A tire's most important job is to carry the load required of it, and the load range/ply rating branded on the tire's sidewall indicates how much load the tire is designed to carry (at a specific pressure). Whenever changing tire sizes or from one tire type to another, it's important to ensure...
Why do we change our tires and wheels? Aside from necessity, most of us do it for performance, comfort and style. But to be sure our tires are performing properly and that we're rolling comfortably and in style, we'll need to correctly install our new tires and wheels. Here's a few tips from us...
Proper wheel installation requires the wheel-attaching hardware (lug nuts or bolts) be tightened to the recommended torque specification for the vehicle make, model and year. Torque specifications are usually found in the vehicle's owner's manual.* Proper torque requires using the correct...
To stay safe behind the wheel this winter season, consumers should remember the following W.I.N.T.E.R. tips from Tire Rack: Winter Tires Are Worth It: The best way to improve winter / snow tire traction and increase safety is with a set of dedicated winter / snow tires. Starting at a few...
Before products can be sold in many countries, their manufacturers are required to test and certify they meet government standards. While many countries establish their own unique standards, others simply choose to adopt established standards to simplify global complexity. In the case of...
During a trip to Pirelli's facilities in Europe, several members of the Tire Rack team had the opportunity to visit their tire plant in Brueberg, Germany. Opened in 1963, this tire manufacturing facility is unique because it now features multiple generations of tire manufacturing equipment...
Tire and wheel manufacturers initially formed regional associations to establish interchangeability standards for tires, rims and allied parts for the guidance of manufacturers, as well as to establish standards for the designers of motor vehicles, aircraft and other wheeled vehicles. These...
Country of Origin Although regularly updated, the country of origin for any tire may vary from the country shown here. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate requests for tires with a specific country of origin.
Overall Diameter A tire's overall diameter is the outer diameter of the tire measured in the center of the tread. This measurement is made without any load placed upon the tire and after the tire has been properly mounted on its industry assigned measuring rim and has been inflated and reset...
Tread Width Measuring Tread width is typically thought of as a measurement between the outboard and inboard edges of a new tire's tread design. Ideally it approximates the width of the tread that comes into contact with the road. Unfortunately measuring tire tread width isn't as simple as...
Measuring Rim WidthThe measuring rim width is the industry standardized rim width upon which the tire must be mounted in order to confirm it meets its dimensional targets. Because the width of the rim will influence the width of the tire, a standard rim width for every tire size is assigned and...
The purposes of the Tire and Rim Association, Inc., include the establishment of interchangeability standards for tires, rims and allied parts for the guidance of manufacturers of such products, designers and manufacturers of motor vehicles, aircraft and other wheeled vehicles and equipment,...
High-Speed Rated Winter TiresPerformance Winter / SnowPassenger | Light Truck/SUV Developed as high-speed winter tires for European driving conditions, these tires typically trade some deep snow and ice traction for enhanced dry and wet road traction, handling and high-speed capability....
It's Not Just About Wear. Do You Know When to Say When? There are many reasons why tires should be replaced. Here are some Tire Rack recommendations based on currently available information: The vehicle manufacturer owner's manual may have specific instructions covering tire inspections...
Should Drivers Replace Old Tires Even if Their Treads Aren't Worn Out? While most drivers' past experience might not indicate it's necessary, the growing realization that tires are perishable means tires on some vehicles will possibly age out before they wear out. Composed of steel belts,...
Need help choosing the right products for your vehicle? Our US-based team of highly trained experts has the knowledge and passion to help. Just pick up the phone and give us a ring. Or let's chat via email. We love solving problems and lending a hand (or an ear).
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