Tire Sidewall Codes: What They Mean and When to Replace Your Tires
Your tires are more than just rubber—they come with important information printed right on the side. So, these sidewall codes tell you the size, type, speed rating, and age of your tires. Since understanding this information helps you choose the right replacement tires and know when to replace old ones, it’s important to know how to read these codes. Whether you’re driving through Elizabethtown or heading out to support the high school basketball team, checking your tire sidewall can help keep you safe and prepared.
At Meineke in Elizabethtown, however, our ASE-certified mechanics can check your tires, explain your sidewall codes, and recommend the right replacements. So, in this post, the experts at Meineke explain where to find tire sidewall codes, how to read them, and when to replace your tires.
So, Where Can You Find Sidewall Codes?
You can find these codes printed on the side of each tire. Since they’re molded into the rubber, they’re easy to spot with a quick look at your tire’s sidewall.
So, What Do Sidewall Codes Mean?
Tire sidewall codes look like this: P225/60R16 94T. So here’s what each part means:
- P – This means it’s a passenger tire. You might also see LT for light trucks.
- 225 – This is the width of the tire in millimeters, Thus providing sizing.
- 60 – This is the aspect ratio also known as sidewall height as a percentage of the width.
- R – This means radial construction, thus the most common type.
- 16 – This is the wheel diameter in inches.
- 94 – This is the load index, thus showing how much weight the tire can carry.
- T – This is the speed rating, thus indicating the top speed the tire can safely handle.
Also, look for the DOT code, which ends with four numbers like 1222—this means the tire was made in the 12th week of 2022.
When Should You Replace Your Tires?
Knowing how to read your tire codes helps you know when it’s time for new tires. Visit Meineke in Elizabethtown if you notice:
- Tires Are Over 6 Years Old – If your DOT code shows they’re older than 6 years, it’s time to replace them.
- Worn Tread – If tread depth is below 2/32 inch, then tires are unsafe.
- Cracks or Bulges – If you see damage on the sidewall, then it’s time for new tires.
- Frequent Air Loss – If your tire won’t hold air, then a slow leak or damage may be the cause.
So, Call Meineke Today for a Tire Check
Since your tire sidewall holds key information, checking these codes helps you stay safe and know when to replace your tires. But if you’re unsure how to read them or your tires seem worn, Meineke in Elizabethtown is here to help. Whether you need a quick tire check, new tires, or expert advice, our ASE-certified mechanics will keep you rolling. So, don’t wait for a blowout—Call Meineke today for a quick tire check-up.
If the Meineke in Elizabethtown is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke also has 15 car repair centers is Kentucky:
Meineke Car Care – Dixie Hwy
5326 DIXIE HWY
Louisville, KY 40216
Call (844) 311-4548
Meineke Car Care – Preston Hwy
7103 Preston Highway
Louisville, KY 40219
Call (844) 605-8457
Meineke Car Care – Bardstown Rd
4170 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40218
Call (844) 321-3541
Meineke Car Care – East Broadway
701 East Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
Call (855) 973-7820
Meineke Car Care – Outer Loop
6420 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40228
Call (844) 417-2336
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd
11514 Shelbyville Road
Louisville, KY 40243
Call (844) 352-0216
Meineke Car Care – Dupont Rd
1019 Dupont Road
Louisville, KY 40207
Call (502) 791-9526
Meineke Car Care – Plantside Drive
10723 Plantside Drive
Louisville, KY 40299
Call (502) 536-9765
Meineke Car Care – South Dixie Blvd
2197 South Dixie Blvd
Radcliff, KY 40160
Call (866) 548-1474
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd
3949 Shelbyville Rd
St Matthews, KY 40207
Call (888) 633-4889
Meineke Car Care – North Dixie Hwy
1400 North Dixie Hwy
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Call (877) 439-7844
Meineke Car Care – Midland Trail
2000 Midland Trail
Shelbyville, KY 40065
Call (844) 681-4659
Meineke Car Care – West Hwy 146
3717 KY-146
Buckner, KY 40010
Call (844) 353-6212
Meineke Car Care – Peachtree Rd
100 Peachtree Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Call (859) 687-8290
Meineke Car Care – Arrowhead Ct
101 Arrowhead Court
Frankfort, KY 40601
Call (833) 723-5010
Meineke Car Care in Elizabethtown, KY
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