What are the different kinds of car tire ratings?
Car tires are rated for load index, speed, treadwear, traction, and temperature - understanding these five ratings helps you choose a tire that safely matches your car and driving style.
Every tire carries a set of ratings on the sidewall that tell you how it will perform in key areas. Understanding these ratings helps you choose a tire that matches your driving needs and meets your vehicle's requirements.
1. Load Index
A number indicating the maximum weight each tire can support when fully inflated. For example, a load index of 91 means the tire can carry up to 1,356 lbs. Always match or exceed your vehicle's required load index.
2. Speed Rating
A letter indicating the maximum sustained speed the tire is designed for. Common ratings: S (112 mph), T (118 mph), H (130 mph), V (149 mph), W (168 mph), Y (186 mph). Match or exceed your vehicle's requirement.
3. UTQG Treadwear Rating
A number comparing expected tread life to a reference tire. Higher numbers indicate longer tread life. A 400 treadwear tire should last roughly twice as long as a 200 treadwear tire under the same conditions.
4. UTQG Traction Rating
Rates the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement, from AA (best) to C (lowest). Higher traction ratings mean shorter wet stopping distances.
5. UTQG Temperature Rating
Rates the tire's ability to dissipate heat at high speed, from A (best) to C. A higher temperature rating reduces the risk of heat-related failure during sustained high-speed driving.
For help applying these ratings to your specific car and driving needs, contact our team.