Choosing the right tires for your car involves more than just size and brand. You need to understand speed ratings, which are crucial for safety and performance. This guide explains the H Vs S Speed Rating, two common ratings you’ll encounter when shopping for tires.
These letters are not random; they represent the maximum speed a tire can sustain under specific conditions. Knowing the difference helps you match your tires to your driving needs and vehicle specifications. Making the wrong choice can affect your safety and your car’s handling.
H Vs S Speed Rating
At its core, the difference between an H and an S speed rating is simple: maximum sustained speed. An S-rated tire is certified for speeds up to 112 mph (180 km/h). An H-rated tire is certified for higher speeds, up to 130 mph (210 km/h). This 18 mph difference is significant and points to variations in tire construction and intended use.
Speed ratings are assigned through standardized laboratory tests. Manufacturers build the tire to withstand the forces generated at its rated speed. The rating is not a recommendation to drive that fast, but a guarantee of the tire’s capability and durability under load.
What is a Tire Speed Rating?
A tire speed rating is a letter code that indicates the maximum speed a tire can safely maintain over time. It’s part of the tire’s service description, which you’ll find on the sidewall. This code is usually at the end of the size information, like in “P215/65R16 95S.” The “S” is the speed rating.
The system was developed in Europe when higher-speed roads became more common. It helps ensure that the tires on a vehicle are capable of handling its potential top speed. Using a tire with a lower speed rating than your vehicle requires is dangerous and can lead to tire failure.
Here’s how the rating system generally works:
* Lower letters (like L, M) indicate lower maximum speeds.
* Mid-range letters (like S, T, H) are common for most passenger vehicles.
* Higher letters (like V, W, Y) are for performance and sports cars.
Where to Find the Speed Rating on Your Tire
You can find your tire’s speed rating on its sidewall. Look for a sequence of letters and numbers that looks something like this: P225/50R17 93H. The speed rating is the last letter in that sequence.
Let’s break down that example:
* P: Passenger vehicle tire.
* 225: Tire width in millimeters.
* 50: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width).
* R: Radial construction.
* 17: Rim diameter in inches.
* 93: Load index (the maximum weight each tire can carry).
* H: Speed rating (130 mph).
If you can’t find it, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the placard on the driver’s side door jamb. It will list the manufacturer’s recommended tire size and specifications, including the minimum speed rating.
The “S” Speed Rating Explained
The S speed rating is one of the older ratings in the system. It stands for a maximum speed of 112 miles per hour (180 kilometers per hour). Tires with this rating are typically designed for family sedans, minivans, and some light trucks.
These tires prioritize comfort, tread life, and all-weather traction over high-speed performance. They often have a deeper tread depth and a rubber compound that performs well in various conditions, including light snow. However, they may feel less responsive at highway speeds compared to higher-rated tires.
Best for:
* Family sedans and coupes
* Minivans and older model SUVs
* Drivers who primarily commute and rarely drive at sustained high speeds
* Vehicles where the manufacturer originally specified an S-rated tire
The “H” Speed Rating Explained
The H speed rating is a step up, denoting a maximum speed capability of 130 mph (210 km/h). For many years, “H” stood for “high performance,” and it marked the begining of the performance tire category. While even higher ratings exist now, H remains extremely popular.
H-rated tires are engineered with reinforced construction to handle the increased centrifugal force and heat generated at higher speeds. They often feature stiffer sidewalls, which improves steering response and cornering stability. The trade-off can be a slightly firmer ride quality and potentially faster tread wear.
Best for:
* Sport sedans, coupes, and many modern crossover SUVs
* Performance-oriented family cars
* Drivers who frequently travel on highways and want confident handling
* Most vehicles where responsive steering is valued
Key Differences in Performance and Construction
The speed rating is a shortcut for understanding a tire’s overall character. The differences between S and H ratings go beyond just top speed.
1. Handling and Steering Response:
H-rated tires generally have stiffer sidewalls. This reduces flex during cornering and braking, giving you quicker and more precise steering feedback. An S-rated tire will have more sidewall flex, resulting in a softer, more comfortable ride but less immediate response.
2. Ride Comfort and Noise:
Often, S-rated tires provide a more cushioned ride because their construction absorbs more road imperfections. H-rated tires, with their firmer build, might transmit more road feel and noise into the cabin. Modern tire technology has narrowed this gap significantly, though.
3. Treadwear and Longevity:
Softer rubber compounds that provide better grip often wear faster. Many H-rated tires use compounds optimized for grip, which can lead to a lower treadwear warranty compared to some long-lasting S-rated touring tires. This isn’t a strict rule, but a general trend to consider.
