non-detergent soap. Wipe gently in a circular motion. Then wipe dry using a soft, lint-free cloth.
Although seating surfaces are designed to repel stains, Tesla recommends regular cleaning to maintain performance and an
as-new appearance. Promptly treat dye transfer from clothing, such as indigo-dyed denim. Avoid contact with harsh
chemicals, including certain cosmetics. Never use cleaners containing alcohol or bleach. Spot-test cleaners on an
inconspicuous area before applying to visible surfaces.
If equipped with leather seats, note that leather is prone to dye-transfer which can cause discoloration, particularly on light
colored leather. White and tan leather is coated with an anti-soiling treatment. Using detergents or commercially available
leather cleaners and conditioners is not recommended because they can discolor or dry out the leather.
Vacuum seats as needed to remove any loose dirt.
CAUTION: Aftermarket, non-Tesla seat covers may inhibit the sensitivity of a seat's occupancy sensors and may cause
staining or damage.
CAUTION: The front seats are equipped with microphones (see Active Road Noise Reduction on page 61) that must not
be exposed to liquids. To prevent damage to these microphones when cleaning, do not over-saturate the area of the
seats where these microphones are located.
Carpets
Avoid over-wetting carpets. For heavily soiled areas, use a diluted upholstery cleaner.
Seat Belts
Extend the belts to wipe. Do not use any type of detergent or chemical cleaning agent. Allow the belts to dry naturally while
extended, preferably away from direct sunlight.
Door Seals
Wipe door seals with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Excessive debris on the door seals can cause damage when
contacting surrounding surfaces. Avoid using alcohol wipes or any chemical products that can potentially deteriorate the
coating on the door seals.
Tesla Built-In Rear Facing Child Seats
Vacuum the seats to remove any loose dirt. Wipe the seats with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. You can also use an
upholstery cleaner designed for automotive use. Extend the belts to wipe. Allow the belts to dry naturally, preferably away
from direct sunlight.
TouchscreenTouchscreenFront and Rear TouchscreensFront and Rear TouchscreensTouchscreen, Rear Touchscreen, and
Instrument PanelTouchscreen and Instrument Panel
Clean the touchscreen(s) and instrument panel using a soft lint-free cloth specifically designed to clean monitors and
displays. Do not use cleaners (such as a glass cleaner) or alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer) and do not use a
wet wipe or a dry statically-charged cloth (such as a recently washed microfiber). To wipe the front touchscreen without
activating buttons and changing settings, you can enable Screen Clean Mode. Touch Controls > Display > Screen Clean Mode.
The display darkens to make it easy to see dust and smudges. To exit Screen Clean Mode, press and hold HOLD TO EXIT.

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Chrome and Metal Surfaces
Polish, abrasive cleaners, alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer), and hard cloths can damage the finish on
chrome and metal surfaces.
Cautions for Interior Cleaning
CAUTION: Using solvents (including alcohol), alcohol-based gel products (such as hand sanitizer), bleach, citrus,
naphtha, or silicone-based products or additives on interior components can cause damage.
CAUTION: Statically-charged materials can cause damage to the touchscreen or instrument panel.
WARNING: If you notice any damage on an airbag or seat belt, contact Tesla immediately.
WARNING: Do not allow any water, cleaners, or fabric to enter a seat belt mechanism.
WARNING: Exposure to chemical cleaners can be hazardous and can irritate eyes and skin. Read and observe the
instructions provided by the manufacturer of the chemical cleaner.

Polishing, Touch Up, and Body Repair
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body, you can occasionally treat the paint surfaces with an approved polish
containing:
• Very mild abrasive to remove surface contamination without removing or damaging the paint.
• Filling compounds that fill scratches and reduce their visibility.
• Wax to provide a protective coating between the paint and environmental elements.
Regularly inspect the exterior paint for damage. Treat minor chips and scratches using a paint touch-up pen (available for
purchase from Tesla, depending on market region). Use the touch-up pen after washing but before polishing or waxing.
Repair rock chips, fractures or scratches. Refer to https://www.tesla.com/support/body-shop-support for more information
on repair locations and available services.
CAUTION: Do not use cutting pastes, color restoration compounds, or polishes containing harsh abrasives. These can
scour the surface and permanently damage the paint.
CAUTION: Do not use chrome polish or other abrasive cleaners.

