Wondering what do the numbers on tyres mean?
To get a better understanding of the tyre markings and the size of your tyres, watch the following video:
If you are still confused by the writing on your tyre or want to understand the tyre rating chart, our experts are here to guide you. Get in touch with us and one of our expert mobile technicians will be happy to help you. We will advise whether you need new tyres, simply call us on 1300 687 000 or contact us here
A detailed explanation of tyre specifications
The markings on a tyre may look confusing but they are actually very important. Each marking provides a vital piece of information about the specification of each tyre. This includes information such as the maximum speed the tyre can safely sustain, the loads it can carry and the relevant safety standards.
If you are looking for a guide with the tyre markings explained in Australia, the following will be of great help. From enabling you to understand the tyres speed rating codes to the tyre date code, the tire writing and lettering provide you with a lot of information.
- The width of tyre in mm.
- Aspect Ratio of the tyre. The height of the tyre sidewall as a percentage of the width. In this case it would be XX% of XXmm.
- The Tyre construction type. EG Radial.
- The diameter of the tyres inner rim in inches.
- The load capacity (see below for more information)
- The speed rating (see below for more information)
- Indicates tyres are suitable for mud and snow (appears on applicable tyres only).
- Date of manufacture XX week then XX year.
- DOT Code indicates the tyres are compliant with Australian approvals
- Denotes direction of tyre rotation when fitted.
Load Rating Chart
Load Index | Kgs | Load Index | Kgs | Load Index | Kgs |
65 | 290 | 80 | 450 | 95 | 690 |
66 | 300 | 81 | 462 | 96 | 710 |
67 | 307 | 82 | 475 | 97 | 730 |
68 | 215 | 83 | 487 | 98 | 750 |
69 | 325 | 84 | 500 | 99 | 775 |
70 | 335 | 85 | 515 | 100 | 800 |
71 | 345 | 86 | 530 | 101 | 825 |
72 | 355 | 87 | 545 | 102 | 850 |
73 | 365 | 88 | 560 | 103 | 875 |
74 | 375 | 89 | 580 | 104 | 900 |
75 | 387 | 90 | 600 | 105 | 925 |
76 | 400 | 91 | 615 | 106 | 950 |
77 | 412 | 92 | 630 | 107 | 975 |
78 | 425 | 93 | 650 | 108 | 1000 |
79 | 437 | 94 | 670 |
Speed Rating Chart
Speed Symbol | Approx MPH | Approx KM/H |
Q | 99 | 160 |
R | 106 | 170 |
S | 112 | 180 |
T | 118 | 190 |
H | 131 | 210 |
V | 149 | 240 |
VR | 131 | 210 |
W | 168 | 270 |
Y | 186 | 300 |
ZR | 149 | 240 |