Tyre Speed Rating Explained
Chart, Letters & What They Mean
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The tyre speed rating is a letter on your tyre sidewall that indicates the maximum speed the tyre can safely handle under the correct load and inflation conditions.
Choosing the correct tyre speed rating is important for safety, handling, and legal compliance. It also affects your vehicle’s performance at higher speeds.
In this guide, we explain what tyre speed ratings mean, how to read them, and how to use a simple chart to find the right rating for your vehicle.
What Is a Tyre Speed Rating?
This letter shows the maximum speed a tyre can safely sustain.
You’ll usually find it at the end of the tyre code on the sidewall. For example, in 225/45 R17 91W, the letter W is the speed rating.
This rating works alongside the load index, which indicates how much weight the tyre can carry safely.
Why Is Tyre Speed Rating Important?
Using the correct speed rating helps ensure your tyres perform safely at the speeds your vehicle is designed for.
It matters because it can affect:
• Safety – tyres must withstand heat and stress at speed
• Handling – the right rating supports stability, braking, and cornering
• Compliance – your replacement tyres should meet or exceed your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation
In some cases, fitting tyres with an incorrect speed rating can affect insurance cover or road legality, so it’s important to check before replacing them.
Where to Find the Tyre Speed Rating
Look on the tyre sidewall for a code such as 225/45 R17 91W.
In this example:
- 225/45 R17 = tyre size
- 91 = load index
- W = speed rating
If you’re unsure how to read the full code, consult your vehicle handbook or compare it with your current tyres.
Tyre Speed Rating Chart
Use the chart below to see what each tyre speed rating letter means:
| SPEED SYMBOL | MAX SPEED MPH | MAX SPEED KM/H |
|---|---|---|
| K | 68 | 110 |
| L | 75 | 120 |
| M | 81 | 130 |
| N | 87 | 140 |
| P | 93 | 150 |
| Q | 100 | 160 |
| R | 106 | 170 |
| S | 112 | 180 |
| T | 118 | 190 |
| U | 124 | 200 |
| H | 130 | 210 |
| V | 149 | 240 |
| W | 168 | 270 |
| Y | 186 | 300 |
| (Y) | 186+ | 300+ |
What Do the Letters Mean?
Each speed rating letter indicates the maximum approved speed.
Common examples include:
- S = up to 112 mph
- T = up to 118 mph
- H = up to 130 mph
- V = up to 149 mph
- W = up to 168 mph
- Y = up to 186 mph
In general:
- S and T ratings are common on everyday vehicles
- H and V ratings are often used on family cars, SUVs, and performance-focused vehicles
- W and Y ratings are typically found on high-performance or sports vehicles
What Does Z Mean on Tyres?
Z was originally used to indicate that a tyre was rated for speeds above 149 mph.
Today, modern tyres usually show a more precise rating, such as W or Y. For example, 225/40ZR18 92Y gives the exact speed capability more clearly.
W vs V Tyres
V-rated tyres are approved for speeds up to 149 mph, while W-rated tyres are approved for speeds up to 168 mph.
If your vehicle was originally fitted with W-rated tyres, you should usually replace them with the same rating or higher to maintain safety and comply with the manufacturer’s requirements.
Key Things to Remember
- Always match or exceed the speed rating recommended by the vehicle manufacturer
- Higher speed ratings can improve high-speed stability, but may affect comfort or tread life
- Never fit a lower speed rating unless specifically approved for your vehicle
Find the Right Tyres for Your Vehicle
Choosing the correct speed rating helps keep your vehicle safe, compliant, and performing as intended. It’s an important part of selecting the right tyres for your driving needs.
Browse tyres by size or vehicle to find the right fit, with expert advice available to help you choose with confidence.
All tyres are available with UK-wide delivery or professional fitting, making it easy to upgrade your vehicle with the right setup.
