How to read a tyre sidewall
Decode tyre size, load rating, speed rating and common markings.
Example: 225/45 R17 94Y
225 is nominal width in millimetres, 45 is aspect ratio, R17 is radial construction for a 17-inch wheel, 94 is load index and Y is speed rating.
Other markings
You may also see XL, run-flat identifiers, manufacturer homologation markings and date codes. These can matter when matching a replacement tyre.
Check both axles
Some vehicles use different front and rear tyre sizes, so do not assume one sidewall represents all four tyres.
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