Where to find your tire size right now
Your tire size is printed on the sidewall of every tire on your vehicle, on a sticker inside your driver's door jamb, and in your owner's manual. The sidewall is the fastest option if you're standing next to your car. The door jamb sticker is the most reliable because it shows what size the manufacturer recommends for your specific vehicle. Your manual is useful if you need to reference the information later without going outside.
The tire size appears as a string of letters and numbers like P215/65R15 or LT245/75R16. Each character means something specific, and you'll need the complete string when buying replacements or checking your pressure. This guide walks you through finding it and understanding what each part means.
Key Takeaways
- Your tire size is printed on the sidewall of each tire, on a sticker inside your driver's door jamb, and in your vehicle's owner's manual.
- The door jamb sticker shows the manufacturer's recommended size for your vehicle and is the most reliable source.
- A tire size code like P215/65R15 contains the tire type, width, aspect ratio, construction type, and wheel diameter in that order.
- You need the complete tire size code when purchasing replacement tires or checking pressure specifications.
Reading the sidewall of your tire
Walk around your vehicle and look at the outer edge of any tire. The sidewall is the vertical rubber surface between the tread and the wheel rim. Near the top of this sidewall, you'll see a series of characters stamped or molded into the rubber. This is your tire size code, and it's the most visible location on the tire itself.
The code will look something like P215/65R15 95H. Write down the entire string exactly as it appears. The letters and numbers after the main size code (like the "95H" at the end) indicate load rating and speed rating, and you'll want those details if you're ordering replacements. Take a photo with your phone if you're worried about copying it down wrong.
One important note: if your vehicle has different tire sizes on front and rear axles, check both. Some trucks and performance vehicles use this setup. Write down the size for each position so you order the correct tire for each wheel.
Checking the driver's door jamb sticker
Open your driver's side door and look at the edge of the door frame where it meets the body of the car. You'll see a white or yellow sticker attached to the metal or plastic. This sticker is placed there by the manufacturer and contains several pieces of information about your vehicle, including the recommended tire size.
The tire size on this sticker is what the vehicle manufacturer determined is correct for your specific model and year. This is more reliable than the sidewall if you're replacing tires, because it accounts for your vehicle's weight, suspension, and performance specifications. The sticker may also show tire pressure recommendations, which differ from the tire size itself.
If the sticker is damaged or missing, you can still use the sidewall or your owner's manual. Some vehicles also have this information on a sticker inside the fuel door or on the rear of the driver's seat, though the door jamb is the standard location.
Finding the information in your owner's manual
Your vehicle's owner's manual contains a specifications section that lists the tire size. This is usually in the first or last section of the manual, or in a quick-reference guide at the front. Look for headings like "Tire and Wheel Specifications" or "Technical Specifications."
The manual is useful if you need to reference the size later without going to your car, or if you're shopping online and want to verify the information before you buy. It's also helpful if you're unsure whether you're reading the sidewall correctly. If you don't have a physical copy, you can search online for your vehicle's year, make, and model plus "owner's manual" to find a PDF version.
Understanding what each part of the tire size means
A tire size code breaks down into five parts. Using P215/65R15 as an example: the P means passenger vehicle tire. The 215 is the tire width in millimeters. The 65 is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. The R means radial construction, which is standard on all modern tires. The 15 is the wheel diameter in inches.
Some tires start with LT instead of P, which means light truck. Others may start with T for temporary spare tires. These designations matter when ordering replacements, so always use the complete code as it appears on your tire or door jamb sticker.
The numbers after the size code, like 95H, indicate load index and speed rating. The load index tells you how much weight the tire can carry. The speed rating tells you the maximum speed the tire is rated for. These are less critical for everyday driving, but they matter if you're buying performance tires or tires for a heavy-duty truck.
What to do if you can't find the size anywhere
If the sidewall is worn, the door jamb sticker is missing, and you don't have your manual, you have two options. First, call a tire shop with your vehicle's year, make, and model. They can look up the manufacturer's recommended size in their system in seconds. Second, search online for your vehicle's specifications using the same information.
You can also visit your vehicle manufacturer's website and navigate to the specifications page for your model year. Some manufacturers allow you to enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) to pull up exact specifications. Your VIN is on your registration, insurance card, or on a sticker inside the driver's side windshield.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different tire size than what's on the door jamb sticker?
You can use a different size, but the door jamb sticker shows what the manufacturer tested and approved for your vehicle. Changing the size affects speedometer accuracy, fuel economy, and handling. If you want a different size, a tire shop can tell you what sizes are compatible and what trade-offs you'll see.
What if my tires have different sizes on front and back?
Some vehicles, especially trucks and performance cars, come with different sizes front and rear. This is normal and intentional. When replacing tires, match the size for each position. Check both the front and rear sidewalls and note which size goes where.
Do I need the speed rating and load index when buying new tires?
You should match or exceed the speed rating and load index shown on your door jamb sticker. Tires with lower ratings may not handle your vehicle safely. A tire shop can help you find tires that meet or exceed these specifications if you're looking at different brands or models.
Is the tire size the same as the wheel size?
No. Tire size includes the width, aspect ratio, and construction type. Wheel size is just the diameter, which is the last number in the tire code. A 215/65R15 tire fits a 15-inch wheel, but the wheel itself may be 15 inches wide or narrow. You need both pieces of information when buying wheels and tires together.