Tyre Speed Chart: Pick the Right Tyres Safely

Posted on: Jun 26, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Tyre Speed Chart: Pick the Right Tyres Safely

Introduction

Choosing the right tyres is about grip and comfort, but it’s also about safety. Understanding tyre distinctions helps drivers stay safe on the road. Speed ratings aren’t just about performance—they can greatly influence safety. This blog will detail the tyre speed chart to help you select the right choice for your vehicle.

How To Find Your Tyre’s Speed Rating

A tyre speed chart is like a cheat sheet that helps you match the right tyre with your driving habits. It lists speed ratings (alphabetical codes printed on your tyre’s sidewall) and the maximum speeds those tyres can safely handle.

Each letter corresponds to a different maximum speed, tested under controlled conditions.

• S = 180 km/h

• T = 190 km/h

• H = 210 km/h

• V = 240 km/h

• W = 270 km/h

• Y = 300 km/h

The speed rating is the last letter in your tyre size marking—for example, 205/55 R16 91V, where “V” tells you the tyre’s speed capacity.

Tyre Speed Chart: How to Choose the Right Tyres for Your Car

Here’s how to select the right type of tyre for your vehicle:

1. Check Your Car Manufacturer’s Recommendation

Always start with the speed rating recommended in your car’s manual or on the tyre placard (usually found on the door frame or fuel filler cap). This ensures safety and performance are maintained.

2. Match Your Driving Style

• City/commuting:

If you mainly drive in urban areas or at moderate speeds, tyres rated S, T, or H are typically sufficient.

• Highway driving:

For frequent highway or fast driving, consider tyres rated V, W, or Y for enhanced stability.

• Performance driving:

Sports cars or performance vehicles benefit from W, Y, or Z-rated tyres.

3. Consider Weather and Road Conditions

Choose tyres that suit your environment. For example, all-season tyres with suitable speed ratings work well in varied conditions. Winter tyres may have lower speed ratings but provide better grip on snow and ice.

4. Don’t Compromise Safety for Speed

Never fit tyres with a lower speed rating than the manufacturer recommends. It can affect braking, handling, and may void insurance or warranty.

Conclusion

Safety starts from the ground up—with your tyres. Always consult the tyre speed chart and select speed-rated tyres that suit your car. Appropriate tyres are an essential safety mechanism, but they should also be included as part of a larger plan for road safety. You must also ensure you have mandatory third party car insurance policy. You can also easily browse car insurance online to find the right coverage.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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