Tire speed rating chart
The speed rating is the letter at the end of the tire's service description. It is the maximum sustained speed the tire is certified for.
| Rating | Max speed (mph) | Max speed (km/h) |
|---|---|---|
| L | 75 | 120 |
| M | 81 | 130 |
| N | 87 | 140 |
| P | 94 | 150 |
| Q | 99 | 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) | over 186 | over 300 |
Questions
- Where is the speed rating on a tire?
- It is the letter right after the load index at the end of the size, for example the H in 225/65R17 102H.
- Can I use a lower speed rating?
- Tire makers and most vehicle makers advise against it. Use the speed rating on your placard or higher. Some states and insurers also require it.
- What does ZR mean?
- Older sizes such as 245/40ZR18 use ZR for tires rated over 149 mph. Today the exact rating is given by the W, Y or (Y) after the load index.
- Why is H between U and V?
- H (130 mph) was added after the original letters, so it doesn't follow alphabetical order.