What does 55 mean on a tire?

There are a few different ways that a tire manufacturer can express the pressure rating of a tire. One of the most common ways is to use the term PSI (pounds per square inch). This method refers to the amount of force that a tire can apply per square inch of tread surface. For example, a tire with a rating of 55 PSI will be able to apply 55 pounds of force per square inch to the surface of the tire tread while it is in motion.

What does 55 mean on a tire mean?

The number 55 refers to the tire’s inflation pressure rating. tires are rated for different inflation pressures for different driving conditions and tire types. Most passenger cars are now equipped with tires rated for between 20 and 30 PSI. For more on tire pressure ratings, visit a tire shop or visit a website like Consumer Reports or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What does 59 mean on a tire tread?

Tread depth is the distance from the edge of the tire’s contact patch to the outer edge of the tread — it’s usually expressed in percent of the tire’s diameter. While the number may seem confusing at first, it’s actually very important. A tire with a low tread depth will quickly lose performance, especially in wet conditions. Tread depth is one of the tire’s biggest factors in ride quality, too.

What does 55 mean on an all-weather tire?

The number 55 is the maximum load rating for the tire, which equals the amount of weight it can safely carry. While this amount varies according to the type of tire, it's usually somewhere between 5,000 - 7,500 pounds. If you plan to tow a larger vehicle or carry a lot of cargo, you'll want to look for a tire with a higher load rating.

What does 55 mean on tire treads?

The number 55 refers to the amount of tread (in mm) on the tire. Tread is the rubber that provides the main contact with the road when driving. Tread helps to cushion the shock of every road hazard, promoting a smoother ride. The thinner the tread, the shorter the tire’s lifespan. Tires with little tread are more susceptible to getting flat, especially in wet conditions. If you notice odd sounds coming from your tires, like a grinding noise, your tread probably needs