UTQG
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The Uniform Tire Quality Grade Standards (UTQG) are descriptions stamped on the side of tires to give consumers an idea what type of performance and longevity to expect from their tire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (part of the U.S. Department of Transportation)requires a tire manufacturerto list the tire's treadwear, traction and temperature capabilities - the components of a UTWQ rating - on its sidewall.
Treadwear ratings are determined by examining the tire wear after driving 7,200 miles. Tires with higher treadwear numbers are expected to last longer than ones with low treadwear numbers.
Traction Grades are measure of how well a tire can grip the road. Tires are tested on concrete and asphalt. A tire can be assigned an AA, A, B, or C traction grade. Tires with the best traction earn an AA, and those with the worst traction still considered roadworthy earn a C. Tires not capable of earning a C are not DOT approved for use on public roads.
Tires are assigned an A, B, or C temperature grade. An "A" rating means that a tire can withstand the heat generated by driving over 115 mph. A "B" rating means that the tire can withstand the heat generated by driving 100 to 115 miles per hour. A "C" rating means that the tire can withstand the heat generated by driving 85 to 100 mph.
NHTSA established the Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards (UTQGS) in 49 CFR 575.104.
References
- [UTQG explanation] at tirerack.com
- [sidewall markings explained] by the NHTSA
- [SaferDriver.gov] - U.S. Government service to look up treadwear grades on different tires
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