What do the speed letters on tires mean?
2 Answers
Tire speed letters indicate the speed rating of a tire, which refers to the maximum speed the tire can safely maintain under specified conditions while carrying its rated load. Below is additional information about tire speed ratings: 1. Generally, vehicle speed is calculated based on wheel rotation speed. For the same number of rotations, changing the circumference alters the distance the wheel travels. When replacing tires, it is strongly recommended to choose tires of the same specifications as the original equipment. If changes must be made, apart from minor adjustments to tire width, it's best not to alter other parameters. 2. Typically, most passenger car tires have speed ratings ranging from S to Y.
The speed letters on tires are crucial indicators for driving! Letters like H, V, and W represent the maximum speed a tire can safely handle—for example, H is 210 km/h, V is 240, W is 270, and so on. With over a decade of driving experience, I know all too well how dangerous it is to ignore these ratings. Once, I was speeding on the highway, and the tires got so hot they softened and deformed, nearly causing an accident. These ratings aren’t arbitrary—they’re based on rigorous testing of the tire’s materials and structure. Exceeding the speed limit can cause tires to overheat and burst, especially in summer or on mountain roads. My advice: before choosing tires, consider your usual driving speed range—for my city commute, 120 km/h is the max, so an H-rated tire is sufficient. Safety first! Always confirm with the repair shop that the tires match your needs when replacing them. Skimping on lower-grade tires isn’t worth the risk, and don’t forget regular checks for wear and pressure.
