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How to Read a Tire Sidewall

Diagram of how to read a tire sidewall

  1. The peaked mountain with snowflake symbol indicates a snow tire.
  2. M+S (Mud and Snow) indicates an all-season tire.
  3. P stands for Passenger vehicle (or you may find L for Light-Duty Vehicle)
  4. 195 is the width of the tire in millimeters.
  5. 60 is the "aspect ratio" - the ratio of the height of the sidewall to the width, expressed as a percentage.
  6. R Means the tire has radial construction
  7. 15 represents the wheel diameter in inches.
  8. 87 is the load index.
  9. Q is the speed rating.