Using a Car Cover
To preserve the cosmetic appearance of the body when CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is not being used, use a
genuine Tesla car cover. Car covers can be purchased online from the Tesla Shop.

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CAUTION: Use only a Tesla-approved car cover when CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is plugged in. Using a
non-Tesla car cover can prevent the Battery from being adequately cooled during charging.

Floor Mats
To extend the life of your carpet and make them easier to clean, use genuine Tesla floor mats available online at http://
www.tesla.com. Maintain floor mats by regularly cleaning them and checking that they are properly attached. Replace floor
mats if they become excessively worn.
WARNING: To avoid potential interference with a foot pedal, ensure that the driver’s floor mat is securely fastened, and
never place an additional floor mat on top of it. Floor mats should always rest on top of the vehicle carpeting surface and
not on another floor mat or other covering.

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Tire Pressures
Displaying Tire Pressures
Tire pressures display on the touchscreen by touching Controls > Service, or use the mobile app. The pressure of each tire
displays in the visualization of CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y, in addition to the time the tire pressures were last
read by the system.
The touchscreen also displays your vehicle's recommended cold tire pressures so you can easily determine how much to
inflate your tires.
To choose whether to display tire pressures using Bar or PSI, touch Controls > Display > Tire Pressure.
NOTE: You may need to drive briefly before the visualization displays the tire pressure values.

Maintaining Tire Pressures

Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressures, even if it differs from the pressure printed on the tire itself. The Tire and
Loading Information label on the center door pillar is visible when the driver door is open and represents a nominal driving
scenario in which the vehicle is carrying cargo in the front trunk and up to five passengers. When carrying heavy loads, up to
the vehicle's GVWR, in a Cybertruck equipped with All Terrain tires, the tire pressures should be increased.
Tires (Front and Rear)
20" All Season
20" All Terrain

Normal Load*

GVWR**

50 psi

50 psi

50 psi

65 psi

*Normal Load assumes a fully loaded front trunk and up to five occupants (see Calculating Load Limits on page 1426).
**GVWR load capacity not exceeding the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (see Weights - Vehicle on page 1430).
CAUTION: If you are towing a trailer, do not use the tire pressures printed on the Tire and Loading Information Label.
Instead, refer to the tire pressures published (see Tire Pressures when Towing on page 1250).
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The Low Tire Pressure indicator light on the touchscreen alerts you if a tire is under-inflated. This light does not
immediately turn off when you adjust tire pressure. After inflating the tire to the recommended pressure, you
must drive over 15 mph (25 km/h) for a short amount of time to activate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
(TPMS), which turns off the Low Tire Pressure indicator light.

If the indicator light flashes for one minute whenever you power on CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y, a fault with
the TPMS is detected.
Your vehicle’s tire pressures will drop in cold ambient temperatures. If the TPMS indicator light appears, inflate the tires before
driving. The tires will lose approximately one PSI for every 10° F (6° C) drop in outside temperature. Proper tire pressures help
protect tires from potholes and improve range and tire longevity when properly inflated.
WARNING: The Low Tire Pressure indicator light alerts you only in situations when a tire is below the recommended
threshold (as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label) under normal driving conditions. It does not alert you
when a tire is under-inflated based on the load you are carrying.
WARNING: Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failures and can cause a tire to overheat, resulting in severe
tire cracking, tread separation, or blowout. This may lead to unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of
injury. Under-inflation also reduces the vehicle's range and tire tread life.

Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures
WARNING: Check tire pressures using an accurate pressure gauge when tires are cold. It takes only about one mile
(1.6 km) of driving to warm up the tires sufficiently to affect tire pressures. Parking the vehicle in direct sunlight or in hot
weather can also affect tire pressures. If you must check warm tires, expect increased pressures. Do not let air out of
warm tires in an attempt to match recommended cold tire pressures. A hot tire at or below the recommended cold tire
inflation pressure is dangerously under-inflated.
Follow these steps when tires are cold and CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y has been stationary for over three
hours:
1. Refer to the Tire and Loading Information label located on the driver’s center door pillar for the target tire pressure.
2. Remove the wheel cover (see Removing and Installing Wheel Covers on page 1395).
3. Remove the valve cap.
4. Firmly press an accurate tire pressure gauge onto the valve to measure pressure.
NOTE: You can also view tire pressures on the touchscreen.

