How do I know what tire size I need?

Knowing your vehicle’s tire size is essential for purchasing the correct tires and ensuring proper fit and performance. Here's how you can easily determine the tire size you need:

1. Check the Sidewall of Your Current Tires

The tire size is printed directly on the sidewall of your tire. It is usually a series of numbers and letters, such as P225/65R17. This code contains important information about the tire's dimensions and specifications.
Example: P225/65R17
- P: Tire type (P stands for "P-metric," which is a standard passenger vehicle tire).
- 225: Tire width in millimeters (225mm in this case).
- 65: Aspect ratio (the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the tire’s width). Here, the sidewall height is 65% of the tire width.
- R: Tire construction (R stands for "Radial," which is the most common tire construction).
- 17: Wheel diameter in inches (this tire fits a 17-inch wheel).

2. Check the Vehicle’s Owner Manual

The owner’s manual for your vehicle contains the recommended tire size, including specifications for tire width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter. This is often found in the section on tire maintenance.

3. Look at the Vehicle’s Tire Information Sticker

Most vehicles have a tire information sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb (inside the door frame). This sticker includes the recommended tire size, tire pressure, and load rating.

4. Consult an Online Tire Size Guide

Many tire manufacturer websites or tire retailer sites have tools where you can input your vehicle’s make, model, and year to find the recommended tire size. These guides ensure you get the correct size for your specific vehicle.

5. Speak to a Tire Professional

If you’re unsure about the size, consult a professional at a tire shop or contact a mobile tire service. They can help you identify the right tire size and recommend the best options for your vehicle.

Additional Tire Specifications:

In addition to the basic tire size, you might also see other specifications on the tire sidewall or tire information sticker:

Load Index: Indicates the maximum weight the tire can safely carry. It’s typically a two- or three-digit number (e.g., 95), and you can refer to load index charts to see the corresponding weight.
Speed Rating: A letter that indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate (e.g., H for 130 mph or 210 km/h).

Example of a Full Tire Size Code:

P225/65R17 95H

P: Passenger car tire.
225: Width of the tire in millimeters.
65: Aspect ratio.
R: Radial construction.
17: Diameter of the wheel (in inches).
95: Load index.
H: Speed rating.

Conclusion:

To find the correct tire size, check your current tires’ sidewall, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual, or look at the tire information sticker. Understanding these numbers ensures you purchase the right tires, enhancing safety and performance.