How to Read a Tire Size (P225/65R17 Explained for Canadian Drivers)
Every letter and number on your tire sidewall means something. Here is a plain-English breakdown of P225/65R17 94H M+S, so you know exactly what you are buying next time.
Walk around a tire and you'll see a wall of code — letters, numbers, dots, arrows. It isn't random. Every character gives you information about what the tire is designed for. Here's how to decode the most important string on the sidewall.
Example: P225/65R17 94H M+S
- P — "P-Metric" passenger-car rating. LT means Light Truck (for heavier loads and towing).
- 225 — Section width in millimetres, measured sidewall to sidewall.
- 65 — Aspect ratio. The sidewall height is 65% of the width. Lower = sportier, stiffer ride.
- R — Radial construction (which is virtually every tire sold today).
- 17 — Wheel diameter in inches. Must match your rim.
- 94 — Load index. 94 = up to 670 kg per tire.
- H — Speed rating. H = up to 210 km/h. Must meet or exceed your car's stock rating.
- M+S — "Mud and Snow." Better than summer tires, but NOT a winter tire. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake for true winter grip.
Where to Find Your Correct Size
Check the sticker on the driver-side door jamb — that is the manufacturer-recommended size, load, and pressure. Matching this guarantees fitment, speedometer accuracy, and safe handling. Never downsize load index without talking to a professional.
Unsure? Bring your car in or send us a photo of the sticker and we'll confirm your size over text in minutes.