Tue, 05 May 2026 09:47:00 +0000

Why Your Speed Rating Determines Safety No One Talks About Speed ratings may seem like just a guideline on performance tires or sports cars, but in reality, they are critical to safe driving. While speed ratings like T, H, V, W, and Y are often associated with high-performance vehicles, their true importance lies in how they directly impact safety on the road. Ignoring or misunderstanding your tire's speed rating could put lives at risk—no one talks about this as openly, but it’s one of the most overlooked safety factors in automotive performance. ### What Is a Speed Rating? A speed rating is a letter code assigned to tires based on their maximum speed capability. This rating is tied directly to the tire’s construction, load capacity, and heat tolerance—key elements that determine how well a tire performs under stress. From T (just over 118 mph) to Y (over 186 mph), each rating corresponds to maximum speed limits specific to the tire’s design.