How to Choose Tyres Based on Tyre Ratings and Codes

Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle ensures safety, performance, and efficiency on the road. With numerous options available, understanding tyre ratings and codes can help you make an informed decision. These ratings and codes, often found on the sidewall of a tyre, provide essential information about the tyre's capabilities, such as load capacity, speed rating, and tread life.

What are the important factors to consider when selecting tyres based on ratings and codes? This article offers you a guide to help you choose the best tyres for your driving needs.

How Can You Determine the Tyre Size You Need?

Choosing the correct car tyre size ensures optimal performance and safety. Here are three primary ways to determine the tyre size you need:

1. Look for Tyre Size Information on the Driver/Passenger Door

Many vehicles have a sticker or plaque located on the driver’s side door jamb or inside the glove compartment that lists the recommended tyre size. This information includes the tyre dimensions, recommended tyre pressure, and other essential details.

2. Refer to the Manual/Documentation of Your Car

The owner’s manual or other official documentation for your vehicle will also contain information about the appropriate tyre size. This is particularly useful if you cannot read the sidewall or do not have access to the door jamb information.

3. Check the Numbers on the Sidewall of Your Current Tyres

Your current tyres have numbers and letters on the sidewall that indicate the tyre class, size, construction, load index rating, and maximum speed capacity.

How to Read Tyre Codes

Understanding tyre codes is essential for selecting the right tyres. Here’s a breakdown of the critical components:

• Tyre Class: The first letter in the tire code indicates the primary use of the tire. Most commonly, you will find the letter "P", which signifies that the tyre is intended for use in passenger vehicles like cars, minivans, and SUVs. Some tyres may not include this information.
• Tyre Width or Section Width: This is the first number in the tyre code, indicating the tyre's width in millimetres from sidewall to sidewall. For example, a tyre marked 215/65R15 has a width of 215 mm.
• Aspect Ratio: The aspect ratio follows the tyre width and is expressed as a percentage. It represents the height of the tyre's sidewall relative to its width; for instance, a tyre marked 215/65R15 means the height is 65% of the tyre's width.
• Construction: This indicates the type of tyre construction, typically denoted by the letter "R" for Radial. Radial tyres have layers running radially across the tyre, offering a balance of flexibility and strength.
• Wheel Diameter: Represented in inches, this is the wheel size the tyre is designed to fit. For example, a tyre code marked 215/65R15 fits a 15-inch wheel.
• Load Index: This numerical code specifies the tyre's maximum load-carrying capacity. Each number corresponds to a specific weight found on load index charts; for example, a tyre code ending in 95S might equate to 1,521 pounds.
• Speed Rating: Denoted by a letter at the end of the tyre code, this rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can safely operate. For instance, an ‘S’ speed rating signifies a top speed of 180km/h (112mph).

How to Choose the Right Car Tyres

Selecting the right car tyres involves considering several factors to meet your needs. Here are key factors to guide your decision:

• Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on tyres. While premium tyres offer higher performance and durability, budget-friendly options provide adequate safety and efficiency for everyday driving.
• Type of Car/Vehicle: Your vehicle type greatly influences tyre selection. Different vehicles (sedans, SUVs, trucks, sports cars) require tyres to handle their unique weight, performance, and driving conditions.
• Usage/Purpose: Consider how and where you typically drive. For instance, regular city driving, long-distance highway travel, and off-road adventures will each have different tyre requirements.
• Stock vs Modded: Decide whether you want to stick with the manufacturer's recommended tyre specifications (stock) or if your vehicle has been modified in a way that requires specialised tyres. Modifications such as increased horsepower, altered suspension, or custom wheels may necessitate tyres with specific performance characteristics.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right car tyres is essential for ensuring safety, performance, and efficiency. When deciding, consider your budget, vehicle type, typical driving conditions, and whether you have made any modifications that might warrant specialised tyres. By considering these factors, you can select tyres that best suit your needs and enhance your driving experience. Remember, the right tyres improve handling and comfort and contribute significantly to road safety.

Choose From AL Tyres’ Available Tyre Brands

AL Tyres offers many tyre brands to suit various needs and preferences. Here are some of the top brands available in our tyre shop in Singapore:

• Michelin: Renowned for their superior grip, durability, and fuel efficiency, Michelin tyres are an excellent choice for everyday driving and high-performance vehicles.
• Bridgestone: Known for their innovative technology and all-weather performance, Bridgestone tyres deliver reliability and safety under various driving conditions.
• Goodyear: Goodyear tyres offer a good balance of performance, comfort, and durability, making them a popular choice for many vehicles.
• Pirelli: Pirelli is synonymous with high-performance tyres, offering exceptional handling, braking, and cornering capabilities.
• Continental: Continental tyres are designed for ultimate safety and performance, featuring advanced technology for enhanced traction and braking.
• Dunlop: Dunlop tyres provide excellent handling and comfort, making them ideal for daily commutes.
• Yokohama: Yokohama tyres are well-regarded for their performance in various weather conditions, offering reliability and longevity.

Visit AL Tyres to explore our full range of tyre brands and find the perfect fit for your vehicle. You may also give us a call at (65) 8418 1000 to learn more about our range of available tyres. Our experts are here to help you make the best choice for your driving needs.