You’ll also find the recommended tire size, as well as the speed and load ratings for your vehicle, on a placard in the driver’s doorjamb, in the glove compartment, or on the fuel-filler door.

While the colored lines found on new tires are optional, follow along to see what they mean, and why they are there.

Q: We live in the Midwest, where potholes and bumpy roads are common. Which tire/wheel combination gives the smoothest ride? Which is less prone to damage? Here are the combinations available on the ...