Tire and automotive glossary

Tire size

The code on the sidewall, such as 225/55 R17. It gives the width in millimetres, the aspect ratio, and the rim diameter in inches.

A number that tells you the maximum weight a tire can carry. Higher means more capacity. It must meet or exceed the vehicle requirement.

A letter giving the maximum speed a tire is rated for, such as V or W. It should match or exceed the vehicle specification.

A standard label showing rolling resistance, wet grip and noise, so customers can compare tires on fuel, safety and quietness.

How much energy a tire uses as it rolls, graded A to E. A better grade means lower fuel use over the life of the tire.

How well a tire stops on a wet road, graded A to E. A safety measure worth highlighting on premium fitments.

The three-peak mountain snowflake mark, certifying a tire for severe winter conditions. Found on winter and many all-season tires.

A tire designed to cope with both summer and mild winter conditions, a practical choice in changeable climates.

A reinforced tire rated to carry more weight at higher pressure, often specified for heavier vehicles.

The tire originally specified by the vehicle maker. OE markings indicate a tire approved for a particular model.

When a vehicle uses different tire sizes front and rear, common on performance cars. Each axle is ordered to its own size.

National roadworthiness inspections: INSPECTION in the UK, NCT in Ireland, TÜV in Germany. Requex shows the right label for the region.

The European product registry that holds the official label data behind each tire, the source of the specs in the catalog.

How much usable tread remains, measured in millimetres. Below the legal minimum a tire must be replaced.

A tire built to be driven on for a limited distance after a puncture, so the driver can reach a installer safely.