If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t spend much time thinking about your tires… until it’s time to replace them!
But the right tires can improve your vehicle’s performance and safety.
A tire’s speed rating tells you how fast that tire can safely travel at its maximum rated load capacity.
This guide will help you learn how to choose the right tire speed rating for your car. You will also learn how tire speed ratings affect traction, handling, braking, and wet weather driving as well as how they are calculated.
What Is The Speed Rating On Your Tire?
While you’re probably familiar with these letters, it’s important to know what they stand for. Each letter indicates a different speed category on a tire. It’s highly recommended that your tires are capable of reaching at least 80% of their rating. For example, if your car has tires with a V speed rating, they should be able to reach at least 149 mph (160 km/h). If you drive faster than that, you may want to consider buying new tires so you don’t risk skidding or sliding off the road—which can lead to accidents and even death.
Tire Speed Rating Chart
The tire speed rating refers to how fast you can drive with your tires and still have them meet certain safety standards. Here is the chart.
What Tire Speed Rating Is The Best For You?
A tire’s speed rating is a recommendation of how fast it can safely travel. The higher, or faster, you go, however, the more likely your car is to have an accident. If you must drive on highways with speed limits higher than 55 mph, you should seriously consider purchasing tires that are rated at or above those speeds. You can check both your tire and vehicle owner’s manuals to find out which type of tires they recommend before purchasing new ones.
How Does Tire Speed Rating Affect Your Driving Style?
Tires with higher speed ratings may offer handling benefits, but there are tradeoffs. As they usually have softer rubber compounds and stiffer construction, they may offer better cornering, stopping power and steering response. However, cars can have a less comfortable ride, are more susceptible to temperature-related damage, and their tread life can be shorter.