Tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, being the only point of contact between your car and the road. But how much do you really know about the tires on your car? If you live in the Springfield area, it's important to understand what the various numbers and codes mean on your tire sidewalls.
Tire Width
The first number in the tire size refers to the tire's width in millimeters. This is measured from sidewall to sidewall. For example, in a tire size P215/65 R15, the width is 215 millimeters. Having the right tire width is crucial for proper handling and ride comfort.
Drivers in the Columbus region should ensure their tires are the appropriate width for their specific make and model vehicle.
Aspect Ratio
Following the forward slash after the tire width, the next number is the aspect ratio. This is the height of the sidewall expressed as a percentage of the width. In our example size of P215/65 R15, the 65 means that the height is equal to 65% of the tire's width.
A lower aspect ratio like that commonly seen on sports cars in the Dayton area means a shorter sidewall, which provides quicker handling but a harsher ride. Higher aspect ratios offer a smoother ride.
Internal Construction
After the aspect ratio, there will generally be a letter - either R, D, or B. This refers to the internal construction of the tire. R stands for radial, the industry standard for most passenger vehicles today. D means diagonal construction, while B signifies belted bias construction.
For Cincinnati drivers, radial tires provide the best blend of ride comfort, handling, and tread wear.
Wheel Diameter
The last number in the sequence is the diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire is intended to fit. In our P215/65 R15 example, the tire is meant for a 15-inch wheel. It's essential to match this tire size number to the actual wheels on your vehicle.
Motorists in the Beavercreek area can visit our service center at Jeff Wyler Springfield Chevrolet if they have any questions about reading tire sizes or need a new set of tires.
Get Help Deciphering Tire Codes
While it may seem complex initially, understanding the numbers on your tire sidewall is fairly straightforward once you know what each part represents. And it's an important part of vehicle ownership - having the right size tires on your car is vital for safety, performance, and fuel economy.
If you need assistance selecting tires for your vehicle, the Jeff Wyler Springfield Chevrolet experts are ready to help. Our service professionals can guide you to the ideal tire for your specific make and model. Schedule a service appointment today and let us help keep your vehicle rolling smoothly and safely, no matter where the road takes you.