245/40R18 82V ???? We have all seen the numbers on our tires. Maybe we have even copied them down so we would know what to look for. But what do they mean? Here is everything you every wanted to know about tires.
Refer back to the tire mentioned above. 245/40R18 82V. Let’s break it down.
245 – This is the width of the tire in millimeters.
40 – This is the aspect ratio of the tire. Plain and simple, this is the ratio of tire width to tire height. The higher the number, the taller the sidewall, the lower the number, the lower the sidewall. The 40 indicates that the sidewall is 40% of the tire width.
R – Refers to Radial Construction. 98% of tires sold today are radials; chances are you’ll never see a different letter (except for possibly a spare tire).
18 – The size of the rim the tire will go on.
82V – This is the Service Description and is made up of the Load Index and Speed Rating.
82 – Load index. Tires are assigned a number from 0-279 that corresponds to how much weight the tire can handle at maximum inflation. 82 is rated at 1,047 pounds.
V – Speed Rating. All tires are assigned a letter that indicates the maximum speed capability of the tire at proper inflation. The most common tires are rated S with a top speed of 112mph or T (118 mph). Tires for high performance vehicles have a rating of V (149 mph) and go up to Z (186 mph).
These are the basics when it comes to tires. Sure there is a lot more information about tires, but for most of us, this will suffice when it comes to making a tire purchase.
One important ingredient not mentioned is AIR. It's important to keep your tires properly inflated. Three reasons why. Properly inflated tires are safer (better traction keeps you on the road and not a ditch), they help to keep tire tread to wear evenly (your tires last longer), and better fuel economy (gas is expensive!). All of these will help you save money, your car, and your life (both yours and your tires).
Ready to buy tires? Schedule your service at Dixie Motor Company.
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