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5. If required, add or remove air to reach the recommended pressure.
NOTE: You can release air by pressing the metal stem in the center of the valve.
6. Re-check pressure using the accurate tire gauge.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 as necessary until the tire pressure is correct.
8. Reinstall the valve cap to prevent dirt from entering. Periodically check the valve for damage and leaks.
9. Reinstall the wheel cover.

Tire Pressure Monitoring
Each tire should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the recommended pressures (see Maintaining Tire Pressures
on page 1389). If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure
label, determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.
When the Tire Pressure indicator light displays on the touchscreen to alert you about tire pressure, stop and check your tires
as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure (see Maintaining Tire Pressures on page 1389). Driving on a
significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces range
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability.
If CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y detects a fault with the TPMS, this indicator flashes for one
minute whenever you power on CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y.

NOTE: Installing accessories that are not approved by Tesla can interfere with the TPMS.
WARNING: The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, including manually checking tire pressures and
regularly inspecting the condition of tires. It is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has not reached the level for the TPMS to trigger the Tire Pressure indicator light on the touchscreen.

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Inspecting and Maintaining Tires
Regularly inspect the tread and side walls for any sign of distortion (bulges), foreign objects, cuts or wear.
WARNING: Do not drive CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y if a tire is damaged, excessively worn, or inflated to
an incorrect pressure. Check tires regularly for wear, and ensure there are no cuts, bulges or exposure of the ply/cord
structure.
To improve the mileage you get from your tires, maintain tires at the recommended tire pressures, observe speed limits and
advisory speeds, and avoid:
• Pulling away quickly, or hard acceleration.
• Fast turns and heavy braking.
• Potholes and objects in the road.
• Hitting curbs when parking.
• Contaminating tires with fluids that can cause damage.

Tire Wear
Adequate tread depth is important for proper tire performance.
CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is originally fitted with tires that have wear indicators molded into the tread
pattern. When the tread has been worn down to 2/32” (1.6 mm), the indicators start to appear at the surface of the tread
pattern, producing the effect of a continuous band of rubber across the width of the tire. For optimal performance and safety,
Tesla recommends replacing tires before the wear indicators are visible.
Tires with a tread depth less than 4/32” (3 mm) are more likely to hydroplane and should not be used when driving in wet
conditions. Tires with a tread depth less than 5/32” (4 mm) do not perform well in snow and slush and should not be used
when driving in winter conditions.
To improve vehicle handling characteristics and minimize hydroplaning in wet conditions, put tires with the most tread on the
rear of the car.

Tire Rotation, Balance, and Wheel Alignment
Tesla recommends rotating the tires every 6,250 miles (10,000 km) or if tread depth difference is 2/32 in (1.6 mm) or greater,
whichever comes first.
Tire rotation is an essential part of tire maintenance. It helps maintain an even tread wear pattern which enhances the tire's
overall wear quality, decreases road noise and maximizes tire life.
Unbalanced wheels (sometimes noticeable as vibration through the steering wheel) affect vehicle handling and tire life. Even
with regular use, wheels can get out of balance. Therefore, they should be balanced as required.
If tire wear is uneven (on one side of the tire only) or becomes abnormally excessive, check the wheel alignment.
Punctured Tires
A puncture eventually causes the tire to lose pressure, which is why it is important to check tire pressures frequently.
Permanently repair (if safe to do so) or replace punctured or damaged tires as soon as possible.
Your tubeless tires may not leak when penetrated, provided the object remains in the tire. If, however, you feel a sudden
vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you suspect a tire is damaged, immediately reduce your speed. Drive slowly,
while avoiding heavy braking or sharp steering and, when safe to do so, stop the vehicle and contact Roadside Assistance.
NOTE: In some cases, you can temporarily repair small tire punctures (under 1/4” (6 mm)) using an optional tire repair kit
available from Tesla. This allows you to slowly drive CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y to a nearby tire repair facility.
WARNING: Do not drive with a punctured tire that has not been repaired, even if the puncture has not caused the tire to
deflate. A punctured tire can deflate suddenly at any time.

