As briefly mentioned, the sidewall is the part of the tire that can be seen when you look at a tire from the side when it is mounted on a vehicle. The sidewall possesses information about the tire including the brand name, tire size, tire code
Tire code
Automobile tires are described by an alphanumeric tire code (in American English and Canadian English) or tyre code (in British English, Australian English and others), which is generally molded into the sidewall of the tire. This code specifies the dimensions of the tire, and some of its key limitations, such as load-bearing ability, and maximum speed.
What do the numbers on a tyre sidewall mean?
- "Star": Original tyres for BMW
- A/S: All-season tyre
- A/T: All-terrain tyre
- B: Bias construction, typically for motorcycles.
- C: Commercial / passenger car tyre
- BSW: Black SideWall
- C: Commercial; tyres for light trucks. ...
- E4: Tyre approved according to ECE-regulations. ...
- EL: Extra Load; tyre for vehicles of heavier standard weights
How to repair sidewall damage to tires?
When to Replace the Tire
- Pinch Shocks. Pinch shocks are a kind of sidewall damage that is quite terminal. ...
- Tread Area Damage. Tread is the part of the tire which is directly in contact with the ground. ...
- Shoulder Punctures. As discussed above, this area is one step farther from the road. ...
- Dry Rot. ...
How to read sidewall tire numbers and markings?
Reading a Tire Sidewall. The sidewall of your tires is filled with important information that tells you everything about your tire regarding the dimensions, construction, operating characteristics and manufacturer. The easiest way to understand tire markings is to take an example and break it down. For our example, these numbers are: P225/60R16.
What is the middle part of a tire?
Here you can browse some popular wheel size combinations:
- 15x10 wheels
- 17x9 wheels
- 20x10 wheels
- 20x12 wheels
- 20x14 wheels
- 22x12 wheels
- 22x14 wheels
How close to sidewall can a tire be patched?
For a safe repair, the puncture must be 1/2 inch away or more from the edge of the tire tread where the internal steel belt begins. Any puncture less than 1/2 inch from the start of the internal steel belt on the shoulder or sidewall of the tire cannot be repaired (highlighted in red).
What happens if you repair the sidewall of a tire?
1:304:56How To Fix Sidewall Punctures Without Replacing Your TireYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSidewall permanently glue tread is sold as an emergency sidewall repair. But they have patched tiresMoreSidewall permanently glue tread is sold as an emergency sidewall repair. But they have patched tires that are still in use and holding. Years after the first repair.
How do you measure the sidewall of a tire?
It's the height of the sidewall measured from wheel rim to top of the tread, expressed as a percentage of tire width. In this example, the aspect ratio is 65, meaning the sidewall is 65 percent as high as the tire is wide. To get the sidewall height, take the tire width of 215 mm and convert it to inches (8.46).
Does the sidewall of a tire matter?
A common byproduct of radial tire construction, sidewall indentations/undulations are more noticeable in tires with taller sidewalls or operate at higher inflation pressures. Fortunately sidewall indentations are a cosmetic condition that does not affect the performance of the tires.
What is considered sidewall damage?
What is a Sidewall Tire Damage? Any relevant issues or deficiencies you encounter within the sidewall of your tires, may it be on the inner or outer side of the wall can be considered as sidewall damage. This is a very serious concern and can lead to a complete tire failure.
Can you drive with sidewall damage?
A sidewall tire damage is not safe to drive around with. The sidewalls of the tires are much more sensitive than the tread area. In many cases, the damage is damaging the whole structure of the tire, and it can cause it to blow at any moment.
What does R mean on tires?
radial tire“R” stands for the construction method of the tire indicating the tire is a radial tire. The following two numbers (16) indicate the diameter of the wheel rim in inches. The next two or three numbers (94) indicate the load index of the tire. In the example, 94 means the tire can carry 670kg.
What does Gr 78 15 mean on a tire sidewall?
What does GR 78-15 mean on a tire sidewall? G: Indicates the lead and the size relationship ( Higher the letter then larger the size and load carrying ability) R: Means the tire is radial. 78: The aspect; or the height-to-width ratio. 15: The rim diameter in inches.
How wide is a 275 tire?
275/70R17 tires have a diameter of 32.2", a section width of 10.8", and a wheel diameter of 17". The circumference is 101.0" and they have 627 revolutions per mile. Generally they are approved to be mounted on 7-8.5" wide wheels.
Can you patch a tire with a nail in the sidewall?
Puncture repairs are limited to the center of the tread area. If there are punctures or damage in the shoulder or sidewall of the tire, it is not repairable.
How do I know if my sidewall is damaged?
A tire with a bulge or bubble cannot be repaired.A bulge or bubble on the sidewall of a tire generally indicates damaged cords caused by a severe impact.Damaged cords are often accompanied by a visible break in the inner liner.If cords have been damaged, air has infiltrated into the plies and can result in a bulge.
Can hitting a curb damage tire?
Hitting a curb can do some nasty damage to your tires, let alone other vehicle components including the suspension. Even striking one at turtle-like speed can wreck your day!
What is a sidewall on a tire?
What is a Sidewall? As briefly mentioned, the sidewall is the part of the tire that can be seen when you look at a tire from the side when it is mounted on a vehicle. The sidewall possesses information about the tire including the brand name, tire size, tire code, DOT code, and possibly some design to make the tire look good.
What is the portion of a tire where the sidewall meets the tread called?
The portion of the tire where the sidewall meets the tread is called the shoulder and is one of the toughest parts of the tire.
What is the best preventative maintenance offered to a tire?
Ultimately, the best preventative maintenance offered to a tire is to ensure that the tire is properly inflated and never running low. Incorrect tire pressure can damage the tread, shoulder, and sidewall of a tire.
What is the critical part of a tire?
One critical component of the tire is the sidewall . The sidewall is the part of the tire that can be seen when looking directly at a tire from the side. It's where you'll find the tire manufacturer's name along with more important information about the tire.
Why are tires important?
Tires are crucial to safe passage as well as optimal vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.
Can a tire blow out?
Minor damage to a tire's side wall can eventually lead to serious tire failure such as a blowout. It is also a good idea to keep your tires clean and free of materials that may lead the rubber of the sidewall to break down prematurely.
Can sidewall damage be repaired?
If you experience sidewall damage, it is crucial to get your vehicle towed to a service station or your auto dealership so that your tire can be replaced. Sidewall damage can lead to serious tire failure. Even minor sidewall damage is a major issue and cannot be repaired.
