Purchasing the right set of tires for your vehicle is about more than just buying the first set that you see on sale. There are specific tire measurements and qualities that the tires for your specific vehicle should have. Here is some of the information you need to gather to make sure that the next tires you purchase are a perfect fit for your vehicle.

Breaking Down The Tire Code

• Type Of Tire: The first letter on the side of your tire lets you know what type of tire that you have. This is generally the same letter for all passenger vehicles, P. Commercial vehicles generally have a C on them. This is one of the most overarching and wide measurements.
• Width Of Tire: The first number is the tire width. The tire width is the measurement from one sidewall to the other sidewall on your tire. This measurement is measured in millimeters to ensure the most accurate measurement. The width will always have three digits in it.
• Aspect Ration: After the first letter and number, there will be a slash followed by a two-digit number. This two digit number is the aspect ratio. This is the height of your tire when you measure the cross-section. This measurement is a percentage. For example, if the two-digit number is 45%, that means that the height is 45% of the tire's width. The smaller the number, the smaller the tire's sidewall is. The bigger the number, the larger the tire's sidewall is.
• Radial Construction: Following the two digit number is a letter, R. This R lets you know what type of construction the tire has. The most common type of construction is Radial.
• Diameter of Rim: Following the letter is another set of numbers, which indicates the diameter of the tire in inches.
• Tire's Load Rating: The last number lets you know what the maximum load is that your tire can support when it is properly inflated.
• Tire's Speed Rating: Finally, the last letter is a speed rating. You will want to check your manufacturer's speed rating technology. The lower letters in the alphabet correlate to lower maximum speeds and the later letters in the alphabet relate to higher maximum speeds.

Don't just assume that your current tires are what your vehicle needs. Research your current tires, rims and vehicle type to ensure that you have the correct measurements in hand for your specific vehicle before you head on down to your local tire shop. For more information, contact PDR Automotive Inc or a similar company.