Tire markings and decoding of symbols on tires for passenger cars and trucks

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12.10.2013

The choice of car tires is always a crucial moment in the life of every motorist. But to independently select the right car tires, you need to know the design features and understand the main markings that are applied to each car tire.

The following combinations of designations of the main parameters are accepted on all car tires:

What kind of inscriptions are found on tires?

1. Indicates the seasonality of the tires (in this case it is winter).
2. Indicates the tire size, where 175 is the profile width, 70 is the percentage of profile height to width, R is the radial design, 13 is the rim diameter.
3. The inscription TUBELESS indicates that the tire is tubeless type.
4. Index of maximum permissible load and speed.
5. Rotation indicates the direction of rotation of the wheel.
6. TWI - wear indicator.
7. Wear, temperature and braking index.
8. Date of manufacture of the tire, where 28 is the serial week, 01 is the last digit of the year (2001).
9. “E” indicates that the tire complies with ECE quality standards; the number after the letter indicates the country of manufacturer.
10. RADIAL – radial design of the product.
11. Indicates the manufacturer or brand.
12. Indicates the side of the tire. INSIDE – internal, OUTSIDE – external.
13. Maximum permissible load.
14. Colored mark. May indicate the densest or thinnest part of a product.
15. Information about the materials used in tire construction.

02-03-dop1

Here is an example calculation for a maximum speed of 185 km/h. We increase the figure by 15%, since such an increase is possible when driving on a long descent or with a strong tailwind. 185x1.15 = 209.3. According to table No. 1, this number is between the values ​​190 and 210. We round it up and get the index H.

Winter tires can be used with lower indexes - the most common are Q (160 km/h) and T (190 km/h). But in no case should you exceed the speed limit of the tires - they will not withstand high centrifugal force.

Now about the carrying capacity. The number 82, for example, indicates that the tire is capable of carrying a load of no more than 475 kg. Determine the minimum required for your vehicle based on the maximum axle load at full vehicle weight. Divide this value by two and in the tables (they are shown in the photo gallery at the bottom of the article) select the closest value, rounding it up. Some tire and car manufacturers recommend increasing the calculated value by 20%, creating a certain reserve.

Basic markings

Tire markings contain a huge variety of different elements. First, we list the most basic of them:

• manufacturer;
• model and type of tread;
• tire size;
• maximum load index;
• speed index;
• maximum permissible pressure value;
• purpose of the product;
• degree of protection;
• operating conditions (seasonality);
• other data.

Below we will look in more detail at what markings there are on tires and what they can mean.

Country and manufacturing company

Each manufacturer puts its logos or designations on the sidewall of the tires. Many brands have production facilities in different countries, and the quality of their products often depends on the place of manufacture. For example, tires of a Japanese brand can be produced in Germany, Poland, Thailand, etc.

Sometimes the products have the inscription: “Made in...”. But how can you find out the country of issue if this is not the case? In this case, the DOT code designation will help. It also encrypts information about the series, plant and date of manufacture. This is a rather complex code; to find out the information, you need to use huge tables or special sites.

But there is an easier way to find out in which country the tires were made - from the alphanumeric designation (E1-E48). The letter means that the product has been certified by the Economic Commission for Europe, and the number indicates the country of the manufacturer.

Conformity table for country of standardization of car tires

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Often they write “Made in...” on the tire and provide information about the manufacturer. If it is not there, you can find out by looking at the DOT code. These are numbers that show the series and date of manufacture of a particular instance, as well as the plant.

In which state certain tires were created can be understood by two letters. Right after the word DOT.

Country code table

1D, H4, EN, EL, EH, EJ, H4, EP, E43

What kind of protector can it be?

Each manufacturer must include the model of their product on the surface. Most brands sell several varieties at once. Within one brand, the lines will differ:

pattern and type of appearance.

This allows you to “change your shoes” all the time from one manufacturer whose quality suits you. All you need to do is select a product based on the wheel diameter and profile. Each product line is designed for certain indicators:

efficiency and life time;

For some, it is more important that the tire last more than a year, while others attach maximum importance to acceleration and moving forward.

If the surface of the rubber is directional, there is always an arrow in the direction of rotation, which shows how to mount correctly. If the tires are asymmetrical, they are embossed with the words Outcide and Incide.

