TYRE SIZES

HOW TO READ YOUR TYRE SIZE

Along with the manufacturer's name and the name of the tyre, there's always a set of numbers and letters that relate to the size of the tyre. Here's a rundown on what those numbers mean:

Example 1: 215/60R15 (Below)
• 215 is the width of the tyre in millimetres.
• 60 is the aspect ratio or tyre profile.
• R means it is radial construction.
• 15 is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.

Example 2: DOT EJ8J DFM 408
• 40 - Manufactured during the 40th week of the year.
• 8 - Manufactured during the 8th year of the decade.

Since 2000, the week and year the tire was produced has been provided by the last four digits of the Tire Identification Number with the 2 digits being used to identify the week immediately preceding the 2 digits used to identify the year.

WHAT'S A TYRE PROFILE?

This relates to the depth of the sidewall (the wall at the side of the tyre). The profile is expressed as a percentage of the tyre's width. Eg. Our 215/60R15 tyre has a profile or sidewall that is 60% of the 215mm (width). A low profile tyre is generally 50% or below, down to as little as 30% with ultra low profile tyres. Higher performance vehicles are usually fitted with tyres that have lower profiles.

While low profile tyres give you greater control and better handling on corners, they can give a slightly harder ride. Also, going to a lower profile on the same size wheels will alter your speedometer reading so you'll need to fix that up before you hit the road. Talk to us and we can help you get the right fitment.