The right tyre size is necessary to provide optimum handling, fuel efficiency and comfort. Driving with an inappropriate tyre size not only compromises performance but also affects vehicle safety. The user manual provides complete information regarding the ideal tyre size as per the vehicle. However, with a plethora of numbers and letters involved, choosing the right tyre size can be daunting for many.
For your convenience, here we have elaborated on car tyre size in detail.
Car Tyre Sizes Explained
The evolution of car tyres results in the creation of multiple tyres ranging from vehicle-specific to speed-specific ones. Along with the convenience, multiple options also create confusion when selecting the right tyre size.
Usually, experts suggest going through the car owner’s manual as it contains all the information regarding the tyre size. Besides manuals, the information is also present on the vehicle’s placard on the driver’s side door, inside the glove box or under the hood.
The placard usually contains information regarding the accurate tyre size, inflation pressure and wheels. The information is usually in the form of a code like ‘215/60 R16, providing information regarding the appropriate width, aspect ratio, tyre construction and rim.
Besides, you can also read the tyre size manually through the code present on the tyre that is being currently used. However, there are a few dimensions that you must be aware of to decode the size.
- Width: The width is the distance between the inner tyre wall to the outer tyre wall measured in millimetres.
- Tyre Profile: The tyre profile or aspect ratio represents the ratio between the tyre’s sidewall height and width. The profile is usually expressed in percentage which helps in distinguishing between different types of tyres.
- Load Index: The maximum load capacity and speed at which a tyre can provide optimum performance.
- Rim: It explains the diameter of the car rim in inches.
- Tyre Construction: Elaborates on the method used for tyre construction.
How to Read Car Tyre Size
Now that you are aware of all the basic terms necessary for the tyre size guide. Let’s discuss how to read tyre size correctly manually.
Consider the number ‘206/60R15 91V’ as an example.
- 206: It represents the width of a tyre
- /60: Showing the aspect ratio in percentage
- R15: Indicates the type of rim used in car
- 91: It shows the maximum load capacity of the tyre
- V: It represents the maximum speed of tyres
How to Select the Right Tyre Size
Following are the steps to select the right tyre size for your vehicle.
Step 1: Check the Tyre Size
The first step when choosing the right tyre is to check the actual tyre size. For this, you can either opt for a user’s manual or read through the information present on a placard.
Step 2: Consider Driving Condition
Consider the typical driving conditions and choose the tyre size accordingly. For instance; if you are driving in a city, normal-size tyres will work fine. However, for off-roading, large tyres are required.
Step 3: Look at the Speed Rating
Speed rating presents the top speed at which a tyre can be operated safely. Here is the complete chart of speed symbols and speed ratings of tyres.
Step 4: Opt for Accurate Load Index
The maximum load capacity of each tyre size is different. Check the load index and the
maximum load the tyres can bear.
If you are planning to buy tyres, here are some places to buy tyres in Dubai.
FAQs
How much will it cost to replace tyres in Dubai?
The cost of replacing tyres starts from AED 500 and can range up to AED 16,000. Here is when to replace your car tyres in the UAE.
How long do tyres last in the UAE?
The average lifespan of tyres in the Emirates is around 5 years.
Can I buy used tyres in the UAE?
Yes, you can buy used tyres in the UAE. Besides, you can browse through these used tyres for sale in the UAE and choose from an array of options.
This was the complete car tyre size guide. Accurate car tyres are necessary to ensure maximum safety and handling. New vehicles come with company-fitted tyres that are appropriate. However, when buying used cars for sale in the UAE, it is necessary to check the tyre size.
Besides tyre size, it is also recommended to check the tyre treads to ensure maximum grip. Here is how to check your tyre tread depth efficiently.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on car tyres.
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