Tire speed rating chart
The letter after the load index (the H in 225/65R17 102H) is the speed symbol: the maximum speed the tire is rated for under standardized test conditions.
| Symbol | km/h | mph | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| J | 100 | 62 | |
| K | 110 | 68 | |
| L | 120 | 75 | |
| M | 130 | 81 | |
| N | 140 | 87 | |
| P | 150 | 93 | |
| Q | 160 | 99 | |
| R | 170 | 106 | |
| S | 180 | 112 | |
| T | 190 | 118 | |
| U | 200 | 124 | |
| H | 210 | 130 | |
| V | 240 | 149 | |
| W | 270 | 168 | |
| Y | 300 | 186 | |
| (Y) | — | — | Above 300 km/h (186 mph); load index shown in brackets |
| ZR | — | — | In the size (e.g. 245/40ZR18): capable of more than 240 km/h (149 mph); exact limit from the service description |
Frequently asked questions
Is the speed rating a safe driving speed?
No. It is the maximum speed at which the tire passed a standardized laboratory test at its rated load. Always obey speed limits; heat, underinflation, overloading and damage reduce what a tire can tolerate.
Why does H (130 mph) come after U (124 mph)?
The letters are not in alphabetical order of speed: H (210 km/h) sits between U (200 km/h) and V (240 km/h). Always read the speed from the table rather than from the letter's position in the alphabet.
Can I fit tires with a lower speed rating?
Vehicle makers specify a minimum speed rating, and rules on exceptions (for example for winter tires) differ by country. Check your owner's manual, the vehicle placard and local regulations, or ask a qualified tire professional.
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