Speed ​​limits

When purchasing a product, it is worth checking what kind of acceleration this thing will allow without harming the car’s capabilities. They are related to the kilometers per hour and speed index shown below.

Model and tread type

On the tire casing, in addition to the brand, the tire model is also indicated. Most manufacturers offer entire product lines, which may differ in the following parameters:

• tread pattern;
• manufacturing materials;
• purpose;
• seasonality.

Within the same model range, car owners can choose the tire diameter and profile that suits their car.

Each model is designed for a specific buyer who cares about a particular speed index, wear resistance or efficiency, etc. For example, the Michelin brand has an Energy model in its assortment - this is an environmentally friendly product that also helps save fuel. For those who prefer an aggressive driving style, Michelin Primacy is available. They provide a high speed index and good handling.

This information is encrypted in alphanumeric designations, which are written immediately after the name of the manufacturer.

By the name of the model it is very easy to determine the tread pattern and its type.

If the product has a directional surface, then an arrow is drawn on it indicating the direction of rotation of the wheel with the inscription “Rotation”. On asymmetrical tires there are Outside and Inside markings, which help when installing the rubber.

Summer

If in winter the driving conditions are very varied, then in summer there is no such problem and the choice is easier to make. First of all, you should remember that using winter tires in summer is not only damage to public roads, but also an unreasonable waste of your own funds. Winter tires are softer, more elastic, and in the summer they wear out quickly, and are more expensive than summer tires.

Excellent modern tires, carefully designed to maintain handling and stability at high speeds - Nexen Classe Premiere. All sizes, including 186/65R15, feature an optimized tread pattern. It reduces movement resistance and increases traction, which ultimately allows you to save fuel and effectively use the vehicle's capabilities.

For wet roads, many drivers of B-class cars recommend the elastic Continental ContiEcoContact 5 tires. This model of tires in size 185/65R15 has low noise levels with excellent grip, excellent handling and excellent braking. When using these tires, rolling is characterized by a low level of resistance, which is achieved due to the improved composition of the rubber mixture. The only drawback of the unique design is the high price.

With a wide range of choices, 185/65R15 tires remain one of the most popular models. Thanks to their versatility and optimal performance, they are well suited to almost any operating conditions. The design features of tires from various manufacturers allow you to enhance their advantages and choose a product to suit your needs.

Source

Tire size

This parameter is one of the most important. Let's look at it using a specific example - a tire marked 195/60 R 14. The number 195 indicates the width of the tire profile. It is measured along the outer boundaries of the side surfaces of the rubber. Various protective belts and other attachments are not taken into account.

The number 60 is the percentage ratio of the profile height to its width. In our case, 117 mm (195/60*100%). The symbol “R” is the first letter of the English word Radial (translated as radial), indicating the type of tire. This is the most popular option today; it has almost completely replaced the old bias-ply tires. The last digit in the marking “14” indicates the diameter of the seat on the disk, expressed in inches.

Tire to rim profile matching table

Table of correspondence between light truck tires and wheel rims

* – recommended rim profile size for this type of tire.

On some models, the letter “C” (short for commercial) is indicated at the end of the marking; it means that the tire has an increased ply rate. Accordingly, such products can be installed on small trucks, minibuses and vans. In this case, the load capacity index is indicated in two digits. The first indicates the maximum load for a single wheel, the second - for a double wheel.

For example, a tire is marked 185/75 R 16 C 104/102S. This means that the tire has increased strength, and the load index is 104 (or 900 kg) for a single wheel, or 102 (or 850 kg) for double wheels. S indicates a maximum travel speed of 180 km/h (more on this below).

Some tire models do not indicate the percentage in the markings. In this case, you need to know that it is in the range of 80-82%. In cases where the value is below 80%, it must be indicated on the bus. The step is 5%.

On tires manufactured in the United States, the markings are slightly different. Let's look at it using the following example - 35/12.5 R15 113Q. The first number indicates the outer diameter of the product in inches. 12.5 is its width. The only difference is in the measurement system - instead of millimeters, inches.

Any car tire has its own dimensions. They must strictly correspond to the wheel on which they are installed. These values ​​are designated by the numbers 15, 17, 20, etc. You can choose the right products for your car using the table below:

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Sizes: what to do to find them out

Now it’s worth delving into one of the most important issues about dimensions. Each tire has its own height, width and diameter. It must match the rims, otherwise they will become unusable. This figure is also indicated on board - 17, 20 or 15, and for trucks and larger vehicles the number will be higher.

