How to Read the Sidewall of a Tire

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“P” indicates passenger or performance tires.

“LT” would indicate light truck tires.

Section Width: the three-digit numeric portion identifies the tire’s section width (cross section) in millimeters.

Aspect Ratio: is the height of the tire. Typically, a higher number means a taller tire. If a tire has a lower aspect ratio, it is a higher performing tire. All-season performance tires usually have an aspect ratio between 65 and 80.

Radial: tires build with perpendicular plies across the crown of the tire, effectively strengthening the tread for street driving. These tires also require belt plies going circumferentially around the tire for solidarity purposes.

Diameter: the measured distance that extends from one bead seat to another across a wheel. The wheel diameter must be exactly the same as the tire rim diameter. Always make sure that the diameter stamped on the wheel and tire match exactly