Guide to tyre wall markings

We’ve all had them moments of wonder where we notice the writings on tyres right, so what do they mean?

The markings on tyre walls are predominantly there for two reasons, the first is to indicate the size and specifications of the tyre and the second reason is to prove that the tyre has passed European and other countries safety standards.

Being in the tyre industry we make it our business to know everything that there is to know about tyres. We are able to advise you on every aspect of tyre safety, specification and suitability. We stock a wide range of tyres to suit all budgets, and can supply and fit them on our premises or we can alternatively do come to you and fit it using our mobile service.

1. Type Of Construction

The majority of all modern tyres are of Radial construction, as in the example.

2. Load Index

This is a numerical code referring to the maximum load the tyre is able to carry at the speed indicated by the speed symbol. In the example the code is 91 thus the maximum load per tyre is 615kg.

You can see the table below to see the specific load index details for each code:

1. Speed Symbol

This is a letter that indicates the maximum speed the tyre is able to carry the load corresponding to it’s Load Capacity Index. In the example the symbol is V this the maximum speed is 149mph or 240km/h. The most common symbols in the UK are ‘S’, ‘T’,’H’,’V’,’W’ and ‘Y’.

See the table below to locate the specific speed ratings for each symbol:

4. Uniform Tyre Quality Gradings Markings

Required by USA consumer information regulations (not required in UK).

5. Country Of Manufacture

In the example this is Made In Great Britain

6. Brand Name

7. Location Of Tread Wear Indicators

This marking is not always on all tyres. Tread wear indicators are moulded into the base of the main tread grooves and are set at the minimum legal depth of 1.6mm. These act as a visual warning when the tyre tread starts to approach the minimum legal depth.

8. North American Department Of Transportation (DOT) Markings

Compliance symbol and identification number (not required in UK).

9. Manufacturing Date Code

These numbers stand for the week and year the tyre was made. The first two numbers are the week, the second two are the year. In this example, 1607 means the 16th week of 2007.

10. European ECE Type Approval Marks And Numbers

This is to prove that the tyre has been tested and passed European safety standards.
‘S’ = Sound (the tyre complies with EC noise directive).

11. Tyre Construction Details

12. Commercial Name And Identity

13. Max Load/Pressure Information (Not Required In The UK)

Not to be used for setting pressures. Use the vehicle manufacturer recommended pressures.

14. Indicates Exterior Sidewall On Asymmetric Tyres (For Fitting Purposes)

Not to be used for setting pressures. Use the vehicle manufacturer recommended pressures.

15. Tyre Size Designation

This indicates the width, height and construction type of the tyre, as well as the diameter of the wheel it is designed for. In the example, 205/55 R 16 means:

• 205 – the nominal width of the tyre’s cross-section in millimetres.
• 55 – is the ‘aspect ratio’ – the ratio of the sidewall height to the cross-section width.
• R – stands for radial construction.
• 16 – stands for the nominal diameter (in inches) of the wheel that the tyre is designed to fit.

If you are have any doubt about the markings on your tyres, or would just like some advice on anything related to tyres, get in touch with us and speak to one of our experts by calling the telephone number below.