What speed do the letters on tires represent?
2 Answers
The speed represented by the letters on tires is: 1. J represents 100 kilometers per hour; 2. K represents 110 kilometers per hour; 3. L represents 120 kilometers per hour; 4. M represents 130 kilometers per hour; 5. N represents 140 kilometers per hour; 6. P represents 150 kilometers per hour; 7. Q represents 160 kilometers per hour; 8. R represents 170 kilometers per hour; 9. S represents 180 kilometers per hour; 10. T represents 190 kilometers per hour; 11. U represents 200 kilometers per hour; 12. H represents 210 kilometers per hour; 13. V represents 240 kilometers per hour; 14. Y represents 270 kilometers per hour; 15. ZR represents over 240 kilometers per hour.
The speed code is hidden in that row of characters on the tire sidewall. Take the 225/45R17 91W on my car for example—the ending 'W' indicates the speed rating. These letters correspond to the maximum safe speed the tire can handle: W means 270 km/h, H is 210 km/h, and V is 240 km/h. The most common T-rated tires only go up to 190 km/h, so keep this in mind when driving on highways. Choosing tires isn't just about size—last time I replaced mine, I checked the manual and found that sports cars often come with Y-rated tires capable of 300 km/h. For regular family cars, H or V ratings are sufficient, but remember that overheating tires during speeding can be as dangerous as an overinflated balloon. Whenever you spot letters from S to Y on your tires, remember they define the safety ceiling for your high-speed drives.
