Tire Terminology and DefinitionsAir Pressure : The amount of air inside the tirepressing outward on each square inch of the tire.Air pressure is expressed in pounds per squareinch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa).Accessory Weight : This means the combinedweight of optional accessories. Some examples ofoptional accessories are, automatic transmission,power steering, power brakes, power windows,power seats, and air conditioning.Aspect Ratio : The relationship of a tire's height toits width.Belt : A rubber coated layer of cords that islocated between the plies and the tread.Cords may be made from steel or otherreinforcing materials.Bead : The tire bead contains steel wires wrappedby steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.Bias Ply Tire : A pneumatic tire in which the pliesare laid at alternate angles less than 90 degreesto the centerline of the tread.Cold Tire Pressure : The amount of air pressurein a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi)or kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heatfrom driving. See Inflation - Tire Pressure onpage 6‑59.Curb Weight : The weight of a motor vehicle withstandard and optional equipment including themaximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, butwithout passengers and cargo.DOT Markings : A code molded into the sidewallof a tire signifying that the tire is in compliancewith the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)motor vehicle safety standards. The DOT codeincludes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), analphanumeric designator which can also identifythe tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, anddate of production.GVWR : Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.See Loading the Vehicle on page 5‑18.GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for thefront axle. See Loading the Vehicle on page 5‑18.GAWR RR : Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rearaxle. See Loading the Vehicle on page 5‑18.6-56