Buying a new set of tires is about more than driving conditions, tread designs, or how many you need to replace. If you want your car to function at its maximum potential, tire size is actually one of the most important details to consider before you make a tire purchase. There are a lot of different tire sizes out there, but only one will be the ideal fit for the make and model of your vehicle. Luckily, finding the recommended tire size is pretty simple—you just have to know where to look.
Here’s how to read tire size to ensure you’re choosing the perfect set of wheels for your vehicle.
Your vehicle is optimized to fit a certain tire size, so it’s important to stick to that recommendation or very close to it. Having the wrong size tires on your vehicle can lead to a host of problems like limited steering and handling capabilities, inaccurate speedometer readouts and even disabled antilock brakes and essential engine systems. Beyond safety concerns, the wrong size tires can also cause costly damage to your vehicle rendering it undriveable. While some people choose to upsize their tires, it’s not recommended for the average car owner. If you’re unsure how to find the right tire size, the expert technicians at Firestone Direct can help—and they’ll make installation easy by coming to you to replace your old tires.
Tire size is expressed using a code consisting of letters and numbers. It will look something like this:
P 215/65 R15 95H
The main figures to pay attention to are the tire class (P for Passenger in the example above) and the wheel or rim diameter (15 in the example above).
The other figures in the tire code refer to the tire width, aspect ratio and tire construction type.
There are a few different ways to determine the right tire size for your car.
If you’re in the market for a new set of tires, the most straightforward way to find out what tire size you need is to check your current tires. You already know they are the right size, so it makes sense to stick with the same. Check the inner sidewall of your tires for a tire size that resembles the example above.
Your owner’s manual will include the recommended tire size for your vehicle. Find it in the tire section or look up the manufacturer online to find the tire size they recommend for your vehicle make and model.
The recommended tire size should also be printed on a sticker placed somewhere on the driver’s side door jamb. The code will be similar to the example above.
If you don’t want to risk interpreting tire size incorrectly, you can always call the mobile mechanics at Firestone Direct. We’ll ask you for details about your vehicle and your current tires and recommend the right size. You can then purchase tires directly from our website, and we’ll deliver your tires and install them for you in a single appointment.