P

The "P" indicates the tire is for passenger vehicles.

Nominal Width

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.

Aspect Ratio

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.

Rim diameter code

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.

Load index

This two- or three-digit number is the tire’s load index. It is a measurement of how much weight each tire can support. You may find this information in your owner’s manual. If not, contact a local tire dealer. Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law.

Severe snow conditions

The "M+S" or "M/S" indicates that the tire has some mud and snow capability. Most radial tires have these markings.

Speed Rating

The speed rating identifies the maximum speed a tire can sustain for an extended period of time. The ratings range from 99 miles per hour (mph) to 186 mph. These ratings are listed below.

Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law.

Q	99 mph	H	130 mph
R	106 mph	V	149 mph
S	112 mph	W	168 mph*
T	118 mph	Y	186 mph*
U	124 mph

*For tires with a maximum speed capability over 149 mph, tire manufacturers sometimes use the letters ZR. For those with a maximum speed capability over 186 mph, tire manufacturers always use the letters ZR.

U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number
This begins with the letters "DOT" and indicates the tire meets all federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the manufacturer’s plant code, and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example, the numbers 3197 means the 31st week of 1997.

The other numbers are marketing codes used at the manufacturer’s discretion. This information is used to contact consumers if a tire defect requires a recall.

Tire Ply Composition and Materials Used
The number of plies indicates the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire. In general, the greater the number of plies, the more weight a tire can support. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the materials in the tire, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

Maximum Load Rating
This number indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire.

Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure
This number indicates the most air pressure that can be put in the tire under normal driving conditions

LT

The "LT" indicates the tire is for light trucks.

Max. Load Dual kg(lbs) at kPa(psi) Cold

This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a dual, that is, when four tires are put on each rear axle (a total of six or more tires on the vehicle).

Max. Load Single kg(lbs) at kPa(psi) Cold

This information indicates the maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single.

Load Range

This information identifies the tire’s load-carrying capabilities and its inflation limits.