230 Car care and technical information
Aspect ratio: A two-digit number that indi-
cates the tire height-to-width measure-
ments. For example, if the tire size aspect
ratio is “55”, as shown in item “C” of the illus-
tration, it would mean that the tire´s sidewall
is 55% as high as it is wide.
Belt Rating: A letter code is used to indicate
the type of ply construction in the tire. The
letter “R” means radial ply construction; the
letter “D” means diagonal or bias ply con-
struction; and the letter “B” means
belted-bias ply construction.
Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in
inches.
Load range: The load range represents the
load carry capacity a tire is certified to carry.
Speed Rating: The maximum speed that a
tire is certified to carry a load. Speed ratings
range from “A” to “Z”.

Tire markings

An example of the meaning of the different
markings in a tire size is given below for a
tire size of:
215/55 R16 93 V
215 Tire section width, mm
55 Aspect ratio, i.e. the section height
is 55 % of the section width
R Radial ply
16 Wheel rim diameter 16 in at bead
seats
93 Tire load code
V Speed marking
Tire load index
91 Tire approved for max. 1355 lbs.
(615 kg)
93 Max. 1433 lbs (650 kg)
94 Max. 1477 lbs (670 kg)
Speed ratings
Q Tire approved for speeds up to
100 mph (160 km/h)
S Max. 112 mph (180 km/h)
T Max. 118 mph (190 km/h)
H Max. 130 mph (210 km/h)
V Max. 150 mph (240 km/h)
W Max. 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y Max. 186 mph (300 km/h)

TIN-code

a Manufacturer´s Identification Mark
b Tire Size
c Tire Type Code
d Date of Manufacture
95_U S_M 07.book Page 230 Friday, June 9, 2006 8:58 AM