What Are P-Metric Tires?
P-metric tires, where “P” stands for “passenger,” are designed for passenger vehicles that are not regularly engaged in heavy-duty workloads or challenging off-road terrains. These include sedans, crossovers, some SUVs, and light-duty trucks.
P-Metric tires typically feature a flexible sidewall. They provide a smoother and more comfortable ride, which is ideal for everyday commuting or highway cruising. While capable of handling light to moderate loads, P-metric tires might not be the best choice for vehicles frequently carrying heavy cargo or towing trailers.
Difference Between P-Metric and LT Tires
The main differences between P-metric and LT (Light Truck) tires lie in their design, durability, load handling, and ride feel:
- Design and Durability: LT tires are suitable for heavy-duty light trucks and vehicles. They have reinforced sidewalls and more rigid materials. This makes them more capable of handling rough terrains, resisting punctures, and carrying heavier loads compared to P-metric tires.
- Vehicle Suitability: LT tires are ideal for pickup trucks, larger SUVs, and heavy-duty trucks, especially those requiring enhanced durability and load-bearing capacity. In contrast, P-metric tires are suitable for passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks not subjected to heavy loads or rough terrains.
- Ride Feel and Performance: LT tires generally offer a stiffer ride due to their robust construction, which is necessary for handling heavier weights and tougher terrains. P-metric tires, with their flexible sidewalls, offer a smoother ride ideal for regular road conditions.
- Cost and Construction: LT tires are typically more expensive than P-metric tires due to their extra material in the sidewall and under the tread, providing better protection and the ability to carry heavier loads. They often have extra steel belts, a deeper tread, and thicker sidewall rubber​​.
- Treadwear and Mileage: Both LT and P-metric tires typically have similar treadwear or tire mileage. Although LT tires are more suitable for use on gravel roads due to their specially formulated tread rubber that resists chipping from stones.
Euro-Metric vs P-Metric Tires
Euro-metric and P-metric tires differ slightly in their load capacity calculations and inflation pressure tables. The key difference is that Euro-metric tires are developed based on the load and dimensional requirements of vehicles in Europe.
On the other hand, P-metric tires are built for vehicles in America. Vehicles meant to carry passengers, including cars, station wagons, SUVs, and light-duty pickup trucks, primarily use them. When Euro-metric and P-metric tires have the same numeric size, performance category, and speed rating, manufacturers consider them equivalent and interchangeable if used in axle pairs or sets of four.
Is It OK to Use P-Metric Tires On Vehicles Rated for LT Tires?
No. It’s generally advisable to replace LT tires with LT tires, especially if the vehicle originally came factory-rated for them. This is because LT tires have a higher load capacity rating at maximum air pressure compared to P-metric tires. While it’s acceptable to switch from P-metric to LT, the reverse is not recommended.