2022 Toyota Camry Specifications
Maintenance data (fuel, oil level, etc.)
Dimensions and weights (2WD models)
Overall length |
192.1 in. (4880 mm)*2
192.7 in. (4895 mm)*3 194.6 in. (4944 mm)*7 |
|
Overall width | 72.4 in. (1840 mm)*2, 3
73.1 in. (1856 mm)*7 |
|
Overall height*1 | 56.9 in. (1445 mm)*2, 3
56.3 in. (1430 mm)*7 |
|
Wheelbase | 111.2 in. (2825 mm) | |
Tread*1 |
Front |
63.0 in. (1600 mm)*4
62.6 in. (1590 mm)*5 62.2 in. (1580 mm)*6 |
Rear |
63.2 in. (1605 mm)*4
62.8 in. (1595 mm)*5 62.6 in. (1590 mm)*6 |
|
Vehicle capacity weight (occupants + luggage) | 925 lb. (420 kg) |
- Unladen vehicles
- For LE or XLE grade models
- For SE or XSE grade models
- 205/65R16 tires
- 215/55R17 tires and TRD models with 235/40R19 tires
- 235/45R18, and SE or XSE grade models with 235/40R19 tires
- For TRD models
Dimensions and weights (AWD models)
Overall length | 192.1 in. (4880 mm)*2
192.7 in. (4895 mm)*3 |
|
Overall width | 72.4 in. (1840 mm) | |
Overall height*1 | 57.1 in. (1450 mm) | |
Wheelbase | 111.2 in. (2825 mm) | |
Tread*1 |
Front | 62.6 in. (1590 mm)*4
62.2 in. (1580 mm)*5 |
Rear | 63.0 in. (1600 mm)*4
62.8 in. (1595 mm)*5 |
|
Vehicle capacity weight (occupants + luggage) | 925 lb. (420 kg) |
- Unladen vehicles
- For LE or XLE grade models
- For SE or XSE grade models
- 215/55R17 tires
- 235/45R18 and 235/40R19 tires
Seating capacity
- Seating capacity 5 (Front 2, Rear 3)
Vehicle identification
Vehicle identification number
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the legal identifier for your vehicle. This is the primary identification number for your Toyota. It is used in registering the ownership of your vehicle.
- This number is stamped on the top left of the instrument panel.
- This number is also on the Certification Label.
Engine number
The engine number is stamped on the engine block as shown.
- 2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine
- 3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine
Engine
Model | A25A-FKS | 2GR-FKS |
Type | 4-cylinder in line, 4-cycle, gasoline | 6-cylinder V type, 4-cycle, gasoline |
Bore and stroke | 3.44 ´ 4.07 in.
(87.5 ´ 103.4 mm) |
3.70 ´ 3.27 in.
(94.0 ´ 83.0 mm) |
Displacement | 151.8 cu. in. (2487 cm3) | 210.9 cu. in. (3456 cm3) |
Valve clearance | Automatic adjustment | |
Drive belt tension | Automatic adjustment |
Fuel
Fuel type | Unleaded gasoline only |
Octane rating | 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher |
u For 2WD models | |
Fuel tank capacity | 16.0 gal. (60.6 L, 13.3 Imp. gal.) |
(Reference) | u For AWD models |
14.4 gal. (54.5 L, 11.9 Imp. gal.) |
Lubrication system
Oil capacity (Drain and refill Reference)
The engine oil capacity is a reference quantity to be used when changing the engine oil. Warm-up and turn off the engine, wait more than 5 minutes, and check the oil level on the dipstick.
With filter | Without filter | |
2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine | 4.8 qt.
(4.5 L, 4.0 Imp. qt.) |
4.4 qt.
(4.2 L, 3.7 Imp. qt.) |
3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine | 5.7 qt.
(5.4 L, 4.8 Imp. qt.) |
5.6 qt.
(5.3 L, 4.7 Imp. qt.) |
Engine oil selection
2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is used in your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota-approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to satisfy the following grade and viscosity.
Oil grade: ILSAC GF-6B multigrade engine oil Recommended viscosity: SAE 0W-16 SAE 0W-16 is the best choice for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather. If SAE 0W-16 is not available, SAE 0W-20 oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-16 at the next oil change.
Oil viscosity (0W-16 is explained here as an example)
- The 0W in 0W-16 indicates the characteristic of the oil which allows cold startability. Oils with a lower value before the Wallow for easier starting of the engine in cold weather.
