The speed rating is found on the sidewall of the tyre. It is the final letter. For example 195/55 R16 87V. The (V) would indicate the speed rating. The speed rating tells you the maximum speed at which the tyre can be driven safely. Speed ratings range from N (87 mph) up to Y (186 mph).
But why is this important? The faster your tyres turn will result in higher temperatures from the heat generated. This is why it is important that the tyre can cope with the speed/heat your car will be driving at. Selecting a tyre with too low a speed rating for the car risks the failure of the tyre at high speeds.
A tyre’s speed rating is the top speed it can maintain under its approved load capacity.
Most common vehicles are fitted with tyres that have a higher speed rating than the actual car will go. A higher speed rating ensures that the tyre is able to cope with the loads imposed by acceleration, braking and high-speed cornering.
