What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

If you’ve been shopping for tires around the Bayside area, you may have noticed all the numbers on the side. What do tire numbers mean? If you're confused after trying to figure out each tire number's meaning, that’s understandable. Our service center staff thinks that every Manhasset driver should understand those numbers. That’s why we’ve put together the helpful guide, below:

A Breakdown of the Tire Number Meaning

What do tire numbers mean when they are divided by a forward slash? These numbers are hard to miss, and are usually formatted like “P225/50R16” or “225/50R16”. These numbers indicate the size of the tire. So, what do the numbers on tires mean to you? If you’re shopping for tires, you will need to know which sizes are right for your car and match your rims. Here’s what each of those numbers mean:

Tire Number Meaning: Max PSI

Some numbers on tires are followed or preceded by “PSI”. What do tire numbers mean when they are accompanied by this acronym? Well, “PSI” stands for “Pounds per Square Inch” and refers to air pressure. But this is the maximum pressure that your tires can withstand, not what the tire should be inflated to. If you need to inflate a low tire, consult your owner’s manual or the sticker on the inside of your driver-side door for the recommended air pressure for your tires.