# Tire speed rating chart

## Quick answer

The speed rating is the letter after the load index (the **H** in 225/65R17 102H). It is the highest speed the tire can sustain under its rated load: **T = 118 mph, H = 130 mph, V = 149 mph, W = 168 mph, Y = 186 mph.**

## Speed ratings from L to Y

| Rating | Max speed (mph) | Max speed (km/h) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| L | 75 mph | 120 km/h |
| M | 81 mph | 130 km/h |
| N | 87 mph | 140 km/h |
| P | 93 mph | 150 km/h |
| Q | 99 mph | 160 km/h |
| R | 106 mph | 170 km/h |
| S | 112 mph | 180 km/h |
| T | 118 mph | 190 km/h |
| U | 124 mph | 200 km/h |
| H | 130 mph | 210 km/h |
| V | 149 mph | 240 km/h |
| W | 168 mph | 270 km/h |
| Y | 186 mph | 300 km/h |

Z (ZR in the size) means over 149 mph; tires above 186 mph are marked (Y) with the rating in brackets.

## Which speed rating do I need?

Match or exceed the rating on your door-jamb placard. Fitting the same rating keeps the handling the car was tuned for. Winter tires are the common exception: a lower rating is accepted on snow tires, but the car should not be driven above that speed.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is H or V speed rating better?

V is rated higher (149 mph versus 130 mph) and usually has stiffer construction for sharper handling. H tires often ride more quietly and last longer; fit whichever your car specifies or higher.

### Can I mix speed ratings?

It is best not to. If you must, put the higher-rated pair on the rear, and treat the lowest rating on the car as its speed limit.

### Does speed rating affect tread life?

Often, yes. Higher speed ratings use softer, grippier compounds and stiffer construction, which usually wear faster than touring tires with lower ratings.

## Tire tools

- [Load index chart](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-load-index-chart)
- [Tire size decoder](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-decoder)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-speed-rating-chart
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.