Correspondence table for goods collected using the radial method

155/80 and 165/80 R13

4 ½ J* 4J, 5J 5 ½ J

175/70 and 165/70 R14

For light trucks the numbers will be slightly different:

What do the markings on tires mean: tubed and tubeless?

In modern production, the second option is usually done. But sometimes there are also old-style models. It is easier to distinguish them by specially printed letters:

TL (Tubeless). No camera. There is space and air inside, which is preserved because the rubber is as close to the rim as possible. In addition, a special layer of elastic material is made.

TT (TubeType). They are assembled from an inner chamber, which is made from thin fabric and tires. This helps keep the air cushion inside.

If you need to choose one of them, we advise you to take a closer look at tubeless. They allow better acceleration, are safer and more reliable to use.

Puncture Protection Compliance Chart

Of course, every company strives to protect its products from rapid failure. Therefore, they use different technologies that save parts from cuts. But each manufacturer labels it differently. Below are the most common signs.

French famous Michelin

Japanese popular Yokohama

Additional tire size markings and their meaning

Treadwear. An index that reflects the level of wear resistance. Shows the degree and speed at which the wheel wears out - usually in the range from 100 to 500. The higher the indicator, the better the rubber will resist. But it also depends on the quality of the road surface and the owner’s favorite driving style.

Temperature Temperature indicator. With its help you can understand how heat-resistant the material is used on car rubber. There are 3 types in total - A, B, C. The first is considered the best, and C is the most mediocre.

Reinforced. Gain. The presence of this word on the tire indicates that the cord has been strengthened with an additional layer or some other details.

If mounting is allowed only on the front axle, then another letter is written - “F”, if on the rear axle - “R”.

How to decipher tire markings from America

In the USA, tires are labeled differently than in Europe and the countries of the former USSR region. Usually it looks like 28*8.5R 16LT.

This is simply deciphered:

28 – outer radius in inches;

8.5 – width in the same units of measurement;

R – cord threads intersect radially;

16 – inner radius;

LT – what kind of transport can use it, in this case commercial.

What are color markers for?

Manufacturers additionally apply small markings - dots of three main shades. They are usually red, green or yellow. With their help it becomes easier to mount the wheel. Let's figure out what they are for.

A yellowish triangle or circle will indicate the easiest spot.

Red is the densest point. When the wheel is mounted, it must be positioned next to the L mark on the rim.

Green. Required during initial installation; it is assigned at the factory.

You can also often find multi-colored stripes that are applied at the production site and in warehouses. They do not carry any meaning for buyers, but they are needed for loading and unloading, so they are used.

If you need to keep track of the kits in the warehouse, we recommend that you contact Cleverence for equipment. There are people working here who understand office work and can help you choose the best equipment and high-quality software to complete the tasks of any business.

When was it made?

Another important parameter. Over time, tires also lose their properties, even if they have been in storage for a long period and have not been actively used by the car. When stored for a long time, tires lose elasticity, so their driving performance becomes worse.

Determining this date is not difficult if you look at the DOT abbreviation. Pay attention to the last 4 digits of the code, which are in the semi-oval. If 4719 is entered, then the tires were produced in week 47 of 2019.

Seasons and their changes

When deciphering the markings of winter tires for passenger cars, you will definitely notice a pictogram that indicates the seasonality of the product. Typically these are the following notations:

A snow crystal, often with ice particles around it. This is a picture that separates winter tires from the crowd. They are distinguished by deep treads from 8 to 10 mm, a special working surface and a softer coating.

Sun. These are summer “shoes” that are not afraid of heat up to +40 degrees.

All-season with the inscription Allseason. They are suitable when the weather changes only within the range from +7 to +30.

Additionally, they are often written S+ M. These are designations that indicate the use of the product in difficult conditions, in the presence of wet snow and ice. If they have an umbrella or a drop of rain on the side, this ensures that the model can cope with continuous precipitation and water on the road.

Maximum load index (or Load Index)

This figure indicates the maximum load that the tires can support. This value is not applied as a specific number indicating the mass, but is encrypted in the form of a code. The approximate weight indicator can be found by dividing the mass of the car by 4. This index is usually indicated immediately after the dimensions of the product.

