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Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) standards

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Uniform Tire Quality Grade Standards (UTQG) were originated to provide consumers with useful information to help them purchase tires based on their relative treadwear, traction and temperature capabilities. It is required by law for most passenger car tires sold in the United States.

When looking at UTQG ratings it is important to realize that the Department of Transportation does not conduct the tests. The grades are assigned by the tire manufacturers based on their test results or those conducted by an independent testing company they have hired. The NHTSA has the right to inspect the tire manufacturer's data and can fine them if inconsistencies are found. Once a grade is assigned it must be branded on the tire's upper sidewall and printed on its label.

Treadwear grades

UTQG Treadwear Grades are based on actual road use in which the test tire is run in a vehicle convoy along with standardized Course Monitoring Tires. The tire manufacturers then assign a Treadwear Grade based on the observed wear rates. The Course Monitoring Tire is assigned a grade, and the test tire receives a grade indicating its relative treadwear. A grade of 100 would indicate that the tire tread would last as long as the test tire, 200 would indicate the tread would last twice as long, 300 would indicate three times as long, etc.

Traction grades

UTQG Traction Grades are based on the tire's straight line wet coefficient of traction as the tire skids across the specified test surfaces. The UTQG traction test does not evaluate dry braking, dry cornering, wet cornering or high speed hydroplaning resistance.

In 1997, the UTQG Traction Grades were revised to provide a new category of AA for the highest performing tires in addition to the earlier A, B and C grades. Today the grades and their traction coefficients are as follows:

Temperature (resistance) grades

The UTQG Temperature Grade indicates the extent to which heat is generated and/or dissipated by a tire. If the tire is unable to dissipate the heat effectively or if the tire is unable to resist the destructive effects of heat buildup, its ability to run at high speeds is reduced. The grade is established by measuring a loaded tire's ability to operate at high speeds without failure by running an inflated test tire against a large diameter high-speed laboratory test wheel.

Every tire sold in the United States must be capable of earning a "C" rating which indicates the ability to withstand 85 mph speeds. While there are numerous detail differences, this laboratory test is similar in nature to those used to confirm a tire's speed ratings.

Comfort

When it comes to tires, comfort includes how smooth and how quiet the ride is. There are tradeoffs, but if comfort is paramount there are some factors to consider.

• Wheel size: The larger the wheel, the more tire rubber there is to produce road noise. Every vehicle has specifications for recommended wheel size, so if comfort is a factor, a smaller wheel should be used. Typically, you should replace a tire with the same sized tire that came with the vehicle unless a professional assists you. This ensures that your odometer and speedometer readings remain accurate.
• Tire width: Similar to wheel size, a wider width tire will allow more rubber to touch the pavement, creating more noise. To reduce noise, check the owner's manual for the narrowest tire recommended for a vehicle. Purchasing wider tires may also lead to rubbing on inner fenders and suspension, so it’s a good idea to get advice from a professional if you wish to get wider tires.
• Tread material and pattern: Tire manufacturers use several types of materials to create tires. The tread material and pattern affect how the tire will react with the road, and in some cases the smoothness of the ride is noticeable. Different materials will perform in different ways than others: winter tires are softer to grip the snow and cold roads; summer performance tires are designed for warmer temperatures above 45 degrees and all-season tires will appear and perform differently but are not designed for heavy snow.

Performance

For some drivers and vehicles, performance is a key factor when making a tire purchase. Tires are rated on performance by various tire manufacturers, and there are features that contribute to a higher speed rating.

• Wide tread: A wide tread provides for more rubber on the road and a better grip. However, a wider tread performs worse than a narrow one on snow.
• Low-profile sidewalls: A low-profile tire has a lower aspect ratio than a typical tire. This can increase performance by providing improved braking and handling. These tires are also more likely to get damaged by potholes.

Load rating / index

The load index is an assigned numerical value used to compare relative load carrying capabilities. The higher the tire's load index number, the greater its load carrying capacity. Typically, the load indexes of the tires used on passenger cars and light trucks range from 70 to 110.

When looking at light truck (LT) or newer Special Trailer Service (ST) tires, there are two load indexes branded on the sidewall, separated by a forward slash. The correct load rating changes on trailers depending on the situation in which the tire is being used.

Since LT tires are commonly used on trucks with dual rear wheels, they are branded with two load indexes. The first number indicates the load carrying capacity if the tire is installed on a truck with a single-wheel rear axle, and the second number applies when the tire is used in a dual rear application. A tire professional can advise you.

Durability

Durability refers to the how long a tire will last. Durability is directly related to road conditions and driving habits.

• Tire material: Different types of rubber are used in the tire manufacturing process. Harder rubber will make for a more durable tire but will give up some performance and ride comfort.
• Tire tread: The tread design chosen for tires are typically all-season tires except in the case of performance automobiles. Winter tires and off road tires offer a more aggressive tread pattern for grip in different conditions.

Traction

Traction is that grippy feeling that comes when the gas is applied and friction takes over between the road and the tire. Road conditions play a big role when it comes to traction, but some tires perform better than others.

• Tread design: The design of a tread pattern is not random. Tire manufacturers use specific designs that help to disperse water and limit hydroplaning, plus offer grip, braking, safety and handling. Snow tires are a good example of deep treads that are intended to cut through a certain amount of snow.
• Tread depth: Beyond dispersing water, the tread depth plays a role in traction, which is where the rubber can meet the road. Tread depth below 3/32” is considered unsafe and the tire should be replaced.

Handling

Handling is the way the vehicle responds to the driver. Handling includes how the tires respond to acceleration, braking and turning. Handling affects safety and driving comfort.

• Speed rating: Every vehicle manual specifies the recommended tire speed rating. To improve handling, some owners choose a tire of the same size but with a higher speed rating than specified.
• Larger wheels: Larger wheels will mean more tire on the road and increased handling. However, most manufacturers do not recommend going more than one inch above specifications. Always consult with tire experts before making any +1 or +2 changes. This can impact the safety features on your vehicle.
• Lower sidewalls: It is common for vehicle owners to go with larger wheels with narrow sidewalls. This improves handling, but it may decrease comfort, producing a rougher ride, and these tires can be damaged easier from impact to the sidewall from curbs and pot holes.

Price

Choosing which tires to buy should not be based on price alone. However, for most people price is a considerable factor. There are some ways to keep price down.

• Tire size: When it comes to pricing tires, quality and name brands will be your best choices. From a safety perspective, it’s best to stick with the vehicle manufacturer recommended tires.
• Retailer: It pays to shop around and compare prices when it comes to tires. There are many tire retailers, and there is almost always a sale of some sort, either online or in the store.
• Online: Online tire suppliers often work with local shops that can install and receive the tires. It’s best to do your homework online and in store before making a decision.
• Extras: There are deals to be found when purchasing tires. Some retailers offer extras such as free rotation for life, free air checks or free flat tire repair.