What do the codes on the tire sidewall mean?
The codes on the tire 215/55 R 16 97 V XL mean: 215: tire width in mm. 55: height / width ratio expressed as percentage R: radial (particular tire design) 16: rim diameter in inches 97: load capacity (730 kg) V: speed symbol (240 km/h) Other possible codes on a tire: XL extra Load (reinforced tire with an increased load capacity) RF reinforced (same meaning as Extra Load) M&S mud and snow tire (winter tire) symbol for winter tires that comply with the strictest winter requirements 0218929-S approval number according to ECE*-R30 TWI wear indicator (Tread Wear Indicator) minimum tread depth 1.6 mm. ROTATION indicates the forward driving direction that must be observed when fitting a directional tire. INNER SIDE is shown on the side of the tire that has to be mounted on the inside The size indication for tires vans and light lorries (C tires) is shown according to ECE* Regulation 54 and only deviates little from ECE_R30 for passenger card tires. * ECE = Economic Commission for Europe (UNO
