Overview of Tire Quality Grading Standards

The Uniform Tire Quality Grading is a U.S. Government requirement. Their purpose is to provide drivers with consistent and reliable information regarding tire performance. Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires using three performance factors: tread wear 1, tire traction 2, and temperature resistance 3. Although not a Government of Canada requirement, all tires made for sale in North America have these grades branded on the sidewall.
The actual values for tires are vehiclespecific and may deviate from the values
in the illustration.
Where applicable, the tire grading information can be found on the tire sidewall between the tread shoulder and maximum tire width.
For example:

All passenger car tires must conform to the statutory safety requirements in addition to these grades.
See also:
Safety
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Tire pressure specifications
WARNING
Follow recommended tire inflation pressures.
Do not underinflate tires. Underinflated tires
wear excessively and/or unevenly, adversely
affect handling and fuel economy, and are
more ...
Safety
The 2012 M-Class was deemed a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety, meaning it received the top score of Good in front- and
side-impact crash tests, as well as for roof st ...