- The 16 in 0W-16 indicates the viscosity characteristic of the oil when the oil is at a high temperature. An oil with a higher viscosity (one with a higher value) may be better suited if the vehicle is operated at high speeds, or under extreme load conditions.
How to read oil container label
API registered mark is added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use.
3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine
“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is used in your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota-approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to satisfy the following grade and viscosity. Oil grade: ILSAC GF-6A multigrade engine oil Recommended viscosity: SAE 0W-20 SAE 0W-20 is the best choice for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather. If SAE 0W-20 is not available, SAE 5W-20 oil may be used. However, it must be replaced with SAE 0W-20 at the next oil change.
Oil viscosity (0W-20 is explained here as an example)
- The 0W in 0W-20 indicates the characteristic of the oil which allows cold startability. Oils with a lower value before the Wallow for easier starting of the engine in cold weather.
- The 20 in 0W-20 indicates the viscosity characteristic of the oil when the oil is at a high temperature. An oil with a higher viscosity (one with a higher value) may be better suited if the vehicle is operated at high speeds, or under extreme load conditions.
How to read oil container label
The International Lubricant Specification Advisory Committee (ILSAC) Certification Mark is added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use.
Cooling system
Capacity (Reference) |
u 2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine 7.3 qt. (6.9 L, 6.1 Imp. qt.)
u 3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine 9.1 qt. (8.6 L, 7.6 Imp. qt.) |
Coolant type |
Use either of the following:
• “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” • Similar high-quality ethylene glycol-based non-silicate, non-amine, non-nitrite, and non-borate coolant with long-life hybrid organic acid technology Do not use plain water alone. |
Ignition system
Spark plug | |
Make | u 2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine |
DENSO FC16HR-Q8 | |
u 3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine | |
DENSO FK20HBR8 | |
Gap | 0.031 in. (0.8 mm) |
NOTICE
Iridium-tipped spark plugs Use only iridium-tipped spark plugs. Do not adjust spark plug gap.
Electrical system
Battery
Specific voltage reading at 68°F (20°C): |
12.3 V or higher If the voltage is lower than the standard value, charge the battery. (When checking the voltage, after turning the engine switch off, wait for 30 seconds with the high beam headlights illuminated, then turn the high beam headlights off and check the voltage.) |
Charging rates | 5 A max. |
Automatic transaxle
Fluid capacity* |
u 2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine 7.7 qt. (7.3 L, 6.4 Imp. qt.)
u 3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine 7.9 qt. (7.5 L, 6.6 Imp. qt.) |
Fluid type | Toyota Genuine ATF WS |
The fluid capacity is a reference quantity. If replacement is necessary, contact your Toyota dealer.
NOTICE
Transmission fluid type Using transmission fluid other than the above type may cause abnormal noise or vibration, or damage the transmission of your vehicle.
Transfer (AWD models)
Oil capacity | 0.47 qt. (0.45 L, 0.39 Imp. qt.) |
Oil type and viscosity | Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent |
Your Toyota vehicle is filled with “Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil” at the factory. Use Toyota approved “Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil” or an equivalent of matching quality to satisfy the above specification. Please contact your Toyota dealer for further details.
Rear differential (AWD models)
Oil capacity | 0.52 qt. (0.50 L, 0.43 Imp. qt.) |
Oil type and viscosity | Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT 75W-85 GL-5 or equivalent |
Your Toyota vehicle is filled with “Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil” at the factory. Use Toyota-approved “Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil” or an equivalent of matching quality to satisfy the above specification. Please contact your Toyota dealer for further details.
Brakes
Pedal clearance*1 | 3.2 in. (81 mm)*2, 3.1 in. (79 mm)*3 |
Pedal free play | 0.04 ¾ 0.24 in. (1 ¾ 6 mm) |
Brake pad wear limit | 0.04 in. (1.0 mm) |
Parking brake lining wear limit (pedal type) | 0.04 in. (1.0 mm) |
Parking brake pedal travel (pedal type)*4 | 7 ¾ 12 clicks |
Fluid type | FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703 FMVSS No.116 DOT 4 or SAE J1704 |
- Minimum pedal clearance when depressed with a force of 67 lbf (300 N, 31 kgf) while the engine is running.
- Except for TRD models
- For TRD models
- Parking brake pedal travel when depressed with a force of 67 lbf (300 N, 31 kgf).