Max Load Index Table

It is also worth clarifying here that the value indicated on the tires only indicates the maximum permissible load without taking into account the weight of the vehicle, operating conditions and driving style. In addition, it is necessary to understand that the product should not operate at its maximum capabilities. For example, for passenger vehicles the load should not be exceeded by more than 80% of the maximum value, and for SUVs - 70%. The maximum load not only reduces the life of the tire, but can also lead to an accident due to a rupture.

When choosing tires for your car, it is important to look at the maximum load and speed indices. Buy such products with a reserve, but do not overdo it. The higher this index, the heavier and more massive the tire will be. Which in turn negatively affects driving dynamics and fuel consumption. Always try to choose something in between.

Manufacturers indicate the maximum permissible load on tires as Max Load. The unit of measurement is kilograms and sometimes pounds. The value is similar to the previous one, and the only difference is the feed in absolute numbers.

Speed ​​index

The data is encrypted with letters of the Latin alphabet. They indicate the maximum permissible speed of movement with products of a certain model.

Table with the designation of the speed index in the marking of car tires

This parameter is often displayed on the sidewall of tires behind the load index in Latin letters.

Purpose of products

The letters that appear immediately after the standard size will tell you about the conditions under which a particular product can be used. The following are found:

• P (Passenger) – installed on passenger vehicles;
• LT (Light Truck) - suitable for small trucks and vans;
• ST (Special Trailer) – designed for installation on trailers;
• LRO (Low Platform Trailer) – suitable for trailers with a low platform;
• T (Temporary) – for a spare wheel.

Based on this parameter, tires are selected depending on the equipment on which they will be installed.

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SPECIAL FORCES

On some buses this set is supplemented with some more symbols.

XL is a bluff of the purest water, designed to convey that the tires have increased load-carrying capacity. But the real load is determined only by the index described above.

The symbols SUV or 4x4 (depending on the manufacturer) indicate that the tires are intended for crossovers or all-terrain vehicles. Their main features are a more powerful frame and internally reinforced shoulders.

The letter C in the marking (for example, 185/75R16C) refers to light commercial vehicles (minivans and light trucks). Such tires are distinguished by a double load capacity index (for example, 104/102Q), where the first digit indicates the load capacity of the wheel in a single-pitch version, and the second - in a dual-pitch version.

Run-flat tires can travel some distance without losing air. They also have distinctive markings, which are shown in the table (you will find it in the photo gallery below).

THERE IS A PITT, THEN A DITCH

There is an opinion that on bad roads it is better to use tires with a high speed index: they are supposedly stronger. There is some truth here. The additional reinforcing “pad” between the belt and the carcass makes the tires slightly less vulnerable to impacts. The price to pay for this is increased rigidity and sometimes noise.

In fact, in severe conditions, tires with a higher load index are preferable. They not only have an additional backing, but also reinforced sidewalls.

Degree of protection

In the manufacture of their products, different manufacturers use various technologies that help protect tires and wheels from various types of damage, thereby extending their service life. For example, puncture protection is designated as follows:

With this technology, the car can continue to move for a distance of 50 to 150 km, even in cases of partial or complete loss of pressure, but at a speed of no more than 80 km/h.

You can also find markings indicating the presence or absence of other types of additional protection. These include:

• MFS – full protection of the disc edges;
• FR – tire with sewn rim;
• FB – there is no protection of the rim from damage from the curb;
• Temperature - heat resistance of rubber at high speeds, there are three types: A, B and C, where A has the maximum value;
• Reinforced - the tire is reinforced with an additional layer of cord or other materials.

Some manufacturers may indicate on the tires the materials from which they are made. For example, “2 POLYESTER CORD+2 STEEL CORD” indicates that the product has 2 layers of polyester cord and 2 steel.

Where to start: the main points

When choosing tires for passenger cars, you should start by studying the vehicle manual. It provides complete and detailed information about which type of standard size marking the manufacturer recommends for purchasing tires. In this case, the manufacturer gives several options to choose from depending on the following parameters:

• the material from which the discs are made;
• season;
• power and modification of the motor.

Having considered the listed characteristics, the car owner will be able to decide on the tire that is optimally suitable for him, even without understanding the meaning of the signs and digital combinations printed on it. But you need to take into account that the plant allows the installation of tires with other markings. Therefore, many motorists prefer to take the standard size as a basis. This means that tire marking is still important, as is its decoding for passenger cars and trucks.

