How to read your tire sidewall in 60 seconds

Every tire carries its spec sheet right on the sidewall. Take a size like 225/45R18 95V:

The size

• 225 is the tire width in millimetres
• 45 is the aspect ratio. The sidewall height is 45% of the width
• R means radial construction
• 18 is the wheel diameter in inches

Load and speed

• 95 is the load index. It maps to the maximum weight each tire can carry
• V is the speed rating. Match or beat what your vehicle manual calls for

How old is it?

Find the DOT code. The last four digits are the week and year it was made. 3224 means week 32 of 2024. Rubber ages even when tread looks fine, so keep an eye on tires older than six years.

Winter markings

The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol means the tire passed a severe-snow traction test. M+S alone is not the same thing.

Not sure what fits your car? Bring it in and we will read it with you.