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When you look on the side of the tires on your car, you are likely to see a series of numbers and letters. These automotive tire numbers tell you and, perhaps more importantly, the person who installs your tires, information about the type of tire on your car.
Identification
The automobile tire number can be broken into six distinct segments, each of which provides its own piece of information.
Types of Letters
At the start of the tire, a "P" or no letter at all indicates a car tire, while a "LT" indicates a truck tire. The letter at the end is a code for the maximum speed for which the tire is rated. Normally, in the middle of the number, you will see an "R," which indicates you have a radial tire.
Size
The first two numbers following the automotive tire number correspond to the width of the tire in millimeters. The numbers after the "R" refer to the diameter of the tire in inches.
Features
The second set of numbers on the tire is the aspect ratio, which gives you an idea of how tall your tire is compared to how wide it is. Taller tires with higher numbers provide a smoother drive, while shorter tires with lower numbers respond better when you turn the wheel, according to A & F Tire and Battery, located in New York.
Considerations
The final set of numbers that appear before the last letter in the automotive tire number provides the load index, or how much weight the tire can carry. It is important not to purchase a tire with a lower load index than the ones originally installed on your car at the time of purchase because your car may be too heavy for the tires.
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