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Flat Spots
If CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is stationary for a long period, tires can form flat spots. When
CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is driven, these flat spots cause a vibration which gradually disappears as the
tires warm up and regain their original shape.
To minimize flat spots during storage, inflate tires to the maximum pressure indicated on the tire's sidewall. Then, before
driving, release air to adjust tire pressure to the recommended levels.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
After replacing one or more wheels (but not after just replacing a tire or rotating wheels), the TPMS sensors are reset to
ensure tire pressure warnings are accurate. TPMS sensors reset automatically after driving over 15 mph (25 km/h) for longer
than 10 minutes.
NOTE: After replacing a wheel, false tire pressure warnings may display before you've driven 15 mph (25 km/h) for longer than
10 minutes.
WARNING: If your CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is equipped with aftermarket tires that differ in size from
those printed on the Tire and Loading Information Label (see Vehicle Loading on page 1424), it is the driver's
responsibility to determine the correct tire pressure. Do not drive on public roads when tires are not inflated to the
correct pressure.
WARNING: Do not depend on TPMS sensors to accurately determine pressures and trigger alerts. It is the driver's
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures (see Maintaining Tire Pressures on page 1389). Over or under-inflated
tires can result in loss of control or tire damage, which can lead to serious injury.
TPMS Malfunction
CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the tire pressure indicator light. When the system detects a
malfunction, the indicator flashes for approximately one minute, then remains continuously lit. This sequence
continues upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the TPMS malfunction
indicator is on, the system might not be able to detect or signal under-inflated tires as intended.

TPMS malfunctions can occur for a variety of reasons, including installing replacement or alternate tires or wheels that prevent
the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction indicator light after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement tires or wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.
NOTE: If a tire has been replaced or repaired using a different tire sealant than the one available from Tesla, and a low tire
pressure is detected, it is possible that the tire sensor has been damaged. Use the mobile app to schedule a service
appointment to have the fault repaired as soon as possible.
Replacing a Tire Sensor
If the Tire Pressure warning indicator displays frequently, schedule a service appointment to determine if a tire sensor needs
to be replaced. Non-Tesla Service Center must replace using a Tesla OEM sensor.

Seasonal Tire Types
Understand Your Tire Type
The type of tires that your vehicle is originally equipped with depends on vehicle model and market region. It is important to
understand the capabilities of your vehicle's tires and whether they are suited for summer, all-season, or winter driving. Check
the information on the sidewall of a tire for information about a tire's performance characteristics (see Tire Pressures on page
1389).

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Summer and All-Season Tires
Summer tires and all season tires are designed for maximum dry and wet road performance but are not designed to perform
well in winter conditions. All-season tires are designed to provide adequate traction in most conditions year-round, but may
not provide the same level of traction as winter tires in snowy or icy conditions. All-season tires can be identified by “ALL
SEASON" and/or "M+S” (mud and snow) on the tire sidewall.
If driving in cold temperatures or on roads where snow or ice may be present, Tesla recommends using winter tires.
WARNING: In cold temperatures or on snow or ice, summer and all-season tires do not provide adequate traction.
Selecting and installing the appropriate tires for winter conditions is important to ensure the safety and optimum
performance of your CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y.
All-Terrain Tires
Use all-terrain tires if you regularly drive on gravel and dirt roads. All-terrain tires are suitable for driving on both paved roads
(city streets, highways, etc.) as well as off-road (sand, dirt, mud, etc.). All-terrain tires must be the same diameter, brand,
construction and tread pattern on all four wheels.
When driving with all-terrain tires, you may experience more road noise, shorter tread life, and less traction on dry roads.
Winter Tires
Use winter tires to increase traction in snowy or icy conditions. When installing winter tires, always install a complete set of
four tires at the same time. Winter tires must be the same diameter, brand, construction and tread pattern on all four wheels.
Winter tires can be identified by a mountain/snowflake symbol on the tire's sidewall.

When driving with winter tires, you may experience more road noise and shorter tread life.

Driving in Low Temperatures
Tire performance is reduced in low ambient temperatures, resulting in reduced grip and an increased susceptibility to damage
from impacts. Performance tires (summer applications) have reduced traction in ambient temperatures below 5° C40° F (5°
C), and are not recommended in snow/ice conditions. Performance tires can temporarily harden when cold, causing you to
hear rotational noise for the first few miles (kilometers) until the tires warm up.

Tire Chains
Only use tire chains on the REAR tires.
Tesla has tested and approved the following tire chains to increase traction in snowy conditions. Install tire chains on rear tires
only. The approved tire chains can be purchased from Tesla.
CAUTION: You must remove wheel covers before installing tire chains. Failure to do so can cause damage not covered by
the warranty.
Tire Size

Recommended Chain

20"

Konig XD-16 Pro Size 285

When installing tire chains, follow the instructions and warnings provided by the tire chain manufacturer. Mount them evenly
and as tight as possible.
When using tire chains:
• Inspect the tire chains for loose fittings and damaged links before each use.
• Set air suspension to Medium and turn off the Preferred Ride Height to Low setting (see Suspension on page 1231).

