UTQG, or Uniform Tire Quality Grading, is a standard created by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) that allows consumers to compare tires based on treadwear, traction, and temperature
. The UTQG rating is displayed on the sidewall of the tire and consists of three categories
:
- Treadwear : This is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. The higher the rating, the better the treadwear. However, it is essential to note that treadwear grades do not directly indicate the projected tire mileage, as the actual performance of tires depends on factors such as service practices, road characteristics, and climate
- Traction : This category shows how well a tire can stop in wet conditions. The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. They represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions
- Temperature : This aspect indicates how well a tire can resist heat. The temperature rating is typically represented by a letter grade
To read a UTQG rating, you can find it on your tire's sidewall and compare the treadwear, traction, and temperature grades of different tires to make informed decisions when purchasing
. However, it is crucial to consider other factors, such as the manufacturer's treadwear warranty in miles, which is usually more intuitive and serves as a better barometer for most consumers
