Tyre Size & Speed Rating Guide

Where can I find my tyre size?

Knowing your correct tyre size is essential. Your tyre size is usually printed clearly on the sidewall of the tyre and follows a standard combination of numbers and letters used by all tyre manufacturers.

For a quick alternative check, you can also find your tyre size:

• Inside the driver’s door frame
• On a sticker inside the fuel filler flap
• In your vehicle handbook
• Feature Activation: Enabling hidden functions such as Apple CarPlay, Video in Motion, and digital cluster settings.
• Hardware Programming: Dedicated coding for critical components including headlights, instrument clusters, and control units.

If you’re still unsure, many online tyre retailers allow you to enter your vehicle registration number to instantly confirm the correct tyre size before booking mobile tyre fitting at your location.

How to read tyre sizes?

Once you’ve located the series of numbers and letters on your tyre sidewall, it’s easy to understand what they mean. Most tyres follow a standard format, for example: 195/55 R16 87V. Below is a simple breakdown to help you identify each part useful when booking mobile tyre fitting near you.

Tyre width (195)

This number shows the width of the tyre in millimetres, measured from sidewall to sidewall. Wider tyres can offer more grip, but handling and performance also depend on tread design, tyre compound, and road conditions.

Tyre height / profile (55)

This figure represents the sidewall height as a percentage of the tyre width.In this example, 55 means the sidewall height is 55% of 195mm (around 107mm).

Tyre construction (R)

The letter “R” stands for radial construction, which is used on almost all modern vehicles today. Radial tyres offer improved durability, handling, and fuel efficiency compared to older cross-ply designs.

Rim diameter (16)

This number indicates the wheel rim size in inches. A tyre marked “16” must be fitted to a 16-inch alloy or steel wheel. Using the wrong rim diameter can affect safety, handling, and insurance validity.

Load index (87)

The load index shows how much weight each tyre can safely carry.For example, a load index of 87 means each tyre can support up to 615kg. This is especially important for heavier vehicles, SUVs, vans, or when booking mobile tyre fitting near me for fully loaded cars.

Tyre speed rating (V)

The final letter represents the maximum safe speed the tyre is designed to handle. A V-rated tyre is approved for speeds of up to 149mph.

Tyre Speed Rating Chart

Below is a quick speed rating guide: