What Do the Codes on Tyres Represent
Have you ever looked at the side of your tyre and wondered what all those numbers and letters mean? Those codes provide important details about your tyre's size, strength, speed limits, and the date it was manufactured.
Understanding them helps you pick the right tyres for your car.
Tyre Size Code: The Basics
The main code on your tyre looks like this: 205/55R16. This is the tyre size, and each part has a meaning:
- 205: This is the width of the tyre in millimetres, from one side to the other.
- 55: This is the aspect ratio. It shows the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. So, 55 means the height is 55% of 205 mm.
- R: This stands for "Radial," which is how the tyre is built inside. Most modern tyres are radial for better handling and fuel use.
- 16: This is the rim diameter in inches, the size of the wheel it fits on.
Load Index and Speed Rating
After the size, you'll see something like 91V. This is the service description:
- 91: This is the load index. It tells how much weight one tyre can carry safely when inflated correctly.
- V: This is the speed rating. It shows the top speed the tyre can handle for a long time without failing.
Load Index Chart
Here's a table of common load indexes and what they mean:
Load Index |
Max Load (kg) |
Max Load (lbs) |
|
70 |
335 |
739 |
|
75 |
387 |
853 |
|
80 |
450 |
992 |
|
85 |
515 |
1135 |
|
90 |
600 |
1323 |
|
91 |
615 |
1356 |
|
95 |
690 |
1521 |
|
100 |
800 |
1764 |
|
105 |
925 |
2039 |
|
110 |
1060 |
2337 |
Speed Rating Chart
Speed Symbol |
Max Speed (km/h) |
Max Speed (mph) |
|
L |
120 |
75 |
|
M |
130 |
81 |
|
N |
140 |
87 |
|
P |
150 |
93 |
|
Q |
160 |
99 |
|
R |
170 |
106 |
|
S |
180 |
112 |
|
T |
190 |
118 |
|
U |
200 |
124 |
|
H |
210 |
130 |
|
V |
240 |
149 |
|
W |
270 |
168 |
|
Y |
300 |
186 |
|
(Y) |
>300 |
>186 |
DOT Code: When Was Your Tyre Made?
Look for "DOT" followed by letters and numbers, like DOT ABCD 4723. The last four digits are key:
- 47: The week of the year (1-52).
- 23: The year (2023).
So, 4723 means the 47th week of 2023. Tyres older than 5 years can be risky, even if unused, because rubber breaks down in the UAE's sun and heat. Always buy fresh tyres, check for dates like XX25 for 2025.
Other Important Markings
- Treadwear, Traction, Temperature (UTQG): Rates wear (higher number = longer life), wet grip (AA best), and heat resistance (A best).
- M+S or 3PMSF: For mud and snow, useful if you travel outside UAE.
- Max Pressure and Load: Don't exceed these.
- Homologation Marks: Like "E" for Europe, but in UAE, look for authentic marks to avoid fakes.
Tips for UAE Drivers
UAE's hot climate makes tyres wear faster, so check codes regularly. Use tyres with good heat ratings. If you modify your car, get RTA approval for the new tyre sizes. Rotate tyres every 10,000 km for even wear.
FAQs
What does 205/55R16 mean on a tyre?
It breaks down to width (205 mm), aspect ratio (55%), construction (R for radial), and rim size (16 inches).
How do I read the DOT code on my tyre?
The last four digits show the week and year made, like 0125 for the first week of 2025.
What is a good load index for UAE roads?
It depends on your car, but common ones like 91 support about 615 kg per tyre. Check your manual.
Can I use tyres with a lower speed rating?
No, always match or go higher than your car's spec for safety.
How old should tyres be in the UAE?
Avoid tyres over 5 years old due to heat damage. Check the DOT date.
What markings show a tyre is authentic in UAE?
Look for clear DOT codes, brand names, and buy from reputable dealers to avoid fakes.
