You probably know tires are made of rubber - but how much more do you know? Here's a run-through of some important tire-related terminology:
* Aspect ratio
This technical-sounding term refers to the relationship between the width of a tire and the height of the tire's sidewall. High-performance "low profile" tires have "low aspect ratios" - meaning their sidewalls are short relative to their width. This provides extra stiffness and thus better high-speed handling and grip - but also tends to result in a firmer (and sometimes, harsh) ride. "Taller" tires tend to provide a smoother ride and better traction in snow.
* Contact Patch
An alpha-numeric symbol you'll find on your tire's sidewall that tells you the maximum sustained speed the tire is capable of safely handling. An H-rated tire, for example, is built to be safe for continuous operation at speeds up to 130 mph. Most current model year family-type cars have S (112 mph) or T (118 mph) speed ratings launch x431 diagun. High performance cars often have tires with a V (149 mph) or ZR (in excess of 149 mph) speed rating. A few ultra-performance cars have W (168 mph) and even Y (186 mph) speed-rated tires.* Maximum cold inflation load limit
This refers to the maximum load that can be carried in a given vehicle with a given type of tires - and the maximum air pressure needed to support that load. In your vehicle's owner's manual, you should be able to find the recommended cold inflation load limit. It's important not to exceed the load limit (or over or under-inflate the tires) as this can lead to stability/handling problems and even tire failure. Always check tire pressure "cold." Driving creates friction which creates heat; as the tires warm up, the air inside expands, increasing the pressure. Measuring air pressure after driving can give a false reading; you may actually be driving around on under-inflated tires.
Many modern cars come with so-called "space-saver" tires which are smaller and lighter than a standard or full-size spare tire LAUNCH X431 V. They are designed to leave more room in the trunk and be easier for the average person to handle when a roadside tire change becomes necessary. However, they are not designed to be used for extended (or high-speed) driving. Your car will probably not handle (or stop) as well while the Space Saver tire is on - and you should keep your speed under 55 mph and avoid driving on the tire beyond what's absolutely necessary to find a tire repair shop where you can have your damaged tire repaired or replaced.* Treadwear, Traction and Temperature ratings
Each tire has three separate ratings for Treadwear, Traction and Temperature. Traction ratings run from AA to A to B and C - with C being the lowest on the scale. The ratings represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement under controlled testing conducted by the government. These are just guides, however. Your tires may last longer (or not) depending on such factors as how you drive, whether you maintain proper inflation pressure and rotate the tires per recommendations - and so on.
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