Steering
- Free play Less than 1.2 in. (30 mm)
Tires and wheels (2WD models)
Type A
Tire size | 205/65R16 95H, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 16 ´ 6 1/2 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type B
Tire size | 215/55R17 94V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 17 ´ 7 1/2 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type C
Tire size | 235/45R18 94V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 18 ´ 8 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type D
Tire size | 235/40R19 92V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 19 ´ 8 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type E
Tire size |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Wheel size |
Wheel nut torque |
Type F
Tire size | 235/40R19 96Y, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
33 psi (230 kPa, 2.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 33 psi (230 kPa, 2.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 19 ´ 8 1/2 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Tires and wheels (AWD models)
Type A
Tire size | 215/55R17 94V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 17 ´ 7 1/2 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type B
Tire size | 235/45R18 94V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 18 ´ 8 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type C
Tire size | 235/40R19 92V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 36 psi (250 kPa, 2.5 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 19 ´ 8 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Type D
Tire size | 235/40R19 92V, T155/70D17 110M |
Tire inflation pressure (Recommended cold tire inflation pressure) |
Driving under normal conditions Front:
35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Rear: 35 psi (240 kPa, 2.4 kgf/cm2 or bar) Spare: 60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2 or bar) Driving at high speeds (above 100 mph [160 km/h]) (in countries where such speeds are permitted by law) Add 5 psi (30 kPa, 0.3 kgf/cm2 or bar) to the front tires and rear tires. Never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire sidewall. |
Wheel size | 19 ´ 8 1/2 J, 17 ´ 4 T (compact spare) |
Wheel nut torque | 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) |
Light bulbs*1
Light bulbs | Bulb No. | W | Type | |
Exterior |
Front side marker lights (bulb type) | W5W | 5 | A |
Front turn signal/ parking lights (bulb type) |
7444NA |
28/8 |
B |
|
Rear turn signal lights (bulb type) | WY21W | 21 | B | |
Rear side maker lights (bulb type) | W5W | 5 | A | |
Back-up lights (bulb type) | 921 | 16 | A | |
Interior |
Rear interior light*2 | ¾ | 8 | C |
Door courtesy lights*2 | ¾ | 5 | A | |
Trunk light | ¾ | 5 | A |
- A: Wedge base bulbs (clear)
- B: Wedge base bulbs (amber)
- C: Double-end bulbs
- Light bulbs not listed in this table are LED bulbs.
- If equipped
Fuel information
You must only use unleaded gasoline. Select octane rating 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher. Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane rating lower than 87 may result in engine knocking. Persistent knocking can lead to engine damage. At a minimum, the gasoline you use should meet the specifications of ASTM D4814 in the U.S.A.
Gasoline quality
In very few cases, driveability problems may be caused by the brand of gasoline you are using. If driveability problems persist, try changing the brand of gasoline. If this does not correct the problem, consult your Toyota dealer.
Recommendation of the use of gasoline containing detergent additives
- Toyota recommends the use of gasoline that contains detergent additives to avoid the build-up of engine deposits.
- All gasoline sold in the U.S.A. contains minimum detergent additives to clean and/or keep clean intake systems, per EPA’s lowest additives concentration program.
- Toyota strongly recommends the use of Top Tier Detergent Gasoline. For more information on Top Tier Detergent Gasoline and a list of marketers, please go to the official website www.toptiergas.com.
Recommendation of the use of low emissions gasoline
Gasoline containing oxygenates such as ethers and ethanol, as well as reformulated gasoline, are available in some cities. These fuels are typically acceptable for use, providing they meet other fuel requirements.
Toyota recommends these fuels since the formulations allow for reduced vehicle emissions.
Non-recommendation of the use of blended gasoline
- Use only gasoline containing up to 15%ethanol. DO NOT use any flex-fuel or gasoline that could contain more than 15% ethanol, including from any pump labeled E30, E50, E85 (which are only some examples of fuel containing more than 15% ethanol).
- If you use gasohol in your vehicle, be sure that it has an octane rating no lower than 87.
- Toyota does not recommend the use of gasoline containing methanol.
Non-recommendation of the use of gasoline containing MMT
- Some gasoline contains an octane enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcy-clopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).
- Toyota does not recommend the use of gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel containing MMT is used, your emission control system may be adversely affected.
- The malfunction indicator lamp on the instrument cluster may come on. If this happens, contact your Toyota dealer for service.
If your engine knocks
- Consult your Toyota dealer.
