Read the sidewall first
Your size looks like 225/45R17 94V. 225 is section width in mm, 45 is the aspect ratio, R17 the wheel diameter, 94 the load index and V the speed rating. Match or exceed the load index and speed rating on the door placard — never go below them.
The DOT code ends in four digits: week and year of manufacture. Tires degrade with age even unused; avoid buying anything more than a couple of years old, and consider replacement around 6–10 years regardless of tread depth.
UTQG ratings, and their limits
Treadwear, traction (AA to C) and temperature (A to C) are stamped on the sidewall. Traction and temperature are meaningful minimum standards. Treadwear numbers are self-reported by each manufacturer and only comparable within one brand's range, not across brands.
All-season vs the alternatives
If you see real snow, look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF). The plain M+S marking is a much weaker standard and is not a winter certification.
| Type | Best for | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| All-season | Mild winters, mixed conditions | Compromised in real snow and ice |
| All-weather (3PMSF) | Occasional snow without a second set | Slightly faster wear |
| Winter | Sustained sub-45°F, snow, ice | Wears fast in summer heat |
| Summer/performance | Dry and wet grip, handling | Unsafe below about 45°F |
How to choose
- Prioritise wet braking distance in independent tests — it varies more between tires than dry grip does.
- Match the tire to your climate, not to a brand's reputation.
- Replace in sets of four where possible; on AWD it is often required by the driveline.
- Factor in road noise if you do a lot of highway miles.
- Budget for mounting, balancing, valve stems and disposal on top of the tire price.
Frequently asked questions
- When should I replace tires?
- At 4/32" of tread if you drive in rain or snow — wet performance falls off a cliff below that — and at 2/32" legally. Also replace on age, sidewall cracking, bulges or repeated punctures.
- Can I mix tire brands?
- Across an axle, no. Front-to-rear with matching size and type is acceptable on two-wheel drive but not ideal. On AWD, mismatched circumference can damage the driveline.
Related guides
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