tyre Size:
The most prominent markings on a tyre’s sidewall indicate its size. This typically follows a standardized format, such as “205/55R16.” Here’s what each number and letter represents:
- 205: This number denotes the tyre’s width in millimeters.
- 55: The aspect ratio, which represents the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the tyre’s width.
- R: Indicates that the tyre has a radial construction.
- 16: The diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
2. Load Index and Speed Rating:
Every tyre is assigned a load index and speed rating, which indicate the maximum load capacity and speed at which the tyre can safely operate. These are usually represented by two numbers and/or letters, such as “91V.”
- Load Index: The load index number corresponds to a specific weight capacity. For example, a load index of 91 indicates a maximum load capacity of 615 kilograms per tyre.
- Speed Rating: The speed rating letter denotes the maximum speed at which the tyre can safely travel. Common speed ratings include:
- H: Up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
- V: Up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
- W: Up to 168 mph (270 km/h)
- Y: Up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
3. DOT Code And E4 code:
The Department of Transportation (DOT) code is a series of alphanumeric characters that identify the tyre’s manufacturing details, including the plant code, tyre size, and production date. The DOT code is required by law and can be found on one side of the tyre’s sidewall.
- DOT XXXX XXX – 1510
- Department of Transportation approval code DOT
- Production date: 1510
- Week No. 15 of 2010
- E4 0157293
- Code for the licensing authority which granted the European Type Approval E*
- Netherlands E4
- ECE Type Approval Number: 157293
4. Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature Ratings:
Some tyres feature additional markings that provide information about their performance characteristics:
- Treadwear Rating: A numerical code that indicates the tyre’s expected tread life compared to a reference tyre. A higher treadwear rating suggests greater durability.
- Traction Rating: Indicates the tyre’s ability to stop on wet roads. Ratings range from AA (highest) to C (lowest).
- Temperature Rating: Reflects the tyre’s resistance to heat buildup. Ratings range from A (highest) to C (lowest), with higher ratings indicating better heat resistance. Understanding run flat tyre.
5. M+S and 3PMSF Symbols:
The M+S (mud and snow) and 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbols indicate that the tyre meets specific performance criteria for driving in mud, snow, and icy conditions. These symbols are often found on all-season and winter tyres. How to check tyre depth.
Tables with Load index, Speed index, Specific OE manufacturer codes, RUN flat tyre codes
| Load index | Kg | Load index | Kg | Load index | Kg |
| 50 | 190 | 75 | 387 | 100 | 800 |
| 51 | 195 | 76 | 400 | 101 | 825 |
| 52 | 200 | 77 | 412 | 102 | 850 |
| 53 | 206 | 78 | 425 | 103 | 875 |
| 54 | 212 | 79 | 437 | 104 | 900 |
| 55 | 218 | 80 | 450 | 105 | 925 |
| 56 | 224 | 81 | 462 | 106 | 950 |
| 57 | 230 | 82 | 475 | 107 | 975 |
| 58 | 236 | 83 | 487 | 108 | 1000 |
| 59 | 243 | 84 | 500 | 109 | 1030 |
| 60 | 250 | 85 | 515 | 110 | 1060 |
| 61 | 257 | 86 | 530 | 111 | 1090 |
| 62 | 265 | 87 | 545 | 112 | 1120 |
| 63 | 272 | 88 | 560 | 113 | 1150 |
| 64 | 280 | 89 | 580 | 114 | 1180 |
| 65 | 290 | 90 | 600 | 115 | 1215 |
| 66 | 300 | 91 | 615 | 116 | 1250 |
| 67 | 307 | 92 | 630 | 117 | 1285 |
| 68 | 315 | 93 | 650 | 118 | 1320 |
| 69 | 325 | 94 | 670 | 119 | 1360 |
| 70 | 335 | 95 | 690 | 120 | 1400 |
| 71 | 345 | 96 | 710 | 121 | 1450 |
| 72 | 355 | 97 | 730 | 122 | 1500 |
| 73 | 365 | 98 | 750 | 123 | 1550 |
| 74 | 375 | 99 | 775 | 124 | 1600 |
| Speed index | Km/h | Mph |
| L | 120 | 75 |
| M | 130 | 81 |
| N | 140 | 87 |
| P | 150 | 93 |
| Q | 160 | 100 |
| R | 170 | 106 |
| S | 180 | 112 |
| T | 190 | 118 |
| U | 200 | 125 |
| H | 210 | 131 |
| V | 240 | 150 |
| W | 270 | 168 |
| Y | 300 | 187 |
| ZR | > 240 | > 150 |
| List of codes used | Make |
| * | BMW |
| A0 | Audi |
| C1 | Chrysler |
| F | Ford |
| G | Opel |
| LRO | Jaguar |
| M3 | BMW M3 |
| MO, MO1 | Mercedes-Benz |
| N0, N1, N2, N3, N4 | Porsche |
| RO1, RO2 | Audi Quattro |
| S1 | Peugeot |
| Run-flat tyre code | Brand |
| AOE | Audi Original Extended |
| CS | Continental ContiSeal |
| CSR | Continental Conti Safety Rim |
| DSST | Dunlop Self Supporting Technology |
| EMT | Goodyear Extended Mobility |
| EUFORI@ | Pirelli |
| HRS | Hankook Runflat System |
| MOE | Mercedes-Benz Original Extended |
| PAX | Michelin |
| RFT | Run Flat Tyre |
| ROF | Run On Flat |
| RSC | Runflat System Component |
| SSR | Self Supporting Runflat |
| TRF | Toyo Run Flat |
| XRP | Kumho Extended Runflat Performance |
| ZP | Michelin Zero Pressure |
Conclusion:
Understanding tyre markings is essential for selecting the right tyres for your vehicle and ensuring safe and efficient performance on the road. By familiarizing yourself with these markings, you can make informed decisions when it comes to tyre replacement and maintenance, ultimately enhancing your driving experience and safety. If you ever have questions about tyre markings or need assistance choosing the right tyres for your vehicle, consult with a qualified tyre professional for expert guidance.
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