What do the letters on tires represent in terms of speed?

[Barrett]

Tire markings T, U, H, V, and Y represent speeds of 190 km/h, 200 km/h, 210 km/h, 240 km/h, and 270 km/h respectively; ZR indicates speeds exceeding 240 km/h. Below are detailed introductions about tires: 1. Tires are primarily composed of high-molecular composite materials, and elevated temperatures accelerate rubber aging; 2. High-speed driving increases the overall temperature of the tire, leading to accelerated tread wear; 3. High-speed driving increases the overall temperature of the tire, leading to accelerated tread wear; 4. Tires have a designed critical speed. When driving at high speeds reaches this threshold, the tire will exhibit a 'standing wave' phenomenon. Continued use under these conditions poses a risk of tire blowout.

[VonCali]

I change tires frequently, and the speed rating letters are crucial. Common ones like H stand for 210 km/h, V for 240, W for 270, and Y can go up to 300. Last time I replaced tires, I checked the manual—my car requires at least a V rating. These ratings are lab-tested, but you shouldn't actually drive that fast in real life. However, higher-rated tires are more stable at high speeds and less prone to overheating or deformation. You can find these letters on the tire sidewall, like in 215/45 R17 91W, where 91 is the load index and W is the speed rating. It's best not to go below the factory standard when replacing tires, especially when driving on highways in summer.

[AdrielAnn]

Having driven for over 20 years, I know all the tricks about tire lettering. T-rated tires max out at 190 km/h, H-rated at 210, and V-rated at 240. Nowadays, family cars should at least have V-rated tires. Back when I didn't know better, I'd just look at the price when changing tires, and ended up with H-rated ones that shook badly at 200 km/h. The mechanic said exceeding the speed rating causes delamination. The speed rating letter is printed at the end of the sidewall code, like in 205/55 R16 94V, where V is the speed rating. For vehicles with heavy loads, also pay attention to the number before the letter. Don't just go for cheap low-grade tires, especially if you frequently drive long distances—safety first.

[MelanieAnn]

Tire speed ratings are quite simple, with only a few common ones. H represents 210 km/h, V goes up to 240, W reaches 270, and Y is the highest at 300. Typically, sedans use H or V, while performance cars require W or above. The letter is located at the end of the tire sidewall specification code, so always check the original vehicle parameters when replacing tires. Remember not to exceed the speed limit during use—even if the tire can handle 240 km/h, domestic highways are limited to 120 km/h. However, higher-grade tires offer better heat dissipation and longer lifespan. It's recommended to inspect tires every season and replace them promptly if cracks or bulges are found.