UTQG Explainer (Treadwear, Traction, Temperature)
Understand Uniform Tire Quality Grade ratings and what they mean for your tires.
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system, developed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), provides consumers with comparative information about a tire's performance in three key areas: Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature resistance.
- **Treadwear:** A comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. A tire graded 400 should theoretically last twice as long as one graded 200. However, actual mileage varies significantly. - **Traction:** Represents the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement. Grades are AA (highest), A, B, and C. It does not indicate dry braking or cornering traction. - **Temperature:** Indicates the tire's resistance to heat generation and its ability to dissipate heat. Grades are A (highest), B, and C. Excessive heat can lead to tire degradation and failure.
These ratings are found on the sidewall of most passenger car tires (except winter tires, temporary spares, etc.). This tool helps you understand what each of these ratings means.
- Locate the UTQG ratings on your tire's sidewall (e.g., 'TREADWEAR 400 TRACTION A TEMPERATURE B').
- Enter the Treadwear rating number (e.g., 400) into the calculator.
- Select the Traction grade (AA, A, B, or C) from the dropdown.
- Select the Temperature grade (A, B, or C) from the dropdown.
- Click 'Explain Ratings' or the explanation will update dynamically as you select values.
- The results will provide a detailed breakdown of what each entered rating signifies.
UTQG ratings are assigned by tire manufacturers based on standardized tests. Treadwear is a comparative rating, not a mileage guarantee. Traction and Temperature are specific performance grades under test conditions. These ratings do not apply to winter/snow tires, temporary spares, or some specialized tires.
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