TIRE INFORMATION
A few things
worth knowing.
Simple tire information for drivers, truck owners, equipment operators, and anyone trying to figure out what their tires are telling them. If you still aren't sure, call Valley Tire and we'll help.
How to read a tire size
Tire sizes can look confusing at first. Learn what the numbers and letters mean and where to find the size printed on your tire.
Read guideHow to check tire pressure
Learn where to find your recommended pressure and why checking it regularly matters for handling, wear, and tire life.
Read guideHow to check tire tread
A quick tread check can tell you a lot about tire wear. Learn what to look for before a worn tire becomes a bigger problem.
Read guideWhat to do with a flat tire
If you have a flat or damaged tire, knowing what to do next can help protect the tire, the vehicle, and you.
Read guideUnderstanding your spare tire
Know what kind of spare you have, how it differs from your regular tire, and what to keep in mind if you need to use it.
Read guideTIRE SIZE
How to read a tire size
A tire size such as 235/65R17 or 11R22.5 carries information about the tire's dimensions and construction. The exact format varies by application, so the easiest place to start is the sidewall of the tire you have now.
Passenger and light truck example
In 235/65R17, 235 is the tire width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches.
Truck example
In 11R22.5, 11 refers to the nominal tire width, R indicates radial construction, and 22.5 is the wheel diameter in inches.
If you're shopping for a replacement, send us the complete size from the sidewall. You can also search the Valley Tire catalog by tire size or name.
TIRE PRESSURE
How to check tire pressure
Check pressure with a reliable gauge when the tires are cold, when possible. Use the vehicle or equipment manufacturer's recommended pressure rather than the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall.
Pressure can affect handling, ride, wear, and tire performance. If a tire keeps losing pressure, don't simply keep adding air—have the tire and wheel checked for a leak or damage.
TIRE TREAD
How to check your tire tread
Look across the tread rather than checking only one spot. Uneven wear, exposed wear bars, cuts, cracking, bulges, or other visible damage are reasons to have the tire evaluated.
Tread depth is only part of the picture. Age, condition, application, load, and how the tire has worn can all matter. If you're unsure about a tire, bring it by or call us.
FLAT TIRE
What to do when you have a flat tire
Move to a safe location if you can and avoid driving farther than necessary on a flat or severely damaged tire. Continuing to drive can turn a repairable tire into one that needs to be replaced.
If the tire is at a vehicle, truck, trailer, or piece of equipment that can't easily come to the shop, call Valley Tire about road service. Give us your location, what you're driving, and what happened.
SPARE TIRE
Understanding your spare tire
Some vehicles have a full-size spare while others use a temporary spare designed only for limited use. Check the vehicle's instructions for speed and distance limits before relying on a temporary spare.
If your spare has been sitting for years, check its condition and pressure before you need it. A spare that is damaged, severely aged, or low on air may not be ready for an emergency.
STILL NOT SURE?
That's what we're here for.
Tell Valley Tire your tire size, vehicle, equipment, or tire problem and we'll help you figure out the next step.