Three grades. Different jobs.
UTQG: treadwear, traction, and temperature
UTQG stands for Uniform Tire Quality Grading. Learn how to read treadwear, traction, and temperature grades without mistaking them for mileage guarantees.
Treadwear: a comparison, not a mileage promise
The first number in 600 A A is the treadwear grade. It compares wear in a controlled test against a reference tire graded 100. A higher number indicates a slower test wear rate, but 600 does not mean 60,000 miles. Actual wear depends on driving and maintenance. Manufacturers assign grades using the prescribed tests; do not use treadwear alone to rank tires across brands.
Traction: wet braking, not every kind of grip
The first letter grade in 600 A A is traction. From highest to lowest, the grades are AA, A, B, and C. They reflect straight-line braking on specified wet surfaces under controlled conditions. They do not rate dry handling, cornering, snow, ice, or resistance to hydroplaning. Use model-specific information to compare those qualities.
Temperature: resistance to heat buildup
The last letter in 600 A A is the temperature grade. A is highest, followed by B and C. It describes the tire’s ability to resist and release heat during a laboratory test. It is not an outdoor-temperature limit or a substitute for the speed rating. Even an A-rated tire needs the correct pressure and load.
Why some tires have no UTQG grade
Some categories, including light-truck tires, winter tires, and temporary spares, are exempt from UTQG grading. A blank field is not automatically a quality problem. For any tire, compare approved fitment, intended use, seasonal capability, and warranty terms alongside any available grades. A treadwear warranty is a separate agreement with eligibility and maintenance conditions.
Your quick reference
| Example | Grade | Read it as |
|---|---|---|
| 600 | Treadwear | Comparative wear-test result |
| A | Traction | Wet braking grade |
| A | Temperature | Heat-resistance grade |
Common questions
Does a treadwear grade of 600 mean 60,000 miles?
No. UTQG treadwear is a comparative test grade, not a mileage promise. Mileage warranties are separate and have their own terms.
Does traction grade A describe snow grip?
No. UTQG traction grades relate to controlled wet-pavement braking. Use the tire’s season, winter markings, and model information to understand its intended winter use.
Remember
A higher treadwear number is not a guaranteed number of miles. Keep warranty mileage separate.
Sources & further reading
- Cooper: understanding UTQG ↗ (opens in a new tab)
- Federal tire quality grading standard: scope and test requirements ↗ (opens in a new tab)
Use this guide to understand the terminology. Follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual, tire placard, and the tire manufacturer’s instructions for your exact application.