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.
Where can I find my tyre’s rating?
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).
What happens if I choose a tyre with the wrong speed rating?
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.
Tyre speed rating chart
| 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+ |
How do I know that I have the right tyres for my vehicle?
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.
What you need to remember…
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.