Tire Safety Information

Tire safety information covers the following topics: Tire Markings, Tire Identification Numbers, Tire Terminology and Definitions, Tire Pressure, and Tire Loading.

Tire Markings

1. 1
   U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Safety Standards Code (TIN)
2. 2
   Size Designation
3. 3
   Service Description
4. 4
   Maximum Load
5. 5
   Maximum Pressure
6. 6
   Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades

NOTE:

• P (Passenger) — Metric tire sizes are based on U.S. design standards. P-Metric tires have the letter "P" molded on the sidewall before the size designation. Example: P215/65R15 95H.
• European metric tire sizes are based on European design standards. Tires designed to this standard have the tire size molded at the beginning of the sidewall, followed by the section width. The letter "P" is not included in this tire size designation. Example: 215/65R15 96H.
• LT (Light Truck) — Metric tire sizes are based on U.S. design standards. The size designation for LT-Metric tires is the same as for P-Metric tires, except for the letters "LT" molded on the sidewall before the size designation. Example: LT235/85R16.
• Temporary spare tires are intended for temporary use only in emergency situations. Compact temporary spare tires with high inflation pressure are marked with the letter "T" or "S" on the sidewall before the size designation. Example: T145/80D18 103M.
• Sizing for high-flotation tires is based on U.S. design standards and begins with the tire diameter molded into the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.

Tire Size Chart

Tire Identification Number (TIN)

The TIN may be located on one or both sides of the tire; however, the date code may only be on one side. Tires with white sidewalls will have the complete TIN, including the date code, located on the white side of the tire. Look for the TIN on the outward-facing side of black sidewall tires mounted on the vehicle. If the TIN is not on the outward-facing side, you will find it on the inward-facing side of the tire.

Tire Terminology and Definitions