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• Avoid heavily loading CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y (heavy loads can reduce the clearance between the tires
and the body).
• Do not drive the vehicle without the chains properly installed.
• Drive slowly. Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
• Remove the tire chains as soon as conditions allow.
NOTE: Tire chains are prohibited in some jurisdictions. Check local laws before installing tire chains.
CAUTION: Using non-recommended tire chains, or using tire chains on other sized tires can damage the suspension,
body, wheels, and/or brake lines. Damage caused by using non-recommended tire chains, or incorrectly installing tire
chains, is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION: Never deflate your tires to put on tire chains. When re-inflated, the chains might fit too tightly and cause tire
damage.
CAUTION: Install tire chains on rear tires only. Installing chains on front tires can cause damage.
CAUTION: Ensure that the tire chains cannot touch suspension components or brake lines. If you hear the chains making
unusual noises that would indicate contact with CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y, stop and investigate
immediately.

Removing and Installing Wheel Covers
If your CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y is equipped with wheel covers, you must remove them to access the valve
stem and the lug nuts.
To remove a wheel cover:
1. Grasp the cover firmly with both hands.
2. Pull the cover toward you to release the retaining clips.

NOTE: Make sure the mounting ring is removed with the wheel cover.
To install a wheel cover:
1. Separate the mounting ring from the wheel cover by pulling the platic ring from the inside of the wheel cover.

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2. Align the mounting ring with the spokes of the wheel. Firmly press the mounting ring into the wheel to secure it.

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3. Align the wheel cover with the design of the tire.
4. Firmly press the center of the cover to secure it in place, then work your way out to firmly pressing the outer perimeter of
each spoke. You may need to hold the opposite side of the cover until all spokes are secured.
5. Firmly press the center of the cap with your hands (do not hit the cover with your hands) to ensure it is secured.
6. As a final check, quickly pull each spoke to confirm it is secured in place.

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CAUTION: To prevent the wheel cover from falling off, ensure that it is fully secured before driving.

Wheel and Tire Specifications
Wheel Specifications (Factory)
Configuration - Location

Size (in)

Offset (mm)

Dual Motor - Front and Rear

20 x 9.0J

ET58.5

Tri Motor - Front and Rear

20 x 9.0J

ET58.5

Lug Nut Torque

151 lb. ft (205 Nm)

Lug Nut Socket Size

21 mm

NOTE: For instructions on how to jack/lift CybertruckModel SModel XModel 3Model Y, see Jacking and Lifting on page 789.

Tire Specifications (Factory)
Location

Type/Purpose

Name

Design

Size

Front and Rear

20" All Season

Pirelli Scorpion ATR

Hard Metric

285/65R20

Front and Rear

20" All Terrain

Goodyear Wrangler
Territory RT

Light Truck

LT285/65R20

Refer to the tire pressures printed on the Tire and Loading Information label. This label is located on the center door pillar
and is visible when the driver's door is open (also see Checking and Adjusting Tire Pressures on page 1390).
Winter tires can be purchased from a Tesla service center or may be available for purchase on the Tesla web site.

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WARNING: Do not use tires with a load carrying capacity that is lower than the original tires. Doing so can reduce the
maximum GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) as printed on the door pillar
(Weights - Vehicle on page 1430). Conversely, replacement tires with a higher load capacity do not increase the GVWR
and GAWR.

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Understanding Tire Markings
Laws require tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and
describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire. It also provides the tire identification number (TIN) for certification of
safety standards, and in case of a recall.

NOTE: You can identify a Tesla-approved tire by the "T-mark" specification on the tire's sidewall (for example, T0, T1,
T2).Tesla-approved tires are designed to work with your vehicle and optimize performance, safety, reliability, and durability.
For more information about Tesla-approved replacement tires, refer to the Service Manual.
1. Tire category: P (passenger), LT (light truck), or None (hard metric) indicates the tire classification and corresponding load
classification.
2. Tire width: This 3-digit number is the width (in millimeters) of the tire from sidewall edge to sidewall edge.
3. Aspect ratio: This 2-digit number is the sidewall height as a percentage of the tread width. So, if the tread width is 205 mm,
and the aspect ratio is 50, the sidewall height is 102 mm.
4. Tire construction: R indicates that the tire is of Radial ply construction.
5. Wheel diameter: This 2-digit number is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
6. Load index: This 2 or 3-digit number is the weight each tire can support. This number is not always shown.

