2004 Nissan Xterra Owner's Manual - Page 249

This number indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire. When replacing the tires on the vehicle, always use a tire that has the same load rating as the factory installed tire. (6) Term of "tubeless" or "tube type" Indicates whether the tire requires an inner tube ("tube type") or not ("tubeless"). (7) The word "radial" The word radial is shown if the tire has radial structure. WDI0396 (8) Manufacturer or brand name Manufacturer or brand name is shown. Other Tire-related Terminology In addition to the many terms that are defined throughout this section, Intended Outboard Sidewall is (1) the sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or (2) the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle. (2) TIN (Tire Identification Number) for a new tire (example: DOT XX XX XXX XXXX) 1. DOT: Abbreviation for the Department Of Transportation. The symbol can be placed above, below or to the left or right of Tire Identification Number. 2. Two-digit code: Manufacturer's identification mark 3. Two-digit code: Tire size 4. Three-digit code: Tire type code (Optional) 5. Three-digit code: Date of Manufacture 6. Four numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example, the numbers 3103 means the 31st week of 2003. (3) Tire ply composition and material The number of layers or plies of rubber-coated fabric in the tire. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the materials in the tire, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others. (4) Maximum permissible inflation pressure This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should be put in the tire. Do not exceed the maximum permissible inflation pressure. (5) Maximum load rating Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-45