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h speed rating

by Elisa Swift Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

An H speed rating indicates the tire is approved for speeds up to 130 mph (210 km/h) under optimal conditions. An H speed rating is at the low end, or at the start of the performance tire speed ratings. H speed rated tires are ideal for sport and luxury coupes and sedans, but not typically considered full-fledged performance vehicles.

130 mph 210 km/h

Full Answer

What is the difference between 95T and 95h tires?

Apr 01, 2021 · speed rating h If you recall from earlier, the “H” speed rating doesn’t appear after “G” but between “U” and “V.” It represents a maximum speed of 130 mph (210 kph) and is commonly found on sports sedans and coupes.

What is the tire speed rating H?

Should I get h or V rated tires?

What is the best tire speed rating?

Jan 18, 2022 · As mentioned, the H speed rating means the tires can travel up to 130mph. Meanwhile, the V speed rating can travel up to 149mph. So, the V speed rating is better right? But the battle of speed rating V vs H is not quite that simple, there’s a bit more to it.

How fast is an H speed rating?

130 mphSPEED RATING H If you recall from earlier, the “H” speed rating doesn't appear after “G” but between “U” and “V.” It represents a maximum speed of 130 mph (210 kph) and is commonly found on sports sedans and coupes.Apr 1, 2021

Is speed rating H or V better?

Identification. H-rated tires are rated for a maximum speed of 130 mph. The V rating is the next rating faster, and V-rated tires are good to 149 mph. Both H- and V-rated tires are considered to be performance-touring tires.

What does the H mean on tires?

speed rating“H” represents the speed rating, which is how fast the tires can go based on their load capacity. This rating ranges from A – Z. “H” indicates a speed rating of up to 130 mph.

Do H or V-rated tires last longer?

But expect a little less ride comfort, lower performance in cold conditions and shorter tread life. Consumer Reports found that some H- and V-rated tires didn't last as long as those rated for lower speeds, wearing out closer to 50,000 miles than 60,000 miles.

Should I get H or T-rated tires?

H-Rated Tires: This is a perfect, average tire for most sedans and commuter vehicles. It might not seem to fit in our chart, but the tire speed rating “H” is rated for up to 130 mph. T-Rated Tires: This tire is often recommended for family sedans and vans. It's rated for up to 118 mph.Sep 25, 2020

Which is better H or T-rated tires?

The “T” or “H” on tires pertain to their speed ratings. A T-rated tire can withstand top speeds of up to 118 mph (190 km/h), while an H-rated tire can support up to 130 mph (210 km/h). It is important to note these markings and stay within those speed limits.

What is load range H?

From a G to an H Truck tires typically come in two load ratings: G and H. Load range G is a 14-ply configuration, while load range H tires have 16 plies. The heavier-rated tire will usually add between 700 pounds and 1,000 pounds more load-bearing capacity per tire (see "How Much is Too Much," next page).Aug 26, 2009

What does 91S mean on a tire?

The 91S represents the tire's Service Description. A Service Description identifies the tire's Load Index (91) and Speed Rating (S).

Are Kevlar tires bulletproof?

The new Wrangler features a more aggressive asymmetrical tread pattern, completely redesigned rubber compound, and a Kevlar-reinforced sidewall that is 35 percent more puncture-resistant. Now, we know what you are thinking, but these tires aren't bulletproof--so we're told.Jul 1, 2009

Can I mix H and V rated tires?

Just remember, never mix and match tires with different speed ratings on your vehicle. This will cause major problems with the handling of your vehicle. If tires of different speed ratings are mounted on a vehicle, the lower speed-rated tires should be placed on the front axle, regardless of which axle is driven.Apr 26, 2013

Do higher speed rated tires wear faster?

A tire with a higher speed rating may corner and handle better than one with a lower rating, but it's likely to wear out faster.Jun 21, 2019

What speed rating do I need?

Tire Speed Rating ChartSpeed SymbolMaximum SpeedVehicle TypeT118 mphFamily Sedans & VansU124 mphH130 mphSport Sedans & CoupesV149 mphSport Sedans, Coupes & Sports Cars10 more rows

HOW TO FIND YOUR TIRE SPEED RATING

If you’re wondering what tire speed rating your vehicle manufacturer recommends, simply look in the manual. You might also find it in the driver’s side door jamb, the gas tank hatch, or inside the glove box door – anywhere that lists the right tire code for your vehicle.

DETERMINING TIRE SPEED RATING

Speed ratings are the product of laboratory testing – with simulated speeds and loads. To receive any kind of rating, a tire must demonstrate that it’s capable of sustaining a particular speed. Industry standards govern the process of reaching and maintaining a given speed during a test.

TIRE SPEED RATING SYSTEM QUIRKS AND ANOMALIES

Today’s speed rating system uses letters A through Z. Each letter corresponds to a specific speed. In general, that speed goes up as the rating advances alphabetically. For example, a tire rated “L” is good for a lower maximum sustained speed than one rated “N.”

COMMON TIRE SPEED RATINGS CHART

The following speed ratings are those you’re most likely to encounter for ordinary vehicles. They begin with a maximum speed of 118 mph (190 kph) and increase from there.

What is a T rating?

A T rating indicates the tire is approved for speeds up to 118 mph (190 km/h) under optimal conditions. T ratings are most associated with standard touring tires, and everyday passenger vehicles like family sedans and minivans.

What does a Z rating mean?

A Z rating indicates the tire has been approved for speeds of 149+ mph (240+ km/h) under optimal conditions. This rating is associated with maximum tire performance and is a match for performance coupes and sedans, sports cars, and supercars. While speed rating is typically adjacent to the load index, and outside of (after) the tire size expression, the Z speed rating can be found within the structure of the tire size:

How fast can a Q tire go?

