How to read your tyres – what the markings on the rubber REALLY mean

IT is important to know what the different markings on your tyres mean, especially when it’s time to change them.

The sidewalls of your tyres have a combination of letters and numbers that might be tricky to interpret- here we explain how to read them.

1

The first three digits show the width in millimetres.

This means that if for example, your first three digits are 235, the tyre measures exactly 235mm from one side to the other.

The next two digits indicate the height of the tyre as a percentage of the tyre width.

For example, if the number is 55, it means the height of the tyre is 55 per cent of the tyre width.

The next marking is a letter that suggests the type of construction.

Tyres marked with the letter “R” are radial tyres which means they have been designed with the cord plies arranged at 90 degrees giving the tyre extra strength.

The majority of tyres nowadays are manufactured this way.

The next number indicates the rim diameter.

This means it shows the size of the wheel rim that the tyre can fit onto.

If the tyre is marked “20”, the driver should be aware it will fit onto a 20-inch wheel rim.

The following number represents the load index.

It helps drivers to know the maximum carrying capacity of their tyres in kilos.

Lastly, the final digit reveals the speeding rating of your tyres.

This means drivers will be able to find out the maximum speed for their tyres when they are correctly inflated.

It’s important to remember to fit the right speed-rated tyre for your vehicle.

Here you can find out how to clean your tyres using a household item.