All about tires: sizes, types, pressure and when to replace
The only contact your car has with the road — learn to read a tire, choose the right type and keep it safe.
Reading a tire size
205/55 R16 means: 205 mm section width, 55% aspect ratio, R radial, 16-inch rim. After the size come the load index (91) and speed index (V) — never fit a lower load index than original.
Types of tires
- Summer: best grip above 7 °C, longer life
- Winter: soft compound for cold, snow and ice
- All-season: a compromise, weakest at both extremes
- Performance: sticky compound, shorter life, more noise
Pressure — the free fuel saver
Under-inflation raises consumption 2–3%, wears the edges and overheats the tire. Check cold monthly and before long trips. Use the door-sticker pressure, not the one on the tire wall.
When to replace
- Tread below 1.6 mm (many replace at 3 mm)
- Bulges, cuts or exposed cords
- Cracks in the sidewall
- Uneven wear — get an alignment
- More than 6–10 years old regardless of tread
- After a bad impact or blowout
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