Q tires are approved for speeds up to 99 mph (160 km/h) under optimal conditions. Tires toward the low end of the speed rating range often prioritize a particular function or unique performance over maximum speed rating. Some studdable and studless winter tires, for example, are Q speed rated.

What is the speed restriction on a Z tire?

To understand the speed restriction of a Z speed rated tire, refer to the additional speed rating adjacent to the load index. In the case of a Z tire, the speed rating will either be W, Y, or (Y).

What is the tire number on an Audi A3?

In the doorjamb image above (belonging to an Audi A3), the car’s tire information is: 225/45R17 94H. In this example, 94H is the service description, with the 94 indicating load index, and the H indicating speed rating.

What Is Tire Speed Rating?

A tire’s speed rating indicates the optimal speed that the tire can safely maintain over time. In short, it’s the fastest speed a tire can handle before it no longer performs as designed. The higher the speed rating, the better control and handling you’ll have at higher speeds.

Why Were Tire Speed Ratings Developed?

The speed rating system used today was developed in Europe in response to the need to control the safe performance of tires at standardized speeds. When the rating system was originally developed, the "Unlimited V" category of over 210 km/h (130 mph) was the top speed rating possible.

Where Can I Find My Tire Speed Rating?

You can find your tire speed rating in a number of places, typically in the owner’s manual, driver’s side doorjamb, glove box door, and gas tank hatch. Recent standardization has changed so all ratings except "Unlimited ZR" incorporate the speed symbol and load index as part of every tire’s service description on the tire’s sidewall.

ZR Designation

Tires having a maximum speed capability over 149 MPH may have “ZR” in the size designation. Tires with a maximum speed capability over 186 MPH are required to include “ZR” in the designation. Below are examples of tire sizes with a “ZR” speed rating.

Tire Speed Rating Chart

For tires with a maximum speed capability higher than 240 km/h (149 mph), a "ZR" may appear in the size designation. Tires with a maximum speed capability higher than 300 km/h (186 mph), require a "ZR" in the size designation. Consult the tire manufacturer for maximum speed when there is no service description.

Turn to Tires Plus for Help

Need help understanding the speed rating on tires? Our technicians have got you covered. Bring your vehicle by your local Tires Plus and we’ll help you understand your tire numbers, tire size, and more!

What does the tire speed rating mean?

Every car tire comes with a specific speed and load capacities. The tire speed rating is the maximum speed that a tire can reach under recommended loads for a sustained amount of time under ideal operating conditions. Higher speed ratings provide better handling and control characteristics at higher speeds.

Why Were Speed Ratings Developed?

Tire manufacturers adopt different manufacturing processes and standards. Speed ratings were introduced as a means to control and ensure the safe performance of diverse tire brands at standardized operating speeds. Initial speed ratings designated unlimited V (over 130 mph) as the highest tire speed rating.

Places to Look for Tire Speed Rating

The speed rating is usually simple to identify as it appears as the last item in the tire’s size code. Car manufacturers recommend specific speed ratings that are included in the car manual.

What Are Z Rated Tires?

Before explaining the ZR designation, first, let’s look at the other ratings. The speed rating ranges from 75 mph and goes over 186 mph. Each increase is several miles per hour higher than the previous one and gets a letter that helps you identify the rating quickly.

Tire Speed Rating Chart

A speed rating chart is used to indicate the standard maximum speed capacities for different types and sizes of tires under optimal operating conditions. Speed ratings are designated using alphabetic symbols, A to Z, with the exclusion of I, O, and U.

FAQ

Yes. Higher tire ratings provide better car handling and control at higher speeds. Highly rated tires have a better grip on the road, characterized by improved braking characteristics. Highly rated tires, however, wear and tear faster than low rated ones.

How to determine tire speed rating?

How are Speed Ratings Determined? 1 For the ECE test, the tire is properly inflated and mounted on a wheel attached to a testing machine in a room that’s heated to 77 degrees F. 2 The tire is pressed against a metal drum with enough pressure to simulate a realistic load. 3 Starting at a speed 40 km/h lower than the proposed rating level, the tire is spun for 10-minute increments at higher and higher speeds, until it reaches the target speed. 4 The tire spins for 10 minutes at the target speed. 5 It’s then removed from the machine and inspected for any failures, like separation of tread components. If it’s intact, it passes the speed rating. 6 Sometimes an SUS (step-up speed) test will be added after the tire performs at the target speed rating. Speed is increased until the tire fails. 7 If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.

What is a SUS test?

Sometimes an SUS (step-up speed) test will be added after the tire performs at the target speed rating. Speed is increased until the tire fails. If the tire is being tested at the SAE standard, it’s required to run for an hour at target speed in a room heated to 100 degrees.

Can you mix and match tires?

If you’re replacing tires and think you may want a lower- or higher-speed-rated tire, it’s best not to mix and match. When mounting differently rated tires, techs prefer to put the lower-speed-rated ones on the front to prevent oversteering.

What is speed rating?

SPEED RATINGS REFER TO MORE THAN JUST SPEED. Contrary to the name, speed ratings aren’t just about speed. They’re also about ride comfort, wear and cornering ability. Typically, the higher the speed rating, the better the grip and stopping power, but the lower the tread life. You can always increase the speed rating of the tires on your vehicle ...

What does 99 mean on a tire?

99 = 1,709 pounds. A tire with a higher load index than that of the Original Equipment tire indicates an increase in load capacity . A tire with a load index equal to that of the Original Equipment tire indicates an equivalent load capacity. A tire with a lower load index than the Original Equipment tire indicates the tire does not equal ...

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