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Tires are more than just rubber, they are complex technologies critical to safety and performance. Know about specifications like size and tire

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  • Tires are more than just rubber, they are complex technologies critical to safety and performance. Learn about tire specifications like size and type to make an informed choice when shopping for a replacement.

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Checking that your car’s tire pressure is at the correct level before driving is important to maintain an even tread pattern on the tyre. This helps maintain optimal grip levels at all times.

If your tires need replacing, but you don’t know which tire to get or which one is right for your specific needs, you need to educate yourself before making a purchase. Tires are more than just rubber parts found on the road; They are complex pieces of technology required for safety, comfort, and performance. When shopping for tires, it’s helpful to know terms like size, width, profile, and different types.

tire size

You can find the tire size written on the side wall which faces outwards when installed on a vehicle. The marking on the tire looks something like ‘205/55 R16 91V’. Each number and letter mentioned in this notation has a specific meaning. To explain:

‘205’

The first, usually three-digit number, represents the tire width in millimeters. Technically, this refers to the distance from one sidewall to the other. Tire width affects the grip, handling and fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Wider tires generally provide better grip and stability, especially at high speeds, but fuel efficiency may be slightly reduced due to increased rolling resistance. Narrow tires are better for fuel efficiency and can be beneficial in wet or snowy conditions as they cut through water more easily, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

’55’

The second number after the slash, usually two digits, is the tire’s profile. Profile means the height of the sidewall which can also be calculated from the edge of the wheel’s alloy or rim to the outer circumference of the tyre. It is expressed as a percentage of the tire width. So if the number here is ’55’, it means that the height of the tire is 55 percent of its width. Tire profile (or aspect ratio) is important because it affects ride comfort and handling characteristics. High-profile tires (those with a higher aspect ratio) have higher sidewall height, which can better absorb road shock, making for a more comfortable ride. Low-profile tires (those with a low aspect ratio) have low sidewall height, which can improve handling but make the ride harsh because they absorb less impact from bumps.

‘R’

The letters stand for ‘radial construction’, which is the standard type of construction for modern passenger car tyres.

’16’

The two-digit number after the letter R is the wheel diameter (or rim size) in inches, which tells you what wheel size the tire fits. If you have a 17-inch wheel, you can only fit a 17-inch size tire on it.

’91’

The last two digits on the tire are usually the load index of the tire which indicates the load the tire can handle. However, it also depends on the condition of your tyres, including their age, fitting and recommended pressure.

‘V’

The last letter on your tire is your tire’s maximum speed rating. Different letters universally refer to different speeds that a tire can handle under the conditions. You’ll want to choose a rating that’s slightly higher than your vehicle’s top speed to be safe. Below is a chart of what each rating represents:

rating Speed ​​(in kmph)
l 120
m 130
n 140
P 150
Why 160
R 170
S 180
Tea 190
You 200
h 210
V 240
w 270
Y 300

Understanding these numbers can help you choose the right tire for your vehicle.

types of tires

Tires come in a variety of types, each designed for specific driving conditions or needs.

summer tires

Summer tires are adapted to hot, dry and slightly wet conditions. They provide excellent grip and handling but can harden in very cold temperatures, reducing effectiveness.

winter Tyres

Winter tires are made of soft rubber that remains flexible in cold conditions, they have deep tread patterns to improve grip on snow and ice. They are not suitable for hot climates as they spoil quickly.

all season tires

An all-season tire is a hybrid option designed to perform appropriately in both summer and winter conditions. They are a good choice for mild weather, but may not provide the same grip as specialized summer or winter tires.

RELATED WATCH: How to Change a Flat Tire | All things auto | HT Auto

performance tires

Performance tires are developed for high speed driving, they provide superior handling, braking and grip. Often used in sports cars, these tires prioritize performance over comfort or fuel efficiency.

off-road tires

Off-road tires get deeper tread patterns for better grip on dirt, sand and gravel. These tires are ideal for SUVs and vehicles that frequently drive on unpaved roads.

run-flat tire

Run-flat tires allow you to drive for a limited distance even after a puncture, providing a level of comfort and safety. However, they can be more expensive and give a rougher ride.

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First publication date: 31 October 2024, 15:00 PM IST

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