TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION
3.5.1.1 INFORMATION ON PASSENGER VEHICLE TIRES
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Please refer to diagram below.
P - The “P” indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.
NEXT NUMBER - This three-digit number gives the width in millimeters of the tire from sidewall
edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, the wider the tire.
NEXT NUMBER - This two-digit number, known as the aspect ratio, gives the tire’s ratio of height
to width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall for improved steering response and
better overall handling on dry pavement.
R - The “R” stands for radial. Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for
the past 20 years.
NEXT NUMBER - This two-digit number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your
wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel diameter.
NEXT NUMBER - This two- or three-digit number is the tire’s load index. It is a measurement of
not required by law.
M+S The “M+S” or “M/S” indicates that the tire has some mud and snow capability. Most radial
tires have these markings; hence, they have some mud and snow capability.
SPEED RATING The speed rating denotes the speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for
required by law.