Tire Size Guide for Drivers in the Philippines

Knowing the correct tire size is essential for safe driving, better fuel efficiency, and longer-lasting tires, especially when you are driving here in the Philippines. Whether you’re driving a car, SUV, or light truck, choosing the right size helps your vehicle perform the way it’s designed to. Choose the right tire size here at KGCAR.PH.

Where to Find Your Tire Size

You can check the correct tire size for your vehicle in three main places:

Inside the driver-side door frame
In your vehicle owner’s manual
On the tire sidewall itself

Always match new tires with your vehicle’s original specifications unless advised by a tire professional.

Tire Size Guide

Tire size looks like a code printed on the sidewall, such as P215/65R16 98H. Each part of this code tells you something about the tire’s measurements and capabilities.

Here’s what each section means:

P – Tire type (Passenger)
215 – Width in millimeters
65 – Aspect ratio (sidewall height)
R – Radial construction
16 – Rim diameter in inches
98 – Load index
H – Speed rating

How to Read Tires

Reading tire codes is easy once you break down the parts:

1. Tire Type

P = Passenger cars
LT = Light trucks
T = Temporary spare
ST = Trailer tire

2. Tire Width
The first number (e.g., 215) is the tire’s width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.

3. Aspect Ratio
This shows the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. A lower number means a shorter sidewall and sportier handling.

4. Construction Type

R = Radial (most common)
D/B = Bias ply

5. Rim Diameter
Measured in inches. A tire marked R16 fits a 16-inch rim.

6. Load Index
Shows how much weight the tire can carry. For example, a load index of 98 can support 750 kg.

7. Speed Rating
Indicates the maximum speed the tire can handle. A rating of H means up to 210 km/h.

What is Aspect Ratio in Tires

The aspect ratio is the height of the tire’s sidewall compared to its width, shown as a percentage.

For example, in 215/65R16, the aspect ratio is 65, which means the sidewall height is 65% of 215 mm.

Higher aspect ratio = more cushion and comfort
Lower aspect ratio = better handling, less flex

Tire Codes for SUVs and Trucks

If you drive a pickup or van, your tire size may begin with LT (Light Truck). Example: LT245/75R16.

You may also see C in the code, like 195/75R16C. That stands for Commercial use tires, which have higher load capacity.

These tires often have two load indexes, such as 121/119, to show single and dual usage capacity.

Speed Rating Guide

Each letter in the tire code represents a specific speed limit the tire is designed to handle safely.

Speed Rating	Max Speed (km/h)
R	170
S	180
T	190
H	210
V	240
W	270
Y	300

Always use a tire with a speed rating equal to or higher than your vehicle’s original tires.

Load Index Chart

Tires come with a number that shows how much weight they can carry when properly inflated.

Here are some common load index values:

Load Index	Load (kg)
91	615
94	670
98	750
104	900
120	1,400

Choose tires that meet or exceed the weight your car or truck is built to handle.

In Summary

Match OEM specs found on the door label or manual
Don’t mix tire types or sizes
Use tires with the right load index and speed rating
Get advice from a trusted tire dealer if unsure

Correct tire sizing helps improve fuel economy, comfort, and safety, especially on Philippine roads where conditions can vary greatly.