What do 98V and 98H on tires mean?
3 Answers
The meanings of 98V and 98H on tires are as follows: 1. The 98 in 98V represents the load index of the tire; V indicates the speed rating, meaning the maximum speed the tire can withstand is 240 km/h. 2. The 98 in 98H also represents the load index of the tire, and H indicates the maximum speed the tire can withstand is 210 km/h. Below is more information about car tires: 1. Tires are circular elastic rubber products installed on various vehicles or machinery to roll on the ground. Mounted on metal rims, they support the vehicle body, cushion external impacts, and ensure contact with the road surface to maintain driving performance. 2. The speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can carry a specified load under specified conditions. Different tires have speed ratings marked with English letters on their sidewalls, such as Q for 160 km/h, R for 170 km/h, S for 180 km/h, and so on.
Last year when I changed tires, I researched these markings. The numbers 98V and 98H on the tire represent the load capacity, with 98 corresponding to a maximum load of 750 kg per tire, while the letters V and H indicate the speed rating. H-rated tires are suitable for daily driving up to 210 km/h, whereas V-rated tires can handle speeds up to 240 km/h. The key is matching the tire to the vehicle type. For my family SUV, I simply chose 98H tires since I rarely exceed 200 km/h, but sports or performance cars must use V-rated tires. Once, a friend mistakenly installed H-rated tires on a sedan, and the steering wheel shook violently at high speeds—only after inspection did they realize the speed rating was insufficient. When selecting tires, don’t just focus on tread patterns and size; these small markings on the sidewall are crucial for safety performance.
The alphanumeric combination on the tire sidewall reminds me of my experience at the tuning shop. The '98' in 98V indicates the tire can withstand a load of 750 kg, while 'V' represents a maximum permitted speed of 240 km/h. The 'H' in 98H corresponds to a speed limit of 210 km/h. These ratings are linked to the car's power. For example, my 1.8T car originally came with 98H tires, which were sufficient, but after an ECU remap, the technician insisted I upgrade to 98V tires. Once, while helping a neighbor check his tires, I realized he didn't understand these parameters and ended up buying lower-rated tires, which developed bulges within just a month. Now, when selecting tires, I always make a point to remind others: the load index affects stability, and the speed rating impacts high-speed grip.
