Tyre speed ratings explained

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Tyre speed rating (TSR) is the maximum, approved speed that tyres can be driven at. It is important to note that the tyre’s rating is based on the recommended load index that is also on your tyre.

Ratings are determined by the results of practical tests carried out by engineers when new tyres are designed and manufactured, to ensure they can safely maintain use at the maximum speed it is rated at when carrying a determined amount of weight.

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The TSR is part of the tyre speed index system which indicates the maximum speed your tyre can be driven on. The system is a lettered code, and letters correspond to speeds. Your rating is clearly displayed on the sidewall of your tyre.

Most standard consumer vehicles fall under the speed rating of S or T (for 112 or 118 mph limits). However, if you drive a high-performance vehicle or a sports car that often have wide diameter tyres you may need to opt for a rating of W, Y or (Y).

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Speed rating	mph	km/h	Speed rating	mph	km/h
A1	3	5	K	68	110
A2	6	10	L	75	120
A3	9	15	M	81	130
A4	12	20	N	87	140
A5	16	25	P	93	150
A6	19	30	Q	100	160
A7	22	35	R	106	170
A8	25	40	S	112	180
B	31	50	T	118	190
C	37	60	U	124	200
D	40	65	H	130	210
E	43	70	V	149	240
F	50	80	W	168	270
G	56	90	Y	186	300
J	62	100	(Y)	186+	300+

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If you buy and fit tyres with the wrong rating, your safety could be compromised, as tyres are integral to braking, steering and grip.

Installing the wrong tyres could void your manufacturer’s guarantee and also invalidate your insurance in the event of a claim. In the worst case, tyres with the wrong rating could cause a blowout or a serious incident.

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When buying a tyre, ensure that it is labelled, which provides you with the essential information pertaining to speed, braking distance in different conditions, load, and fuel efficiency. If you are unsure, please consult a tyre specialist who will make sure the tyres being fitted are appropriate and safe.

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Your tyres’ rating is an indication of the maximum speed that the tyre can be driven on. This does not reflect or coincide with legal road speed limits which are almost always much lower for your safety and the safety of others.

You should not be exceeding the national speed limit. Even in a controlled environment, such as a race track, you are still at significant risk.

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