All tyres have markings on their sidewalls; you must have seen them during tyre check-ups. These markings are very easy to decipher, even though most car owners don’t know how to decode them. We are delving into this issue in this article. After reading this article, you are sure to have a better comprehension of your Car Tyres bath.
Suppose, the reading is “P205/55/R16/ Tyres.” There is also an additional number like “95H”. Plus, the producer’s name, logo, inflation pressure, directional arrows, approval rating, and other information is also given. Let us find out what the reading means.
205 – Width
The number 205 indicates the maximum width of a Cheap tyres near me. The gap between the sidewalls gives the required measurement. The producer has to decide on the standard width as per the vehicle. The width of a tyre has a significant contribution to fuel consumption, traction, adequate vehicle handling. So, you should be aware of this feature while choosing a tyre.
55 – Aspect Ratio
A tyre’s cross-sectional height divided by its width gives the aspect ratio. For better understanding, here, 55 means that the tyre’s cross-sectional height constitutes 55% of its width. An increase in the tyre’s sidewall height causes an increase in the aspect ratio. The highest value of this ratio is 95% – the tyres of heavy vehicles have this ratio. Though a higher aspect ratio offers increased control, it negatively impacts handling, due to which high-performance cars have a lower aspect ratio. As a result, it jeopardizes riding comfort. The manufacturers are hard at work to obtain the ideal middle-ground between comfort and handling.
R – Construction
These letters, (here it is R) convey tyre construction. In the example taken, R stands for Radial. Some vehicles have B in them which means that the vehicle comes with a bias-ply tyre. The construction of a tyre tells a lot about its specific features.
17 – Diameter Of The Wheel
The number 15 denotes the wheel’s diameter. The OD of the alloy/rim with which the tyre will be wrapped around is indicated by this number. The number has the utmost importance as it determines the dimension of rim size. Which tyres you will choose is heavily dependent on this factor.
P – Application
Here, P denotes the application of the tyre – P means passenger. Again, LT will mean a heavier load rating light truck, and so on.
95 – Load Index
The number denotes the upper limit of a tyre’s load-carrying capability. The load rating is higher in high-profile tyres than in low-profile tyres. Not fitting tyres with an accurate load rating will jeopardize the driver’s safety, often leading to accidents. Take note that the number given in the sidewall is an index. The tabloids of manufacturers contain the corresponding weights; look through them first. For instance, 95 implies the tyres can carry up to 690kgs.
H – Speed Rating
Speed rating gives you the maximum speed that a tyre can maintain. It means the highest speed you can reach without risking any tyre blowout. The speed rating of passenger cars is specific, though there is no speed rating in light trucks. You should be careful of your speed rating before riding the car to its limits. Or else, there may be unforeseen accidents.
Directional Arrows –
Directional arrows are useful when you need to attach a unidirectional tyre. Asymmetrical tyres come with ‘in/out’ mention because it needs to fit with a bigger tread for proper functioning.
Date Of Manufacturing –
Sometimes, the production month and year is also mentioned in the tyres. Rubber deteriorates over time which causes a loss of quality in a tyre.
Inflation Pressure (In PSI) –
Inflation pressure is the pressure that a tyre needs to maintain. Measured in PSI, tyre pressure has a considerable effect on the performance of a tyre. So, to get the ideal fuel economy, optimum performance, wear and tear and increased tyre lifespan, you need to keep a close eye on inflation pressure.
Temperature Indicator –
The temperature indicator shows the upper and lower temperature limit of a tyre. It is paramount that the tyre doesn’t exceed the recommended temperature range.
Approval Signature –
You know that the tyre is approved through the approval signature. The signature indicates that the tyre has passed all inspections and conforms with the regulations laid down by the authorities.
Adequate tyre maintenance only requires three steps – inflate, rotate, and evaluate. Tyres experience an air pressure loss of 1 PSI(pound per square inch) every month. Therefore, you need to have a pressure inspection at least once a month, preferably in the morning. Maintain the pressure level within the recommended range. Consult a professional if you are not sure about your abilities.
Rotate your tyres every 5000 miles – it will extend the life of cheap tyres near me, and the wear will be smooth and uneven. Develop the habit of looking for signs of defects and tread wear while washing the car or gas refill. Keep an eye out for cracking, tears, bulging, or uneven wear.
