In short
In 205/55 R16 91V, 205 is the width in millimetres, 55 the profile (sidewall height as a percentage of the width), R indicates radial construction, 16 the rim diameter in inches, 91 the load index and V the speed code. You find it on the tyre sidewall and on the vehicle registration document.
The code step by step
| Part | Value | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 205 | Section width in millimetres |
| Profile | 55 | Sidewall height: 55% of the width (here 112.75 mm) |
| Construction | R | Radial (almost all modern tyres) |
| Rim | 16 | Rim diameter in inches |
| Load index | 91 | Maximum load per tyre: 615 kg |
| Speed code | V | Maximum speed: 240 km/h |
On high-performance tyres you may find ZR before the rim size (for example 225/45 ZR18): it is still permitted and indicates radial tyres for over 240 km/h; the actual speed is given by the code (W, Y) and, above 300 km/h, by the code in brackets, for example (95Y).
Where to find the size
- On the tyre sidewall, embossed, as the first code after the model name.
- On the vehicle registration document of your car or motorcycle.
- With our finder: choose make and model and we show you the factory sizes, with factory load index and speed code.
Other markings on the sidewall
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| XL / Reinforced | Reinforced casing: supports a higher load for the same size |
| RF / Run-flat | Tyre that lets you keep driving for a limited distance even when flat |
| C | Tyre for commercial vehicles (for example 215/65 R16C) |
| M+S | Mud and Snow: mud and snow marking found on winter tyres and many all-season tyres |
| Snowflake (3PMSF) | Three-peak mountain with snowflake: tyre tested for snow |
| DOT | Production code: the last four digits are week and year (2324 = week 23 of 2024) |
Different size from the one on the registration document?
The registration document lists the sizes approved for your vehicle; some cars allow more than one. Before fitting a different size, ask us to confirm: we tell you which ones are permitted and the load index and speed code you must not go below.
Frequently asked questions
What does 205/55 R16 91V mean?
Width 205 mm, profile 55%, radial construction, 16 inch rim, load index 91 (615 kg per tyre) and speed code V (240 km/h).
Where do I find my tyre size?
On the tyre sidewall and on the vehicle registration document. If you can't find it, send us a photo of the sidewall on WhatsApp.
How do I read the production date?
After the letters DOT, the last four digits give week and year: 2324 means week 23 of 2024.
What does M+S mean?
It is the Mud and Snow marking: winter tyres and many all-season tyres carry it.
Updated on October 5, 2026 by Pneumatici SuperStore, Via Enrico Cosenz 63/1, Milano.