How to Read and Understand a Tire Code

When it’s time to replace your tires, understanding the numbers and letters on the sidewall can make all the difference. Whether you’re driving through Kalispell’s icy winters or cruising across Montana highways, knowing how to read a tire code helps ensure your Ford gets the right fit for safety, comfort, and performance.

A tire code is a combination of letters and numbers printed on the tire’s sidewall that provides important information, such as size, load rating, and speed capability. For example, you might see something like P215/65R17 98H — it looks confusing at first, but it’s actually straightforward once you know how to break it down.

Example Tire Code Breakdown: P215/65R17 98H

Let’s decode this example step by step:

P – This stands for P-Metric, indicating that the tire is designed for passenger vehicles, such as cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks. Some tires might start with “LT” for light trucks or “T” for temporary spares.

215 – This is the tire’s width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. A wider tire often provides better traction.

65 – This number represents the aspect ratio or profile height as a percentage of the width. In this case, the sidewall height is 65% of 215mm.

R – Indicates the tire has radial construction, which is the modern standard for most vehicles.

17 – The diameter of the wheel the tire fits, in inches.

98 – This is the load index, showing how much weight the tire can carry safely. A higher number means more load capacity.

H – The speed rating, meaning this tire is approved for speeds up to 130 mph.

Driving conditions in Montana—especially around the Flathead Valley—can be unpredictable. Reading your tire code ensures you’re choosing tires that can handle everything from icy roads in Kalispell to rugged backroads near Glacier National Park. If you’re planning seasonal tire swaps, knowing your code makes it easier to find the correct snow or all-terrain options for your Ford F-150, Escape, or Bronco.

Q: How do I know when to replace my tires?
A: Most tires should be replaced every six years or when tread depth reaches 2/32”. Check for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear as early warning signs.

Q: Can I use a different tire size than what’s listed on my vehicle?
A: It’s best to stick to your Ford manufacturer’s recommended size to ensure accurate handling, braking, and speedometer readings.

Q: What’s the best tire for Montana winters?
A: Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol — it means the tire meets winter performance standards. Kalispell Ford and our parts team can help you find the right all-season or winter tires for local conditions.

If you’re unsure about your tire code or need new tires for your Ford, stop by Kalispell Ford today. Our team can help you choose, install, and balance the right tires for your driving needs — built for Montana’s changing weather.

📍 Visit us: 2000 U.S. Hwy 93 S, Kalispell, MT 59901
📞 Call us: (406) 755-9638
💻 Schedule online: Kalispell Ford