The term “size” refers to the tire markings printed on the side of the rubber. The decoding is identical for all passenger cars, so it usually does not cause any difficulties even for beginners.

Let's assume that the tire marking looks like this - 185/65 R15. What do these markings on tires mean? You need to parse the encoding elements separately:

• the first number 185 is the width of the tire, measured in mm;
• the second number 65 is the profile.

If we analyze the concept of “profile” in detail, then we need to point out that the value is measured as a percentage. Essentially it is the profile to width ratio. And in this particular case it is 65%. The higher this indicator, the higher the tires will be.

It happens that tire markings show the same width, but a different profile. And here you need to follow the manual. It is unacceptable to exceed the technical characteristics specified in it. After all, failure to comply with the rules will lead to the inability to operate the technical device.

Many people mistake the letter R to indicate the radius. But in fact, this element reflects the radial design of the tire. Previously, manufacturers used a diagonal version, designated by the letter D. But now tires with such markings are not produced. They are considered obsolete.

The last number in the size, according to the tire marking rules, shows the diameter of the rim. It is measured in inches. For example, you can find the following wheel (tire) marking: R14. The car owner must understand that 14 inches is:

• internal tire size;
• outer size of the disk.

In the same way, you need to decipher if the tire marking is R16 and higher.

But the numbers listed are far from the only ones on the rubber. Usually, after the already listed elements, other combinations of numbers and letters of the Latin alphabet are placed. For example, tire marking is indicated by the following combination - 195/65 R15 94H. The code element following the diameter is an indicator of the permissible load on one wheel. Moreover, the number itself does not directly indicate kilograms, but is an index.

Tire marking code 94 means that the tire can withstand up to 670 kilograms. For the entire car, the maximum weight is calculated by determining the load on four wheels.

Such tire markings and their interpretation for passenger cars are not of decisive importance. The manufacturer usually indicates the parameters with some margin, so it is extremely difficult to exceed the indicator. But with cargo vehicles you need to be very careful. And first familiarize yourself with which factory tire markings suit your needs.

Manufacturers recommend operating vehicles with a load of 70-80% of the specified critical values. Failure to comply with this rule leads to the fact that the tires wear out much faster than the period established by the brand. In addition, such a violation increases the risk of a tire explosion. Such situations can lead to death.

The next letter of the Latin alphabet is the speed index. Each of the 17 letters taken as a basis corresponds to a specific speed limit.

Moreover, this is the maximum limit. The manufacturer recommends operating the vehicle in this mode for no more than a few hours and guarantees normal operation of the tires only during this time.

The tire speed marking table is given below.

Based on everything said above, we can say that when seeing the marking of 205/55 R15 94H tires, the driver should “read” the following:

• width 205 mm;
• profile 55%;
• radial design;
• diameter 15 (this tire marking is indicated in inches);
• maximum load on one wheel is 670 kilograms;
• maximum speed 210 kilometers per hour.

But the marking of tires and the decoding of their designations are not limited to the listed parameters.

Seasonality of operation

The following markings are found on tires, indicating the season of use and suitable road surface:

• AS – universal tire, suitable for any time of year;
• AGT – all-season tire;
• R+W – suitable for use in winter;
• Frost – winter tires;
• AW – can be used in any weather conditions;
• A/T – used on any road surface;
• M/T – suitable for use in difficult terrain and off-road driving.

It is worth noting that many manufacturers indicate the weather properties of their products not with letters, but with images. For example, you saw patterns of snowflakes, rain and sun on the rubber at the same time - this indicates that the tire is all-weather. Winter tires are marked with images of mountain peaks or snowflakes, sometimes both.

Also, on some types of tires, instead of the standard wear indicator (1.6 mm in size), a winter version (4 mm thick) is used. In general, a winter tire is easily identifiable to the touch - it is much softer.

The next thing that is important for a car owner to know is what the marking of tires suitable for driving on wet asphalt means. They usually have the following designations: Aquatred, Aquacontact, Rain, Water, Aqua or an umbrella design.

You can also find the label M+S or M&S . It is more often used in European factories. The symbol M is the first letter of the word Mud, the second S is Snow. This marking indicates the conditions under which this product is approved for use. In European countries, these are the tires that are considered winter. The fact is that their winters are not as severe as in Russia and most of the cold period there is mud there. Those tires that we usually call winter tires are labeled as arctic in Europe.

