Standard all-seasons are usually rated T (118 mph) and H (130 mph). Climbing up the scale are V (149 mph), ZR (149-plus mph), W (168 mph), and Y (186 mph) ratings. Winter tires may carry the letter R (106 mph) or higher. Treadwear grade: A government-required number that indicates a tire’s expected wear.
- The speed rating tells you the speed the tire can safely maintain over time. ...
- M — Up to 81 mph.
- N — Up to 87 mph.
- P — Up to 93 mph.
- Q — Up to 99 mph.
- R — Up to 106 mph.
- S — Up to 112 mph.
- T — Up to 118 mph.
What are the best tires for winter?
Top 10 Best Tires For Winter Weather Reviews:
- Cooper Discoverer True North Winter 235/55R19XL 105H Tire
- Firestone Winterforce 2 UV Studdable Winter/Snow Tire P225/75R16 104 S
- SUMITOMO Ice Edge Studable-Winter Radial Tire – 215/65R16 98T
- Wells Lamont Cold Weather Latex Grip Versatile Winter Work Gloves - Cut & Tear Resistant - 2-Pair Pack. ...
What is the best winter truck tire?
What Are the Best Snow, Winter, and All-Terrain Truck Tires for Winter?
- Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2. Dedicated studless winter tire engineered specifically for pickups and SUVs. ...
- Goodyear Ultra Grip WRT LT. Represented the older technology of the studded winter pickup tire segment. ...
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2. ...
- Goodyear Wrangler Fortitude HT. ...
- Firestone Destination M/T. ...
How are winter tires different from regular tires?
- The Weather-Master WSC is a studdable winter tire. ...
- While the all-terrain tire features some siping, sipes are quite literally everywhere on the Weather-Master WSC, even down the central rib of the tire. ...
- Cooper's patented "Snow Groove" directional design increases traction by encouraging snow-on-snow grip. ...
Should I get h or V rated tires?
Which tire to choose? First piece of advice, depending on your budget: try to get the best possible tire ... For example, don't try to substitute V-speed rated tires (which are always more ...
What is the rating of snow tires?
How fast does a low rated tire go?
Why do tires have heat build up?
What is a speed rating?
How fast does a tire rotate?
What is the owner's manual for tires?
Do you see the speed rating on tires?
See more
What is a good speed rating for winter tires?
For example, a Q-rated tire corresponds with a maximum speed of 160 km/h. Winter tires for touring cars and SUVs are seldom rated higher than a T (190 km/h)....Speed codeMaximum sustained speedV240 km/hW270 km/hY300 km/hZRCapability beyond 300 km/h6 more rows
Does speed rating matter on winter tires?
The only time it's OK to downgrade your tire speed rating is with your winter tires, where a 'Q' rating is acceptable because you're going to be driving slower and in cooler temperatures.
Should I get H or V rated tires?
If you feel the need to drive at or above 130 mph then you should get a “V” speed rated set of tires. If you don't plan on driving that fast, then an “H” speed rated set is the better option.
Which is better T or H speed rating?
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).
What does T & H mean on tires?
Speed rating. This letter denotes the maximum sustainable speed and is found directly after the load index. For S-speed-rated tires, it's 112 mph; for T, 118 mph. Speed ratings for other tires include Q, 99 mph; H, 130 mph; and V , 149 mph.
What happens if you exceed tire speed rating?
What happens if you exceed your tire's speed rating? If you drive faster than the rated speed for your tires you are risking damage to the tires that could cause safety and performance problems down the road.
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.
Can I use W rated tires instead of V?
V means that vehicles can safely use the tire with a top speed higher than 149mph. The rating W shows that the tire is safe to use for a vehicle with a top speed of 168mph.
What are Z rated tires?
While a Z-speed rating still often appears in the tire size of some tires, such as 225/50ZR16 91W, the Z in the size signifies a maximum speed capability in excess of 149 mph; the W in the service description indicates the tire's specific 168 mph maximum speed.
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).
What speed rating is H?
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.
Can I put a higher speed rated tire on my car?
SPEED RATINGS REFER TO MORE THAN JUST SPEED You can always increase the speed rating of the tires on your vehicle for improved performance, but can never decrease it without reducing the vehicle top speed to that of the lower speed rating selected.
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 b...
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....
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 ha...
Tyre Speed Rating | Chart and Rating Letters | The AA
Tyre load index chart. The 2 numbers on a tyre sidewall that come before the tyre speed rating are the load index. This shows you the maximum weight of the vehicle (and any load it’s carrying) for that tyre.
What is Tire Speed Rating & Tire Speed Rating Chart | Tires Plus
Tire speed rating is the top speed a tire can safely keep over time. View our tire speed rating chart and visit your local Tires Plus to learn more today!
How To Read Tire Speed Rating - My Vehicle Tires
DOES TIRE SPEED RATING MATTER AND HOW DOES IT AFFECT MY CAR. The speed rating is as important as your choice of tires. The speed rating tells you the speed the tire can safely maintain over time.
What is the rating of snow tires?
Winter/snow tires are of the “Q” rating and higher. Performance winter tires are of the “H” rating and higher. Truck winter tires are usually of the “S” rating. Temporary spare tires are usually of the “M” rating.
How fast does a low rated tire go?
Take two tires with the speed ratings S and V and ride them at 100 km/h. As the V tire comes to a full stop, the S tire still goes at about 25 km/h.
Why do tires have heat build up?
Heat build-up. Tires with lower ratings flex harder under pressure, which causes heat build-up . It may cause a wide range of issues, from premature aging to tire failure and immediate blowouts. Tires with higher ratings have special compounds and reinforcements that help avoid excess heat build-up.
