19/04/2019
What is a UTQG treadwear rating?
The UTQG (Uniform Tyre Quality Grade) treadwear rating, also known as a treadwear grade, is a number stamped on the tyre sidewall that relates to expected tyre life.
In basic terms, and in the spirit of the concept, the higher the UTQG treadwear rating, the greater the tire life. A tyre with a "600" treadwear rating is forecasted to last twice as long as a tyre with a "300" rating, and should accumulate three times the mileage of a "200" rated tyre.
To understand how treadwear ratings vary and for basic real world reference points, consider that standard touring all-season tyres engineered for high mileage can have treadwear ratings in the "700-800" range. In contrast, motorsport tyres for racing, which are focused on maximum grip (tyre life is a distant secondary concern) might have a treadwear rating in the "100" range, or even less.
How can you use UTQG treadwear ratings when researching and buying tyres?
First you have to understand the limitations of the treadwear ratings information. While the UTQG treadwear rating is mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration*, and the testing process is supposed to be the same for all manufacturers, the NHTSA does not test tyres and assign the ratings. Rather, it's the tyre manufacturers' duty to conduct (or commission) the testing.
This means that UTQG treadwear ratings are not established by an objective testing organization, or according to a universal ratings scale. A "400" treadwear rating from Tyre Manufacturer A doesn't necessarily equal a "400" treadwear rating from Tyre Manufacturer B; the mileage lifespan of the two tyres under equal driving conditions could be quite different.
If you're trying to choose between tyres of the same type from the same manufacturer, the treadwear rating could be a deciding factor.
Treadwear ratings are therefore most informative and helpful when comparing tyres from the same manufacturer. If you're trying to choose between tyres of the same type from the same manufacturer, the treadwear rating could be a deciding factor. Tyre manufacturers could be accused of inflating their treadwear ratings to appear superior to the competition, or even being conservative on the ratings in certain circumstances. However, within their own product range, the ratings should correspond to actual testing results.
When comparing treadwear grades of tyres from two or more manufacturers, treadwear ratings are less instructive. However, we wouldn’t say that it’s pointless to consider the ratings from different manufacturers.
There is often a correlation between treadwear rating and actual tyre life. Across the range of tyre categories, it's common for tyres with high UTQG ratings to be favorably reviewed by users when it comes to treadlife. A tyre with a "600" treadwear rating might not last exactly 3 times as long as a tyre with a "200" treadwear rating, but it's a safe assumption that the "600" rated tyre will be longer-lasting.
If you're shopping for a high-mileage set of tyres, a low treadwear rating is a red flag and an indication that the tyre might fall short of your mileage expectations.
The treadwear rating can therefore be used as one data point to help guide your tyre purchase decision. If you're shopping for a high-mileage set of tyres, a low treadwear rating is a red flag and an indication that the tyre might fall short of your mileage expectations.
Especially when considered in combination with the tyre treadlife warranty, the UTQG treadwear rating provides a preview of expected tyre life. It's definitely not a perfect ratings scale or system, but if long tyre life is a priority for you, consider the treadwear rating and the treadlife warranty.
Also check out our tyres rotation and alignment articles for tips on how to achieve the maximum treadlife from your tyres.
*A UTQG rating is not required for certain types of tyres, e.g. winter tyres, mud-terrain tyres with deep tread, and temporary spare tyres