Other designations

On some tire models, 3 indices are indicated immediately after the size:

• Temperature (or temperature) - tells how resistant the tire is to high temperatures. There are three categories - A, B and C, where A is considered the best.
• Traction - indicates the quality of braking and traction on wet surfaces. Also divided into three categories A, B and C.
• Treadwear (expected mileage) - measured in numbers greater than 100, as this number is considered basic. 100 corresponds to 48 thousand km. The higher the value, the better the tire.

Tire markings must contain a wear index . It determines the degree of wear of the product and the need to replace it with new ones. Most often it is located at the bottom of the groove as close as possible to the TWID inscription (in some cases TWI or DSI). Its location can be easily determined by a special arrow pointer.

on winter studded tires that carry the following information:

• AD – aluminum spikes;
• SD – with carbide core;
• DD – insert with a rectangular core and diamond geranium;
• OD – oval core;
• MD is a plastic spike with a carbide core.

Also important information indicated on the body of the tires is the date of manufacture. After all, even if the rubber was not installed on the car, but was simply stored, over time it still loses its elasticity, and its driving performance deteriorates.

You can find out the release date by looking at the DOT marking. To do this, you need to pay attention to the last 4 digits enclosed in an oval - they will indicate the week and year of manufacture. For example, we see 2022, which means the tire left the factory in week 20 of 2018.

Additional elements of car tire marking: list and explanation

Each tire goes through a quality check. This is reflected by the code with the letter “E”. Numbers are added to it indicating the country by whose standards the inspection was carried out. For example, E8 is the Czech Republic, and E37 is Türkiye. Traditionally, this information is marked in a circle on tires.

According to recent legislative changes, rubber cannot be used for its intended purpose five years after release. During this period, it retains all its characteristics and properties; later the manufacturer cannot guarantee safe driving. Therefore, the production date must be checked before purchasing. The manufacturer indicates it on the side surface. Traditionally, it looks like 4 numbers in an oval.

They are decrypted in pairs:

• the first group is the serial number of the week of the year;
• the last one is the year of manufacture.

For example, the numbers stamped on the rubber are 2116. This means that the product was released in the 21st week (early summer) of 2016. And the wheels can be used until 2022.

Often the manufacturer in the form of a code:

• indicates design features;
• sets a wear indicator.

The first characteristic is an enumeration:

• materials;
• layers.

The materials are not encrypted and are written on a line with a number next to each title. It means the number of layers.

The indicator is placed with the following features:

• near the TWID inscription;
• at the bottom of the groove.

Often a special pointer – an arrow – helps you find the indicator.

Many large manufacturers, concerned about additional protection for their products, are developing their own technologies that increase resistance to punctures, cuts and scratches. These security options are displayed in different ways:

• RFT;
• SSR;
• EMT and more.

Moreover, here a unique set of symbols for each brand is used to mark tires - a unified system does not regulate this area. The presence of a sign of special strength can be interpreted as the ability to travel a distance of up to 150 kilometers at an average speed of 80 kilometers per hour, even with a complete loss of pressure.

Two identical designations are of great interest to consumers:

• XL;
• Extra Load.

Traditionally, these inscriptions are placed after the standard size. In fact, they are identical to each other and mean that the rubber has a reinforced character. Namely, its ability to withstand loads 3 units higher than standard in this category.

The following labels also exist:

• Left/Right – clearly defines which side the rubber can be put on;
• Rotation + arrow – direction of rotation;
• Steel - installed only on products with a metal cord (in other cases, a textile version is used);
• Green X are modern “green” tires that, due to minimal rolling resistance, reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.

The latter characteristic is especially in demand in the EU.

Colored icons

Not all, but many brands use colored geometric shapes, with the help of which they encrypt various useful information.

The yellow sign happens:

• round;
• triangular.

They mark the lightest place on the product. Car owners themselves do not see it as particularly informative, but during installation, the technicians align the yellow icon with the heaviest point of the disk, which improves balancing. But this is important only for new tires. For used tires, the designation loses its relevance.

The red circle is placed at the factory and is usually retained on those tires that are immediately used as equipment for cars. They indicate the place where different layers of material merge together, which is expressed in a somewhat heterogeneous structure. At the maximum point a red mark will appear.

