Wondering what the speed rating on your tires means? If so, our team at Watermark Ford of Marion is here to help. Below, you will find out what the speed rating on your tires means, see a few examples of tire speed ratings, and learn about a few of the many tire services we offer.

If you live or work around Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale, IL, don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you have along the way!


Tire Speed Ratings Explained

The tires on your vehicle have a specific speed rating associated with them, which indicates the maximum speed limit at which they can safely operate for a sustained period. However, depending on other factors, such as road and weather conditions, the tires may not hold up well at the speed indicated by the rating.

All certified tire speed ratings are arranged from A to Z, which represents a range from three MPH to 186 MPH. A indicates the lowest tire speed rating, while Z indicates the highest speed rating. The higher the tire's speed rating, the better handling you'll enjoy when traveling at top speeds.


Tire Speed Rating Examples

In the chart below, you can view a few examples of different tire speed ratings, their corresponding speeds, and the type of vehicle they're often found on:

Tire Speed Rating

Maximum Speed (MPH)

Vehicle/Tire Type

L

Up to 75

Light truck

M

Up to 81

Spare tire

T

Up to 118

Family sedan or SUV

H

Up to 130

Sports sedan coupe

V

Up to 149

Sports car

 

Where is My Tire Speed Rating?

To locate your tire speed rating, you can turn to a few places. If you have your owner's manual on hand, you can find it in there. Otherwise, you will also likely be able to find it in the following places:

  • Driver's-side door
  • Fuel door
  • Noted on glovebox

In some cases, you can also check on the sidewall of your tire. There, you will find the tire speed rating located at the very end of the listed tire size code.


A Brief History of Tire Speed Ratings

Tire speed ratings were originally created in Europe. At the beginning, the tire speed ratings ended at Unlimited V, which topped out at over 130 MPH. Eventually, as tire technology and manufacturing improved, a Limited V and then a Z tire speed rating were also added. 


Tire Service Center & Finder

Looking for a new set of tires? If so, we invite you to use our convenient tire finder to identify the correct tires or replacement tires for your make and model. A few of the 16 popular tire brands we offer include the following and more:

  • Goodyear
  • Michelin®
  • Bridgestone
  • Firestone
  • Yokohama®

At our service and tire center, we have a team of factory‐trained service technicians ready to lend a helping hand with all your tire care needs. We also offer parts and labor warranties if you would like to further protect your investment. Our service technicians look forward to serving you at our full‐service maintenance and repair facility.


Check Your Tire Speed Rating Today

Now that you know a bit more about tire speed ratings, you can check your own tire speed rating today. Then, feel free to reach out to our tire experts at Watermark Ford of Marion with any questions or to schedule a service appointment at our tire center near Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale, Illinois!

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Contact

Watermark Ford of Marion

1910 W. Coolidge Ave.
Directions Marion, IL 62959

  • Sales: (618) 993-2161
  • Service: (618) 993-2161
  • Parts: (618) 993-2161

Hours

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 8am-6pm
  • Wednesday 8am-6pm
  • Thursday 8am-6pm
  • Friday 8am-6pm
  • Saturday 9am-5pm
  • Sunday Closed