What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

If it’s time to order new tires from your local Loveland auto parts store or tire shop, you’ve more than likely seen the complex numbers and letters listed on the tire sidewall. So, you’re probably curious, “What do tire numbers mean?” The tire number meaning is a code indicating the size and type of tire and its specific performance purpose. If you need to decide which tires to get or are simply wondering what the numbers on tires mean, find out here or contact our parts center team near Denver.

Tire Number Meanings

A tire’s number is a code of a series of letters and numbers that inform the buyer of essential aspects of the tire, including:

• Size
• Load index
• Speed rating
• Type of tire

Below is an example:

Example: P215/65R15 95H

It may seem like gibberish at first, but each code section represents a vital piece of information to identify the tire type correctly.

Decoding “P”

The “P” means “P-Metric tire,” which is used for passenger vehicles. If the tire says “LT,” this stands for “light truck,” and the tire is used on lightweight pickup trucks. If the tire on your new BMW doesn’t have a letter preceding the code, it’s a European-style tire, or Euro-Metric tire. Those have different load capacities.

Decoding “215”

Following the “P” is “215”, which represents the tire width (in millimeters) from the sidewall to the other sidewall. So in the above example, the width is 215 millimeters.

Decoding “65”

After the forward slash is the aspect ratio code, which in the example is “65.” A tire’s ratio is the height of the cross-section to its width, and this tire has an aspect ratio where its height is 65% of the tire’s total width. The bigger the aspect ratio, the larger the sidewalls will be.

Decoding “R”

The “R” represents the tire’s construction, with “R” meaning that it’s a radial.

Decoding “15”

“15” stands for the wheel size from one end to the other, indicating what tire can fit on this particular wheel. This code tells us that this tire is for a 15-inch wheel.

Decoding “95H”

At the end of the tire code is “95H,” which is the tire’s load index and speed rating. The load index indicates how much weight the tire supports when adequately inflated and ranges from 75-105 for passenger vehicles. “H” is the speed rating, which is how fast the tire can safely travel based on load capacity. This rating is ranked from A-Z; with the above example, a tire with an “H” rating can go up to 130 mph.

How to Check Tire Pressure 

Now that you know what the number on tires mean, remember that one way to keep them from wearing out prematurely on Boulder roads is to ensure they are adequately inflated. Checking your BMW’s tire pressure is quick and easy. Most new BMWs have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), so if your vehicle’s tires are over or under-inflated, you’ll receive a TPMS warning notification. Simply take your vehicle to a gas station to top off the air in your tires, or contact the BMW of Loveland service center.

Trust BMW of Loveland for All Your Auto Maintenance Needs

If you require new tires, brakes, or car parts, turn to the %di_name%% service center near Fort Collins for your needs! You can schedule service online. Just add your VIN and contact information, so our BMW service technicians will have all the details they need, and if you have any questions, contact us today.