Among the signs you can also find a white circle with numbers inside. The digital combination corresponds to the personal code of the person in charge who carries out the final inspection of the product and releases it from the workshop. Such quality control indicates the company's serious attitude towards its consumers.

Color stripes often seem informative to car owners. But in fact, lines of different shades are placed for one purpose - to mark products with the same size and model range. This makes it easier for warehouse workers to identify tires with identical characteristics.

Additional markings on tires

Labeling data gives you extended information about tires and their parameters. Designations are made in Latin letters and indicate the following:

• TUBELESS – tubeless tire.
• TUBE TYPE (sometimes TT or Mit Schlauch) - a tire for a tube.
• PR – ply index. For passenger vehicles this is often 4PR or 6PR. In this case, “R” - Reinforced (reinforced) has 4 (6) layers. For small trucks and vans, tires with ply ratings of 6PR or 8PR are suitable.
• Left or Right (left, right) – for installation on one side or another.
• XL – reinforced tire.
• Steel – metal cord. If there is no inscription, the cord is made of textile. All Steel means that metal cord is used in both the carcass and the belt.
• Plies: tread – composition of the tread layer.
• Sidewall – composition of the sidewall.
• DA (sometimes Secunda) - a stamp is printed on tires with a slight manufacturing defect that does not affect their performance properties.
• Green X (or Reduces CO2) – so-called “green tires”, with a low rolling level, which helps reduce fuel consumption and, as a result, reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.
• ND – non-directional tread pattern.
• NHS – for low speed driving.
• SAG is an all-terrain tire.
• SUV – for heavy vehicles (crossovers, SUVs, etc.).
• REGROOVABLE – The tread pattern can be deepened by cutting.
• RETREAD – used and retreaded tire.
• Studless - does not stud.
• Studdable - can be studded.
• Studded - studded tire.
• GOST (sometimes TU) - marking of some domestic tires that are made in accordance with state standards.

Since there are a lot of symbols, it is important to decipher them correctly; this is the only way you can choose the tires you need, which will improve the driving performance of your car and the safety of movement.

Mandatory tire labeling: quick information

The government has been trying for a long time to rid the car tire market of low-quality goods. And as a result, a tire labeling program was developed, the legislative basis for which was adopted in April 2022. From 2022, a phased plan for the implementation of the project was introduced.

The essence of the system: nuances of operation and decoding

To implement the project, a special system “Honest Sign” was developed. Through it, tires are marked and codes are deciphered. To operate, companies must have an electronic signature and install the necessary software. Next, the manager must register in the monitoring system and only after that he will have access to actions through the “Honest Sign”.

The essence of the system comes down to the mandatory marking of tires with a unique Data Matrix code combination. Thanks to the code, the consumer can always receive an extensive array of information:

• about the product;
• about the manufacturer;
• key characteristics of the product;
• date of issue;
• date of putting into circulation.

The code cannot be faked - data protection is at an exceptionally high level. This approach to security does not allow copying the Data Matrix. But at the same time it is very readable for specialized devices. Even if they fail or are damaged, the code still counts.

Stakeholders use different devices to work with codes:

1. Buyers download the “Honest Sign” application and perform all manipulations through it. They just need to scan the sign and information about the presence or absence of data about the product in the database will appear on the smartphone screen. If the law is followed and the information is entered into the system, consumers can open it.
2. Sellers deal with codes differently. They are required to put each item of goods through a 2D scanner. Only after this can the products be put up for sale.

The cryptocode contains more than 80 alphanumeric characters. The most important information in a 2D label:

• unique product code;
• serial number (it is individual);
• verification key;
• verification code.

Data Matrix cannot be applied to the product itself. To work at Honest Sign, in accordance with the law, it will be necessary to print labels with a code and then place them on the product. It is assumed that the stickers will be located on the side of the tire.

Some companies fear that they will not be able to resolve all tire labeling issues by the end of 2022. And this is understandable, because almost all companies have already automated many work processes for a long time and do not know how to integrate new software and hardware systems designed for tire marking into it. carries out certification for compatibility of software products. Also, the company’s specialists make the necessary adjustments in order to comply with the changes in the legislative system prescribed by the amendments.

