tyre markings australia Page 8

Those cryptic tyre hieroglyphs are actually useful in Australia, promise.

Example: 205/55R16 91V means a 205 mm width, 55% sidewall, radial construction, 16-inch rim, with load index 91 and speed rating V.

• The load index must meet or exceed your car’s placard, and the speed letter (H, V, W, etc.) is the maximum certified speed.
• The manufacturing date ends with a four‑digit code, like 2622 = week 26 of 2022 — anything older than about 5–6 years deserves a closer inspection.
• “Max Press” on the sidewall isn’t your target; use the pressure on the driver’s door placard. Arrows or “Rotation” show direction, and M+S/3PMSF markings indicate all‑season/winter grip.

Match size, load, and speed to the placard for legality and insurance, and you’ll be rolling straighter than a new Bunnings spirit level.