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How to Read a Tire

How to Read a Tire

Posted by Custom Wheel Outlet on Aug 11th 2023

Have you ever wondered, "What size tire do I need?" or "What do all these numbers on my tire mean?"

Let's talk about all those numbers on the outside of your tires.

Here is how to read a tire.

The brand is located across the tire and is bold, which is usually followed by the type of tire or tire series.

In this example, Custom Wheel Outlet showcases the:

Nitto Ridge Grappler 35x12.50R20LT 125Q 12P.R. M+S NTGRG B-A02 DOT 73PX LPL1223

The Height and Width is shown as the 35x12.50 - Metric Tires may read with a Width and Aspect Ratio such as 275x65 R20.

"R" Stands for the Radial Construction and the number to the right is the Radius Size of the Wheel. In this example, this Tire is designed to fit on a 20" wheel (rim).

The LT stands for Light Truck. 

Other common acronyms may include: 

  • P - Passenger Tire 
  • LT - Light Truck Tire 
  • ST - Special Trailer Tire 
  • T - Temporary Tire

The 125 is the Load Index which is followed by "Q" or Speed Index. The load index should always be replaced at the same rating or higher for safety. See more about the Load Index Chart.

The speed index is as follows: 

  • L-75mph 
  • M-81mph 
  • N-87mph 
  • P-93mph 
  • Q-99mph 
  • R-106mph 
  • S-112mph 
  • T-118mph 
  • U-124mph 
  • H-130mph 
  • V-149mph 
  • W-168mph 
  • Y-186mph 
  • Z-149mph and higher.

12 PR: Stands for the Ply Rating. Below this is typically the Load Rating and PSI Cold Pressure Rating. See your owners manual for more information.

M+S Stands for Mud and Snow Tire and indicates that this tire is an All-Weather Tire. Sometimes you may see a mountain which represents a Snow Tire or All Weather Tire rated for really weather conditions.

NTGRG B-A02 is the Manufacture Product Code, and is followed by a code for the Department of Transportation: DOT 73PX LPL 1223. Finally, those last four digits "1223" indicate the week (12th week) and year (2023) your tires were manufactured. You should always consider replacing your tires if they are more than 6-years old.

If you are in need of new tires, contact us at https://ShopCWO.com