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Car tires are graded in multiple ways to help consumers get the best tire for their vehicle. These ratings are based on the car's size and what the car is used for.
Types
Tires for passenger cars are identified with a "P" at the start of the tire information, while tires for light trucks have an "LT" at the start.
Tire Size
The first three numbers on a tire's code represent the width of the tire, measured in millimeters.
Speed Rating
The speed rating corresponds to the maximum safe speed at which the tire can be used. A letter of the alphabet is used in the tire information code.
Load Index
The load index represent how many pounds the tire can carry. The number on the tire ranges from 71, which represents a capacity of 761 pounds, to 110, which represents a capacity of 2,337 pounds.
Load Range
The load range represents the horizontal strength of the tire and uses a letter to represent the strength of the tire. The further along in the alphabet the letter is, the stronger the tire. Horizontal strength is particularly important when towing trailers.
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