2005 Volvo S80
3. R: Radial tire.
4. 15: The diameter of the wheel rim (in inches).
5. 95: The tire's load index. In this example, a load index of 95 equals a maximum load of 1521 lbs (690
kg).
6. H: The tire's speed rating, or the maximum speed at which the tire is designed to be driven for
extended periods of time, carrying a permissible load for the vehicle, and with correct inflation pressure.
For example, H indicates a speed rating of 130 mph (210 km/h).
NOTE: This information may not appear on the tire because it is not required by law.
7. M+S or M/S = Mud and Snow, AT = All Terrain, AS = All Season
8. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): This begins with the letters "DOT" and indicates that the
tire meets all federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code where it was
manufactured, the next two are the tire size code and the last four numbers represent the week and year
the tire was built. For example, the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After 2000 the numbers
go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th week of 2001. The numbers in between are
marketing codes used at the manufacturer's discretion. This information helps a tire manufacturer
identify a tire for safety recall purposes.
9. Tire Ply Composition and Material Used: Indicates the number of plies indicates or the number of
layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the
ply materials in the tire and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.
10. Maximum Load: Indicates the maximum load in pounds and kilograms that can be carried by the
tire. Refer to the vehicle's tire information placard or the safety certification label, located on the B-Pillar
or the driver's door or on the inside of the fuel filler door on Canadian models, for the correct tire
pressure for your vehicle.
11. Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature grades: See
page 107
for more information.
12. Maximum permissible inflation pressure: the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put
in the tire. This limit is set by the tire manufacturer.
pg. 105 Wheels and tires
Glossary of tire terminology
The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such as standard load, radial
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