When you look at your car’s tyre sidewall, you will see a mix of letters and numbers like 195/65 R15 91H. That last letter – in this case, H – is your tyre’s speed rating. But what does it actually mean? Let me explain in this detailed guide.

What is a Tyre Speed Rating?

The tyre speed rating tells you the maximum speed that a tyre can safely handle when it’s carrying its maximum load. It’s set by manufacturers and tested under controlled conditions. Think of it as a safety limit – going beyond it can overheat the tyre and even cause it to fail.

It’s important to match or exceed the speed rating recommended by your car manufacturer. Using a lower-rated tyre can affect handling, braking, and even your car insurance.

Also read: Tyre Size: Major Factor of Performance

Why It Matters

• Safety: Tyres not rated for your car’s speed can overheat and burst.
• Handling: High-speed rated tyres offer better grip and stability.
• Fuel efficiency & comfort: Some high-speed tyres can affect mileage and ride softness.
• Insurance & legality: In many regions, using tyres with a lower speed rating than recommended is illegal.

How to Read It

Let’s break down an example: 215/55 ZR17 94W

• 215 – Tyre width in mm
• 55 – Aspect ratio (height of the sidewall)
• ZR – Radial construction
• 17 – Diameter of the wheel in inches
• 94 – Load index (how much weight the tyre can carry)
• W – Speed rating

In this example, W means the tyre is rated for speeds up to 270 km/h.

Tyre Speed Rating Chart

Here’s a handy table showing common speed ratings, what they stand for, and the maximum speeds:

Note: ZR is an older notation used for high-speed tyres and usually appears with W or Y.

Tips Before Choosing Tyres

Tyres play a huge role in how your car performs, how safe it is, and how long it lasts. Whether you are replacing old tyres or upgrading to a new set, you need to follow some important tips.

Your car’s manual is the best guide when it comes to choosing tyres. It mentions the correct Tyre size, Load index, and Speed rating. Car manufacturers test these specs for the best performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. So, following what your manual says is always the smartest choice.

Each tyre has a speed rating that tells you the maximum speed the tyre can handle safely. If your car needs tyres rated for 210 km/h (H rating), do not go for a lower rating like T or S—even if you never drive that fast. Downgrading your speed rating can affect Braking distance, Grip at high speeds, and Vehicle control during emergencies.

Using tyres with different speed ratings on the same car—especially on different axles—can cause handling problems. If one tyre is rated for 190 km/h and another for 210 km/h, they will perform differently at higher speeds. That can affect how your car Corners, Brakes, and Responds in wet or emergency conditions. Stick to the same speed rating for all four tyres. If you must mix (in rare cases), ensure both front tyres are the same and both rear tyres are the same, and never mix vastly different ratings.

Even if you choose the right tyre, it is important to maintain it properly. Check Tyre pressure monthly. Low pressure causes poor fuel efficiency and uneven wear. Minimum legal tread is 1.6 mm, but for safety, replace at 3 mm. Rotate tyres every 5,000–8,000 km to ensure even wear. Tyres wear faster when underinflated or when you drive aggressively. Drive smooth and check regularly.

Read: Tyre Pressure Mistakes to Avoid in Hot Indian Weather

Conclusion

Tyre speed ratings are more than just letters – they are crucial to your safety and your car’s performance. Whether you’re cruising on highways or driving around the city, always ensure your tyres match the required speed rating. Spending a little time to understand it now can save you from big problems later.