Project implementation stages

Tire labeling has been voluntary since the beginning of 2022. The previous year, the process was launched as an experiment to identify weak points that needed improvement.

The tire labeling program is currently entering its final stage. From November 1, 2022, a number of prohibitions have been introduced:

• production of rubber without markings;
• import of tires without code;
• sales of such goods by entities working directly with suppliers.

From November 1, 2022, those participants in trade turnover who entered the program on a voluntary basis found themselves in the most advantageous position. We can say that tire marking has become mandatory since November, although entrepreneurs still have some time to resolve issues.

It is limited to the next stage of program implementation. Until December 15, 2020, trade entities must mark tires ordered before November 2022. In this case, suppliers can ship them as early as December. The determining factor is the date of ordering the product.

From December 15, it is prohibited to sell tires without special codes. A ban is also imposed on any actions related to their withdrawal from circulation. That is, legal entities that do not have time to carry out all the necessary manipulations lose the chance to sell the goods.

The next stage is scheduled for 03/01/2021. Before this date, the remaining tires remaining in warehouses and not sold before 12/15/2020 must be marked. After March 1, all information about the turnover of goods in this segment must pass only through “Honest Sign”.

Colored marks on the tire

Most tires have small colored marks on them. This helps with their installation and they come in red, green and yellow:

• The yellow circle or triangle indicates the thinnest place; this is where the disc spool should be.
• The densest place is indicated in red. It should be opposite the L mark of the disk.
• The green circle is the factory designation for the initial installation of the tire.

Sometimes there are colored stripes on the body of the tires. They do not carry any information; they are used in production and warehouses for loading and unloading, transportation, and storage.

American tire markings

There are two different markings on tires made in the USA. The first is similar to the European one, the difference lies in the letter “P” in front of the standard size (from the word Passanger - for passenger cars) or “LT” (Light Truck - light truck). For example, P 195/60 R 14 or LT 235/75 R15.

The second marking is significantly different from what we are used to. Let's take this example - 31x10.5 R15 (it fully corresponds to the European 265/75 R15).

31 – outer diameter of rubber.

10.5 – tire width.

R – radial design.

15 – internal diameter of the product.

All values ​​are indicated in inches. In principle, if you do not take into account that the markings are in a measurement system that is unusual for us, then the American markings are more convenient and understandable, unlike the European ones, where the profile height depends on the width of the tire.

Some tips

Most of the world's tire manufacturers have their own designations for some operating features and technologies used in production. Information about such markings can only be obtained on the official website of the manufacturer.

It is recommended to install tires on your car not only of the same size and design, but also of the same model and brand. This is due to the fact that although the products are similar in appearance, different rubber could be used in their manufacture, which differs in its characteristics, and this can play an important role in a critical situation.

When installing tires on your car, avoid the following situations:

• low-profile tires in front, high-profile in rear;
• studded tires in front, without them in rear;
• There are tires with a new tread in front, bare tires in the back, and vice versa.

Sometimes there are situations when the tires on a car need to be replaced with others, but there is no suitable size. Below we present you a table of tire interchangeability.

The information presented above will help you choose not only the right tire, but also its size that best suits your operating conditions. After all, you can’t install the first tires you come across, they simply won’t fit.

Winter studded

In conditions of snowfall, snowy and icy roads, special rubber is required, which has a high degree of elasticity, a large tread, and is also equipped with metal spikes. The spikes perform well on ice and dense snow. When other tires are slipping, the studs provide grip, prevent slipping, and allow you to brake or start faster.

One of the best winter studded tires - Bridgestone Noranza 185 65 r 15 - provides good handling even in sharp turns and on ice. And the special shape of the tread, which allows you to quickly remove water from the contact patch, makes it possible to drive through snowy slush without any problems. The spikes are highly wear resistant. They are installed in fourteen rows, which provides reliable traction on slippery surfaces.

Their closest competitor, the Goodyear Ultragrip Ice Arctic, uses a special stud technology. With its help, the contact patch increases and good performance is achieved when driving not only on ice and snow, but also on wet asphalt. This is very important in conditions of alternating frosts and thaws.

Another popular model of winter tires, Roadstone Winguard WinSpike, also has a size 185/65R15 in its range. Manufacturer's innovations: optimal arrangement of studs, use of an edge effect, which improves grip. The water drainage grooves have been developed based on numerous experiments and reliably prevent hydroplaning.