What is a speed rating?
A speed rating is a letter or a combination of a letter and a number which implies to what extent the tire successfully dissipates heat. Exceeding that speed will make the tire performance differ from the initial specifications.
How fast does a tire rotate?
It then rotates the tested tire, increasing speeds by 6.2 mph every 10 minutes. As the rotation reaches the estimated maximum speed for the tire, the specialist checks whether the tire keeps its integrity.
What is the owner's manual for tires?
The owner’s manual has all the information you need about the recommended tires for your vehicle. Information placards on the door jamb, glove box door, and gas tank hatch are for the cases when you need a quick recommendation while on the go.
Do you see the speed rating on tires?
As for the tire codes, there you will see a speed rating for the particular tire. There will be no vehicle-related recommendations, so it would be wise to consult both the vehicle manufacturer’s suggestions and the markings on the tires.
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!
Your Guide to Tire Speed Rating
When it comes to selecting new tires for your car, truck, or SUV, the tires' speed rating is just one of many factors you should consider. Because there are so many different ratings and types of tires available, we've created this guide to help you decide which tires are right for your vehicle.
Types of Tire Speed Ratings
There are several types of tires on the market, each with different speed ratings. What type of tire you choose depends on your vehicle and your specific needs.
How to Choose Speed-Rated Tires
When choosing the right tires for your vehicle, there are several factors to consider. These include:
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 does speed rating mean on tires?
The speed rating tells you the maximum speed capability of the tire when properly inflated. Choosing a tire with an equal or greater speed rating than the original equipment tire is generally recommended.
Can you fit different speed tires?
It is not recommended to fit tires with different speed ratings. If tires with different speed ratings are installed on a vehicle, they should be installed with like pairs on the same axle. The speed capability of the vehicle will become limited to that of the lowest speed rated tires. Obey all speed limits.
What is the speed rating of a tire?
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. H speed ratings are common in the grand touring all-season tire category.
What does a Y rating mean on a tire?
Y rated tires have been tested at speeds up to, and in excess of, 186 mph (300 km/h) under optimal conditions. If Y speed rating is indicated without parentheses (as normal), this means the tire is rated up to 186 mph. If the Y speed rating is indicated inside of parentheses, this means that particular tire size and specification has been tested at speeds in excess of 186 mph. A Y speed rating denotes maximum tire performance.
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.
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 an H speed rating?
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. H speed ratings are common in the grand touring all-season tire category. W.
What does a W mean on a car?
A W means the tire is approved for speeds up to 168 mph (270 km/h) under optimal conditions. W speed rated tires land firmly at the performance end of the speed rating spectrum. Ws are suitable for performance coupes and sedans, and even street driven exotic sports cars.
What is tire speed rating?
Like the load index rating, a tire speed rating is another shorthand way to reference how fast a tire can go in ideal conditions. But rather than numbers, it uses letters in (mostly) alphabetical order. (More on that later.)
Where to find load rating on car tires?
If your car doesn’t have its OE tires, you can find the manufacturer’s recommended load rating in the owner’s manual or the placard on the driver’s side doorjamb. Most tire installers will not sell or install a lower load-rated tire than the OE recommendation due to liability concerns. This is because if you install tires with a lower load index ...
Why are tires with a lower load index rating more likely to overload?
Overloaded tires are more prone to damage, blowouts and premature wear. Read: How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Car.
What is load index number?
The load index number is a shorthand way to describe the total load capacity of the tire. To find out how much weight a tire can carry, you’ll need a tire load index chart, like the one below.
Can tires go up to a certain speed?
Note: Just because your tires can go up to a certain speed does not mean that your vehicle can nor that it is safe to do so. Please follow all posted speed limits. As mentioned earlier, speed ratings are in mostly alphabetical order, but there are a few anomalies.
Is the maximum load capacity of tires normal?
Note: The maximum load capacity of the tires may not be their normal capacity. This is because load index ratings are based on the maximum fill pressure of the tire, not the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure level, which is lower. When replacing your tires, always choose tires with the same or higher load index rating than ...
What is the rating of snow tires?
Winter/snow tires are of the “Q” rating and higher. Performance winter tires are of the “H” rating and higher. Truck winter tires are usually of the “S” rating. Temporary spare tires are usually of the “M” rating.
How fast does a low rated tire go?
Take two tires with the speed ratings S and V and ride them at 100 km/h. As the V tire comes to a full stop, the S tire still goes at about 25 km/h.
Why do tires have heat build up?
Heat build-up. Tires with lower ratings flex harder under pressure, which causes heat build-up . It may cause a wide range of issues, from premature aging to tire failure and immediate blowouts. Tires with higher ratings have special compounds and reinforcements that help avoid excess heat build-up.
What is a speed rating?
A speed rating is a letter or a combination of a letter and a number which implies to what extent the tire successfully dissipates heat. Exceeding that speed will make the tire performance differ from the initial specifications.
How fast does a tire rotate?
It then rotates the tested tire, increasing speeds by 6.2 mph every 10 minutes. As the rotation reaches the estimated maximum speed for the tire, the specialist checks whether the tire keeps its integrity.
What is the owner's manual for tires?
The owner’s manual has all the information you need about the recommended tires for your vehicle. Information placards on the door jamb, glove box door, and gas tank hatch are for the cases when you need a quick recommendation while on the go.
Do you see the speed rating on tires?
As for the tire codes, there you will see a speed rating for the particular tire. There will be no vehicle-related recommendations, so it would be wise to consult both the vehicle manufacturer’s suggestions and the markings on the tires.