Information on the tyre sidewall

This information identifies and describes the basic characteristics of the tire and provides the Tire Identification Number (TIN) for certification of safety standards. This number can be used to identify the tire in case of a recall.

1. Manufacturer or Brand

The name of the manufacturer or brand is shown.

2. Tire Size Designation

The size is marked on the sidewall of the tire. This information is required when replacing tires. The meaning of the letters and numbers in the tire size designation is described below.

Example of tire size designation: (These numbers are given as an example only; the size designation may vary depending on the vehicle).

175/70R14 64T

175 - Tire width in mm.

70 - Aspect ratio. The height of the tire section in relation to its width.

R - Tire construction code (radial).

14 - Rim diameter in inches.

64 - Load index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry.

T - Speed rating. See the speed rating chart for further information.

Wheel Size Designation

The wheels also carry important information needed when replacing them.

The meaning of the letters and numbers in the wheel size designation is described below.

Example of wheel size designation

5.0JX14

5.0 - Rim width in inches.

J - Rim flange profile designation.

14 - Rim diameter in inches.

Tire Speed Ratings

The chart below lists the various speed ratings used on tires for passenger vehicles.

This rating is part of the size designation marked on the tire sidewall. The symbol corresponds to the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate.

3. Tire Age Check (TIN: Tire Identification Number)

Tires more than 6 years old, calculated from the date of manufacture, (including the spare tire) must be replaced. The date of manufacture is located on the sidewall of the tire (or inside the wheel), within the DOT code. The DOT code is a series of numbers and letters. The date of manufacture is in the last four digits of the code.

DOT : XXXX XXXX OOOO

The DOT includes: plant code number, tire size, tread pattern and the last four numbers indicating the week and year of manufacture.

For example: DOT XXXX XXXX 1613 indicates that the tire was manufactured in the 16th week of 2013.

WARNING - Tire Age. Tires degrade over time, even if they are not used. Regardless of the remaining tread, it is recommended to replace tires generally after 6 (six) years of normal service. Heat from hot climates or frequent conditions of heavy load can accelerate the aging process. If this warning is not observed, the tire may suddenly fail, causing loss of control and an accident with injuries or death.

4. Tire Structure and Materials

Number of rubber structure layers (plies) in the tire. Manufacturers must also indicate the tire materials, including steel, nylon, polyester and others. The letter "R" indicates radial construction, "D" indicates diagonal (bias) construction and "B" indicates belted construction.

5. Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure

This is the maximum pressure that can be put into the tire. Do not exceed the maximum value. Refer to the tire load information label for the maximum inflation pressure.

6. Maximum Load

Indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that the tire can carry. When replacing tires, always use a tire with the same load capacity as the tire fitted at the factory.

7. Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Where applicable, the quality grade is located on the sidewall, between the tread shoulder and the maximum section width.

For example:

TREADWEAR 200

TRACTION AA

TEMPERATURE A

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specific government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 will wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.

However, the actual performance of tyres depends on actual driving conditions and may differ significantly from the norm, due to variations in driving style and use, and due to differing road and climate characteristics.

The grades are indicated on the sidewall of the passenger-side tyres.

The tyres available as standard or optional equipment on the vehicle may vary by grade.

Traction - AA, A, B and C

The traction grades, in descending order, are AA, A, B and C. They represent the tyre's ability to stop on wet surfaces, measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt or concrete. A tyre marked C has poor traction.

WARNING The traction grade assigned to the tire is based on straight-line braking traction tests and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature - A, B and C

The temperature grades are A (highest), B and C, and represent the tyre's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.

Sustained high temperature can cause the tyre material to degenerate and reduce tyre life, and excessive temperature can cause sudden tyre failure. The B and A grades represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test than the minimum required by law.

WARNING - Tire Temperature. The temperature grade of the tire is given for a correctly inflated and not overloaded tire. Excessive speed, insufficient inflation or excessive load, alone or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible tire failure. Loss of vehicle control and serious injury or death may result.