- You may occasionally notice light knocking for a short time while accelerating or driving uphill. This is normal and there is no need for concern.
NOTICE
- Notice on fuel quality
- Do not use improper fuels. If improper fuels are used, the engine will be damaged.
- Do not use leaded gasoline.
- Leaded gasoline can cause damage to your vehicle’s three-way catalytic converters causing the emission control system to malfunction.
- Do not use gasohol other than the type previously stated.
- Other gasohol may cause fuel system damage or vehicle performance problems.
- Using unleaded gasoline with an octane number or rating lower than the level previously stated will cause persistent heavy knocking.
- At worst, this will lead to engine damage.
- Fuel-related poor driveability
- If poor driveability (poor hot starting, vaporization, engine knocking, etc.) is encountered after using a different type of fuel, discontinue the use of that type of fuel.
- When refueling with gasohol
- Take care not to spill gasohol. It can damage your vehicle’s paint.
Tire information
Typical tire symbols
Full-size tire
Compact spare tire
- Tire size (P. 596)
- Summer tires or all-season tires (P. 480)
- An all-season tire has “M+S” on the sidewall. A tire not marked “M+S” is a summer tire.
- TUBELESS or TUBE TYPE
- A tubeless tire does not have a tube and air is directly put into the tire. A tube-type tire has a tube inside the tire and the tube maintains the air pressure.
- Radial tires or bias-ply tires
- A radial tire has “RADIAL” on the sidewall. A tire not marked “RADIAL” is a bias-ply tire.
- DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN) (P. 595)
- Location of treadwear indicators (P. 473)
- Uniform tire quality grading
- For details, see “Uniform Tire Quality Grading” that follows.
- Maximum cold tire inflation pressure (P. 584)
- This means the pressure to which a tire may be inflated.
- Load limit at maximum cold tire inflation pressure (P. 479)
- Tire ply composition and materials
- Plies are layers of rubber-coated parallel cords. Cords are the strands that form the plies in a tire.
- “TEMPORARY USE ONLY”
- A compact spare tire is identified by the phrase “TEMPORARY USE ONLY” molded on its sidewall. This tire is designed for temporary emergency use only.
Typical DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN)
- Type A
- Type B
- DOT symbol*
- Tire Identification Number (TIN)
- Tire manufacturer’s identification mark
- Tire size code
- Manufacturer’s optional tire type code (3 or 4 letters)
- Manufacturing week
- Manufacturing year
- Manufacturer’s code
The DOT symbol certifies that the tire conforms to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Tire size
Typical tire size information
The illustration indicates a typical tire size.
- 1 Tire use
- (P = Passenger car [some-times omitted],
- T = Temporary use)
- Section width (millimeters)
- Aspect ratio
- (tire height to section width)
- Tire construction code (R = Radial, D = Diagonal) Wheel diameter (inches)
- The load index (2 digits or 3 digits)
- Speed symbol (alphabet with one letter)
Tire dimensions
- Section width
- Tire height
- Wheel diameter
Tire section names
- Bead
- Sidewall
- Shoulder
- Tread
- Belt
- Inner liner
- Reinforcing
- rubber Carcass
- Rim lines
- Bead wires
- Chafer
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
This information has been prepared in accordance with regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It provides the purchasers and/or prospective purchasers of Toyota vehicles with information on uniform tire quality grading. Your Toyota dealer will help answer any questions you may have as you read this information.
DOT quality grades
All passenger vehicle tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades. Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width.
For example Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 – 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use. Performance may differ significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.
Temperature A, B, C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
- A sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
- Grade C corresponds to a level of performance that all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109.
- Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
- Warning: The temperature grades of a tire assume that it is properly inflated and not overloaded.
- Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
Glossary of tire terminology
Tire related term | Meaning |
Cold tire inflation pressure |
Tire pressure when the vehicle has been parked for three hours or more or has not been driven more than 1 mile or 1.5 km under that condition |
Maximum inflation pressure | The maximum cold inflated pressure to which a tire may be inflated, is shown on the sidewall of the tire |
Recommended inflation pressure | Cold tire inflation pressure recommended by a manufacturer |
Accessory weight |
The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory-installed equipment (whether installed or not) |
Curb weight |
The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment, including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, and if so equipped, air conditioning and additional weight optional engine |
Maximum loaded vehicle weight |
The sum of:
(a) Curb weight (b) Accessory weight (c) Vehicle capacity weight (d) Production options weight |
Normal occupant weight | 150 lb. (68 kg) times the number of occupants specified in the second column of Table 1* that follows |
Occupant distribution | Distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table 1* below |
Tire related term | Meaning |
Production options weight |
The combined weight of installed regular pro-duction options weighing over 5 lb. (2.3 kg) in excess of the standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim |
Rim |
A metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated |
Rim diameter (Wheel diameter) | Nominal diameter of the bead seat |
Rim size designation | Rim diameter and width |
Rim type designation | The industry manufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code |
Rim width | Nominal distance between rim flanges |
Vehicle capacity weight (Total load capacity) | The rated cargo and luggage load plus 150 lb. (68 kg) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity |
Vehicle maximum load on the tire |
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight, and dividing by two |
Vehicle normal load on the tire |
The load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight (distributed in accordance
with Table 1* below), and dividing by two |
Weather side | The surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire |
Bead |
The part of the tire that is made of steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that is shaped to fit the rim |
Bead separation | A breakdown of the bond between components in the bead |
Tire related term | Meaning |
Bias ply tire |
A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at alternate angles substantially less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread |
Carcass | The tire structure, except tread and sidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears the load |
Chunking | The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall |
Cord | The strands forming the plies in the tire |
Cord separation | The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds |
Cracking | Any parting within the tread, sidewall, or inner- liner of the tire extending to cord material |
CT |
A pneumatic tire with an inverted flange tire and rim system in which the rim is designed with rim flanges pointed radially inward and the tire is designed to fit on the underside of the rim in a manner that encloses the rim flanges inside the air cavity of the tire |
Extra load tire |
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire |
Groove | The space between two adjacent tread ribs |
Innerliner |
The layer(s) forming the inside surface of a tubeless tire that contains the inflating medium within the tire |
Innerliner separation | The parting of the innerliner from cord material in the carcass |
Intended outboard sidewall |
(a) The sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or
(b) The outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle |
Tire related term | Meaning |
Light truck (LT) tire |
A tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles |
Load rating | The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure |
Maximum load rating | The load rating for a tire at the maximum per- missible inflation pressure for that tire |
Maximum permissible inflation pressure | The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated |
Measuring rim | The rim on which a tire is fitted for physical dimension requirements |
Open splice | Any parting at any junction of tread, sidewall, or inner liner that extends to cord material |
Outer diameter | The overall diameter of an inflated new tire |
Overall width |
The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, including elevations due to labeling, decorations, or protective bands or ribs |
Passenger car tire |
A tire intended for use on passenger cars, multipurpose passenger vehicles, and trucks, that have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lb. or less. |
Ply | A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords |
Ply separation | A parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies |
Pneumatic tire |
A mechanical device made of rubber, chemicals, fabric, and steel or other materials, that, when mounted on an automotive wheel, pro-vides the traction and contains the gas or fluid that sustains the load |
Radial ply tire |
A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at substantially 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread |
Reinforced tire |
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire |
Tire related term | Meaning |
Section width |
The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, excluding elevations due to labeling, decoration, or protective bands |
Sidewall | That portion of a tire between the tread and bead |
Sidewall separation | The parting of the rubber compound from the cord material in the sidewall |
Snow tire |
A tire that attains a traction index equal to or greater than 110, compared to the ASTM E- 1136 Standard Reference Test Tire, when using the snow traction test as described in ASTM F-1805-00, Standard Test Method for Single Wheel Driving Traction in a Straight Line on Snow-and Ice-Covered Surfaces, and
which is marked with an Alpine Symbol ( ) on at least one sidewall |
Test rim |
The rim on which a tire is fitted for testing, and may be any rim listed as appropriate for use with that tire |
Tread | That portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road |
Tread rib | A tread section running circumferentially around a tire |
Tread separation | Pulling away of the tread from the tire carcass |
Treadwear indicators (TWI) | The projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication of the degrees of wear of the tread |
Wheel-holding fixture | The fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing |
Designated seating capacity, Number of occupants | Vehicle normal load, Number of occupants | Occupant distribution in a normally loaded vehicle |
2 through 4 | 2 | 2 in front |
5 through 10 | 3 | 2 in front, 1 in second seat |
11 through 15 |
5 |
2 in front, 1 in second
seat, 1 in third seat, 1 in fourth seat |
16 through 20 |
7 |
2 in front, 2 in second
seat, 2 in third seat, 1 in fourth seat |