Cold tire inflation pressure 
The tire pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer for a tire of a specified size that has not 
been driven for more than a couple of miles (kilometers) at low speeds in the 3 hour period before the 
tire pressure is measured or adjusted. 
Curb weight 
The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, 
and coolant, air conditioner, and additional weight of optional equipment. 
Extra load tire 
A tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures than the corresponding 
standard tire. 
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) 
The load-carrying capacity of a single axle system, measured where the tire contacts the ground. 
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) 
The maximum loaded weight of the vehicle. 
Groove 
The space between 2 adjacent tread ribs. 
Load rating (code) 
The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure. You may not find this 
information on all tires because it is not required by law. 
Maximum load rating 
The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. 
Maximum loaded vehicle weight 
The total of: 
 x Curb weight. 
 x Accessory weight. 
 x Vehicle capacity weight. 
 x Production options weight. 
Maximum (permissible) inflation pressure 
The maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated. Also called “maximum inflation 
pressure.” 
Normal occupant weight 
Means 150 lbs (68 kilograms) times the number of occupants seated in the vehicle up to the total 
seating capacity of your vehicle. 
Occupant distribution 
The placement of passengers in a vehicle. 
Outer diameter 
The diameter of a new, properly inflated tire. 
Overall width 
Total width measured at the exterior sidewalls of an inflated tire, including the additional width of 
labeling, decorations, or protective bands or ribs.