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7. Speed rating: When stated, indicates the maximum speed (in mph) at which the tire can be used for extended periods.
Q=99 mph (160 km/h), R=106 mph (170 km/h), S=112 mph (180 km/h), T=118 mph (190 km/h), U=124 mph (200 km/h),
H=130 mph (210 km/h), V=149 mph (240 km/h), W=168 mph (270 km/h), Y=186 mph (300 km/h), (Y)=vehicle's top speed
(exceeds the "Y" rating).
8. Load range: Shown as Standard Load (SL) or Extra Load (XL), the load range determines how much weight your tires can
support at a specified tire pressure. When replacing tires, only use tires of the same load range. If towing with snow tires,
ensure they are the same load range of the tires your vehicle came equipped with.
9. Tire composition and materials: The number of plies in both the tread area and the sidewall area indicates how many layers of
rubber coated material make up the structure of the tire. Information is also provided on the type of materials used.
10. Maximum tire load: The maximum load which can be carried by the tire.
11. Maximum permissible inflation pressure: This pressure should not be used for normal driving.
12. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): Begins with the letters DOT and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards.
The next 2 digits/letters represent the plant code where it was manufactured, and the last 4 digits represent the week and
year of manufacture. For example, the number 1712 is used to represent the 17th week of 2012. The other numbers are
marketing codes used at the manufacturer’s discretion. This information can be used to contact consumers if a tire defect
requires a recall.
13. Treadwear grade: This number indicates the tire’s wear rate. The higher the treadwear number is, the longer it should take
for the tread to wear down. A tire rated at 400, for example, lasts twice as long as a tire rated at 200.
14. Traction grade: Indicates a tire’s ability to stop on wet roads. A higher graded tire should allow you to stop your vehicle in a
shorter distance than a tire with a lower grade. Traction is graded from highest to lowest as AA, A, B, and C.
15. Temperature grade: The tire’s resistance to heat is grade A, B, or C, with A indicating the greatest resistance. This grading is
provided for a correctly inflated tire, which is being used within its speed and loading limits.

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Uniform Tire Quality Grading
The following information relates to the tire grading system developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA), which grades tires by tread wear, traction and temperature performance. Tires that have deep tread, and winter
tires, are exempt from these marking requirements.
Where applicable, quality grades are found on the tire’s sidewall between the tread shoulder and maximum section width. For
example:
• TREADWEAR 180
• TRACTION AA
• TEMPERATURE A
The quality grades are described next.
NOTE: In addition to the marking requirements, passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 wears one and a half times better on a government test course than a tire graded 100. The
relative performance of tires depends on the actual conditions of their use, however, and can depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, road characteristics, and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are: AA, A, B, and C. These grades represent a tire’s ability to stop on wet
pavement as measured under controlled conditions on test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C might have poor
traction performance.
WARNING: Defective tires are dangerous. Do not drive if a tire is damaged, excessively worn, or is inflated to an
incorrect pressure. The safety of the vehicle and occupants can be adversely affected. Check tires regularly for wear
and to ensure there are no cuts, bulges or exposure of the ply/cord structure.
WARNING: The traction grade assigned to the tire is based on straight-ahead braking tests, and does not include:
acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability
to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high
temperature can cause the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to the minimum level of performance that all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor
Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel that exceed the
minimum requirements.
WARNING: A tire’s temperature grade is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive
speed, under-inflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible
tire failure.

Tire and Loading Glossaries
General Wheel and Tire Terms
Accessory Weight

The combined weight (in excess of those items replaced) of items available as factory installed
equipment.

Bead

The inner edge of a tire that is shaped to fit to the rim and form an air tight seal. The bead is
constructed of steel wires which are wrapped, or reinforced, by the ply cords.

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Cold Tire Pressure

The air pressure in a tire that has been standing in excess of three hours, or driven for less than one
mile.

Curb Weight

The weight of a standard vehicle, including any optional equipment fitted, and with the correct fluid
levels.

Gross Vehicle Weight

The maximum permissible weight of a vehicle with driver, passengers, load, luggage, and