answersLogoWhite

0

How do you measure car tires?

Updated: 10/25/2022
User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago

Best Answer

Car tires are marked on the sidewall with a size code. The first part of this is usually a letter. If there is no letter it is a euro metric size for use on European cars and vans and light trucks. The letter P is for a passenger vehicle ( also metric size ), T is for temporary spare, LT is light truck metric, C is for commercial trucks capable of carrying a heavier load, ST is for special trailer not for use on cars or trucks and one that the first set of digits ends in LT is older that is used for trucks that carry heavy loads.

The next part of the code is three numbers that indicate the section width in millimeters. Next there is a slash and two more digits. This gives us a ratio with the first set of three numbers and is called the "aspect ratio." For instance a car with P225/50 in the begining of a code tells us it's a passenger vehicle tire that is 225 mm wide and 112.5 mm ( 50% of 225 mm ) from inner to outer diameter of the tire.

After the aspect ratio is another letter. R refers to radial tire, D to a bias ply tire, B is for a belted tire and RF or ZRF is for a run flat tire ( can drive on it while completely deflated ),

Then the code has more digits that refer to the rim diameter or inner diameter of the tire. If there are two digits this diameter is measured in inches. If there are three digits the diameter is expressed in millimeters.

Lastly there is a service indicator ( speed and load ) giving the year of the government's requirement on tires that started in 1991.

So a P225/50 R16 91S is a tire for a passenger car that is 225 mm wide 112.5 mm tall, is a steel belted radial with a 16 inch inner diameter that complies with the speed and load requirements of 1991.

User Avatar

Wiki User

12y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: How do you measure car tires?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

What kind of chemicals damage car tires?

There are many chemicals that can damage a car's tires including bleach. Many acids will also damage a car's tires.


What criteria has to be met when shopping for new car tires?

If you are wondering what criteria has to be met when shopping for new car tires because you are considering on buying new car tires for your car, then you should follow the easy guide for picking out tires for your car.


Where can I find reviews for car tires?

Reviews or recommendations for car tires can be found on a multitude of online car forums. Many of these forums will have dedicated sections to conversations and topics regarding tires. You car manufacturer will also have information about what tires they recommend for your car model.


Will boiling water damage my car tires?

Boiling water will not damage your car tires. It is a method used to remove stubborn rims that have stuck from the car tires.


What car tires are made in America?

Thousands of different car tires are made in America.


What type of rubber is used for car tires?

Car tires are made of latex rubber.


What company makes the best car tires?

The company that makes the best car tires is mainly a matter of opinion except there are a few brands of tires that are better: What company makes the best car tires


What are the best tires for a small car?

The best tires for a small car would be the ones that the car manufacturer recommends you use on the car. If you keep good tires on your car and check them every now and then you will get better gas mileage.


What coin would be useful to measure an object?

A penny can be used to measure for safe tread depth on your car tires. Hold the penny upside-down in a tread groove. If the top of Lincoln's head is visible above the tread wall, the tires are completely worn out, and need to be replaced, pronto.


Wheels and Tires?

form_title= Wheels and Tires form_header= Keep your car running with new wheels and tires. How many tires do you need? What brand do your normally buy?*= _ [50] Does your car require specialty tires?*= () Yes () No


Is it okay to put discount tires on your car?

There is no reason that you can not put discount tires on your car. These tires are usually brand name tires that are sold at discount prices. Regardless of the discount, you should still have a warranty on these tires.


How are car tires made?

tires are made out of rubber, in a factory