How to Read a Tire Size: What 225/65R17 98H Means
A tire size such as 225/65R17 98H means the tire is 225 millimeters wide, its sidewall height is 65 percent of that width, it has radial (R) construction, and it fits a 17-inch wheel. The 98 is the load index (1,653 lbs per tire) and H is the speed rating (up to 130 mph). Your car's correct size and pressure are printed on the placard in the driver-side door jamb.
Decoding 225/65R17 98H
| Part | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 225 | Section width in millimeters |
| 65 | Aspect ratio: sidewall height is 65% of the width |
| R | Radial construction (nearly all modern tires) |
| 17 | Wheel (rim) diameter in inches |
| 98 | Load index: 1,653 lbs maximum per tire |
| H | Speed rating: 130 mph maximum |
Common speed ratings
| Letter | Max speed |
|---|---|
| S | 112 mph |
| T | 118 mph |
| H | 130 mph |
| V | 149 mph |
| W | 168 mph |
| Y | 186 mph |
Other sidewall markings
- DOT code: the last four digits are the week and year of manufacture (how to read it).
- UTQG: treadwear (a relative number; higher lasts longer), traction (AA, A, B, C) and temperature (A, B, C).
- M+S: mud and snow. A three-peak mountain snowflake symbol marks tires that meet a severe-snow performance test.
- Max press: the tire's maximum pressure, not the pressure to run.
Find a tire shop
- Tire shops in Los Angeles — 1 listing
- Tire shops in Oakland — 1 listing
- Tire shops in San Francisco — 1 listing
- Tire shops in San Jose — 1 listing
- Tire shops in Santa Clara — 1 listing
- Tire shops in Sunnyvale — 1 listing
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different tire size than the original?
Only within limits. A different size changes the overall diameter, which affects the speedometer, stability systems and clearance. Stay with the size on the door placard unless a tire professional confirms a compatible alternative.
Is it OK to use a lower speed rating?
It is not recommended. Use at least the speed rating and load index the vehicle manufacturer specifies. Winter tires are a common exception allowed by many manufacturers.
What does LT mean on a tire?
LT stands for light truck. These tires are built for heavier loads and towing and use different load ranges and pressures than passenger (P-metric or no prefix) tires.
Where is the recommended tire pressure?
On the placard in the driver-side door jamb and in the owner's manual. The number on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure, not the recommended one.
Related guides
- How Old Are My Tires? Reading the DOT Date Code — The last four digits of the DOT code show the week and year a tire was made. How old is too old, why rubber ages, and what to check on spare tires.
- Tire Pressure Light On? What the TPMS Warning Means and What to Do — A steady TPMS light means a tire is low; a flashing one means a system fault. How to check pressure, find the right psi and handle cold mornings.
- How Much Does It Cost to Install New Tires? Mounting, Balancing and Extras — What a tire installation includes, the extra line items to expect (valve stems, TPMS service, disposal, state tire fee), and how to compare quotes.