Never choose a tire with a lower load-carrying capacity than the original equipment tire size. The 300 is treadwear, which represents the tire s comparative wear when measured against the government-mandated tire which is rated at 100. So this tire wore three times longer than the control tire. Traction indicates the level of grip the tire possesses. Temperature rating deals with the tire s ability to disperse built-up heat.
Heat causes rubber to deteriorate over time, so dispersing heat increases tire life.
Each tire manufacturer determines UTQG ratings for their products. Realize that UTQGs are more accurate when comparing tires within the same line versus tires from two different makers. The speed-rating system in use today was developed in Europe to categorize tires developed for specific vehicle speed requirements. Although a tire may be speed rated, we do not endorse the operation of any vehicle in an unsafe or unlawful manner. Furthermore, tire speed ratings do not imply that a vehicle can be safely driven at the maximum speed for which the tire is rated, particularly under adverse road and weather conditions or if the vehicle has unusual characteristics.