What does 91V on tires mean?
2 Answers
Tire 91V refers to the load index and speed rating. 91 represents the load index, indicating a maximum load capacity of 615Kg per tire. V denotes that the tire's maximum allowable speed is 240 kilometers per hour. The load index is molded on the tire sidewall, showing the maximum load capacity for safe driving. Exceeding this limit may cause excessive heat buildup and sudden tire failure. The speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can carry a specified load under defined conditions. Every tire has a designed critical speed - when driving at this speed, standing waves will appear on the tire surface. Continuing to use the tire beyond this speed risks dangerous blowouts. For safety reasons, tires must not be used beyond their designed speed limits.
The 91V marking on tires is actually quite common. The 91 is the load index, meaning each tire can bear a maximum weight of 615 kilograms, and the V represents the speed rating, indicating a maximum safe speed of 240 kilometers per hour. When selecting tires, it's important to match these with the vehicle manual, as mismatches can easily lead to overloading and accidents, such as tire overheating and blowouts at high speeds or shortened lifespan. Having repaired many cars myself, I've found that beginners often overlook this, installing cheap, low-grade tires that lead to wheel deformation or uneven tire wear. International standards like ISO establish these ratings to ensure safety. It's recommended to check the specifications during every maintenance check and not cut corners, especially when carrying heavy loads or going on long trips to ensure compatibility. Regularly monitoring tire pressure and wear can also extend tire life and prevent unexpected risks.
