Tyres are a lot more critical for your car than most people realise. They’re key to how safe you are, how well your car performs, and even how much fuel you use. Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle is essential for safety, performance, and regulatory compliance. But one of vehicle owners’ most frequently asked questions is: What tyres fit my car?
Read on to learn how to read tyre size, what those numbers and letters mean, and how to confidently select the right tyres for your car.
Why Tyre Size Matters More Than You Think? Where Can I Find the Perfect Size?
Before getting into the technical details, it’s essential to understand why correct tyre size matters.
- Proper steering response and handling
- Accurate speedometer readings
- Optimal braking performance
- Safe load-bearing and weight distribution
- Compliance with Australian vehicle regulations
Using tyres that don’t suit you can compromise your safety. Mismatched tyres can cause erratic handling, delayed stopping times, and premature wear on suspension components.
Identifying the right car tyre dimensions for your vehicle isn’t difficult. You can check in three main spots:
1. Your Vehicle Documentation
Your owner’s manual is a reliable source for factory-recommended tyre and wheel sizes. If you’ve purchased a second-hand vehicle, remember that the tyres or wheels may have been changed, so verifying the current setup is a good idea.
2. Inside Your Vehicle
Most cars have a tyre placard located in one of the following spots:
- Driver’s side door jamb
- Passenger side door
- Inside the glove box
- Inside the fuel cap door
This label lists the manufacturer-recommended tyre size, load index, and inflation pressure.
3. On the Tyre Sidewall
If you’re wondering how to read tyre size on the tyre itself, look no further than the numbers printed on the sidewall. These numbers explain tyre size, including the width, aspect ratio, construction type, and wheel diameter.
How to Read Tyre Specification
Reading a tyre’s size might initially look confusing, but it becomes straightforward once you know what to look for. Tyre sizes are typically written on the sidewall in a sequence like 205/55 R16 91V. Let’s break this down:
- 205 – Represents the tyre width in millimetres.
- 55—The height of the tire’s sidewall expressed as a percentage of its width is known as the aspect ratio. In this instance, the height is 55% of 205 mm.
- R16 – The “R” indicates a radial tyre, and “16” is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
- 91V – These numbers and letters indicate the load index and speed rating.
This standard format is used across all tyre brands and models, making it easier for vehicle owners to compare specifications confidently.
Tyre Width Comparison
Not all vehicles are restricted to a single tyre size. Many models have manufacturer-approved size ranges based on trim level or optional wheels. For example, a sedan may have 195 mm wide tyres in its base model and 215 mm in its sport version.
If you’re considering upsizing or downsizing your tyres, it’s important to carefully compare tyre widths, rim diameters, and aspect ratios. Use professional tyre fitting tools or consult a local tyre expert in Albion Park Rail to ensure your new tyre dimensions won’t affect your vehicle’s performance or safety systems.
- When making a tyre width comparison, always keep in mind:
- Wider tyres can offer better grip, especially in dry conditions.
- Narrower tyres may perform better in wet or off-road conditions.
- Incorrect width can lead to rubbing on the wheel well or suspension parts.
Custom Wheels or Second-Hand Cars? Check Your Tyres Carefully
If you’ve purchased a used car or installed aftermarket wheels, your current tyres may not match the original factory specifications. That’s why checking the tyre size on the sidewall is so essential. Always record the full code, such as 225/65R17 102H, when looking for replacements.
Take a quick photo of all four tyres to make sure the front and rear tyres match (unless your car is designed to have staggered sizing).
Benefits of Choosing Danics Auto & Tyre Service Centre
Danics Auto & Tyre Service Centre offers a complete range of tyre and automotive services backed by over 40 years of industry experience. From precision wheel alignments and professional tyre fittings to reliable mechanical repairs, our team of skilled technicians is committed to delivering quality workmanship and customer care at every step.
Whether you’re based in Albion Park Rail, Shellharbour, or anywhere in the wider Illawarra region, our new state-of-the-art workshop will help you confidently choose the right tyres. We’re here to guide you through everything, including how to read tyre specifications, assess tyre width comparisons, and decode tyre specifications.
We’ve got you covered if you’re unsure where to start or need a professional tyre-size explanation. Contact us today to upgrade your tyres or book a vehicle service.