24/7 EMERGENCY MOBILE TYRE FITTING
However, these numbers actually provide important information about your tyre, including its size, strength, and performance limits. Knowing how to read these markings can help you choose the correct replacement tyre for your vehicle.
If you ever need emergency tyre repair near me in Banbury, our technicians can also check your tyre markings and ensure the correct tyre is fitted safely.
Below is a simple guide to help you understand the most important tyre markings.
ROADSIDE SAFETY FIRST
Our technicians are fully trained in strict roadside safety procedures. We operate high-visibility service vehicles and advanced safety lighting systems to maintain a secure working environment while replacing your tyre at the roadside or hard shoulder.
LOCKING WHEEL NUT REMOVAL
Lost your locking wheel nut key? No problem. Our fully equipped emergency vans carry specialist removal tools designed to safely remove locking nuts without causing any damage to your alloy wheels. Reach out to us and we will be there in no time. Emeregnecy Services Available
Tyre Size
Your tyre size is printed on the sidewall of the tyre. It normally looks something like this:
225/55 R16 91V
Each part of this code tells you something about the tyre’s size and capability. When replacing tyres, it’s important to match this information with the correct tyre for your vehicle.
If you’re unsure, you can also check your vehicle handbook or ask a professional tyre technician.
Tyre Width
The first three numbers show the width of the tyre.
Example: 225
This number represents the width of the tyre in millimetres, measured from one sidewall to the other.
So, a tyre marked 225 means the tyre is 225mm wide.
Aspect Ratio (Tyre Profile)
The numbers after the slash (/) represent the aspect ratio, also known as the tyre profile.
Example: 55
This number shows the height of the tyre sidewall as a percentage of the tyre’s width.
For example, if the width is 225mm and the aspect ratio is 55, the sidewall height is 55% of 225mm.
Lower profile tyres are often found on performance cars because they offer improved handling.
Radial Construction
The letter R stands for Radial.
Most modern tyres are radial tyres, which means the internal layers of the tyre are built in a way that improves strength, durability, and road grip.
Radial tyres are now standard on almost all vehicles in the UK.
Wheel Rim Size
The number that appears after the letter R shows the diameter of the wheel rim.
Example: 16
This means the tyre is designed to fit a 16-inch wheel rim.
It’s important to use the correct rim size to ensure the tyre fits properly and performs safely.
Load Rating
The number that appears after the tyre size represents the load index.
Example: 91
This number shows the maximum weight the tyre can safely carry when properly inflated.
Every vehicle requires tyres with the correct load rating, so it’s important not to use tyres that are rated too low for your vehicle.
Speed Rating
The final letter in the tyre marking represents the speed rating.
Example: V
This tells you the maximum speed the tyre is designed to handle safely.
Common speed ratings include:
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H – up to 130 mph
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V – up to 149 mph
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W – up to 168 mph
Even if you never drive at these speeds, using the correct speed rating ensures your tyres perform safely.
Can Front and Rear Tyres Be Different Sizes?
Yes, some vehicles are designed with different tyre sizes on the front and rear wheels. This is often seen on high-performance cars where larger rear tyres improve grip and handling.
However, tyres on the same axle must always match. For example:
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Both front tyres must be the same size
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Both rear tyres must be the same size
Fitting different tyre sizes on the same axle can affect your vehicle’s stability and safety.
If you’re unsure which tyre size your car needs, our technicians can quickly check this for you.