4. Heat Resistance and Durability:
The higher the speed rating, the better the tire is at dissipating the intense heat that builds up at high speeds. H-rated tires are built with materials and designs that manage this heat more effectively than S-rated tires, making them safer during sustained highway driving.
Can You Mix H and S Rated Tires?
It is strongly discouraged to mix tires with different speed ratings on your vehicle. Here’s why:
* Unpredictable Handling: Different stiffness levels can cause the car to pull to one side or behave oddly during emergency maneuvers.
* Compromised Safety Systems: Your anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are calibrated for four identical tires. Mismatched tires can confuse these systems, reducing their effectiveness.
* Potential for Damage: The drivetrain, especially on all-wheel-drive vehicles, can be stressed if the tires have different rolling diameters or traction characteristics.
If you must replace only two tires, the new ones should match the speed rating, size, and type of the existing ones. The best practice is to always install four identical tires. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for tire specifications.
How to Choose Between H and S Rated Tires
Your choice shouldn’t be about wanting to drive 130 mph. It should be about matching the tire to your car and your driving style.
Follow Your Vehicle’s Recommendation:
This is the most important rule. Check your door jamb placard or owner’s manual. If your car came with H-rated tires from the factory, you should replace them with H-rated or higher tires. Downgrading to an S rating could compromise safety and handling.
Assess Your Driving Style:
* Do you value a smooth, quiet ride above sporty handling? An S-rated touring tire might be perfect.
* Do you enjoy spirited driving on winding roads and want sharp steering? An H-rated tire is likely the better starting point.
Consider Your Typical Roads:
If you spend hours on high-speed interstate highways, the extra stability and heat resistance of an H-rated tire offer a safety margin. For lower-speed city and suburban driving, an S-rated tire’s comfort may be more beneficial.
Climate and Weather:
Both ratings are available in all-season and seasonal variants. An H-rated all-season tire might offer great dry/wet performance but be mediocre in snow. A dedicated S-rated winter tire will be far safer in cold conditions than any H-rated all-season tire. Always prioritize the right tire for the season.
Common Misconceptions About Speed Ratings
Let’s clear up some frequent misunderstandings.
Myth 1: A higher speed rating always means a better tire.
Not true. A higher rating means a tire built for higher speeds, which often involves trade-offs in ride comfort, winter traction, or tread life. A “better” tire is one that correctly matches your vehicle and driving needs.
Myth 2: It’s illegal to use a tire with a different speed rating.
Laws vary, but generally, it’s not illegal. However, it may violate your vehicle’s type approval and could void your insurance in the event of an accident if the tires are deemed unsuitable. It is a serious safety issue.
Myth 3: I never drive over 70 mph, so the rating doesn’t matter.
It still matters. The construction qualities that allow an H-rated tire to handle 130 mph also make it more stable, responsive, and durable at 70 mph compared to an S-rated tire. The rating is an indicator of overall performance capability.
Myth 4: I can put a higher speed rated tire on my car without any issues.
You can usually go higher than the manufacturer’s recommendation without problem, aside from potential changes in ride comfort. You should never go lower.
The Impact on Insurance and Warranty
Using tires that do not meet your vehicle manufacturer’s minimum speed rating can have consequences beyond safety.
* Insurance: If you are in an accident and an investigation reveals your tires were below the recommended specification, your insurance company could deny your claim. They could argue you were driving with unfit equipment.
* Vehicle Warranty: Similarly, using incorrect tires could give a dealership grounds to deny a warranty claim related to the suspension, drivetrain, or electronic systems, blaming the mismatched tires for the failure.
It’s always worth checking with your insurer if you’re considering a significant change from the original equipment tires. Sticking to the manufacturer’s specs is the safest path.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking and Replacing Your Tires
1. Locate Your Current Specs: Find the tire information placard on your driver’s side door jamb. Note the full size (e.g., P215/65R16) and the service description (e.g., 95H).
2. Read Your Current Tires: Go to your car and read the sidewall of one of your tires. Verify the size and speed rating match the placard.
3. Research Options: Use the size and speed rating as your baseline when shopping for new tires. Look for tires that meet or exceed the original speed rating.
4. Choose the Right Tire Type: Decide if you need all-season, summer, or winter tires based on your climate. You can find H and S ratings in all categories.
5. Purchase and Install: Have the new tires installed by a reputable shop. Ensure they are balanced correctly.
6. Break Them In: Drive gently for the first 100 miles or so to allow the mold release compound to wear off and the tires to settle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is H or S speed rating better?
A: “Better” depends on your car and needs. H-rated tires offer higher speed capability and often better handling. S-rated tires may offer a more comfortable ride. The best choice is the one that matches your vehicle’s original specification.
Q: Can I use H rated tires instead of S?
A: Yes, you can usually upgrade from an S to an H rating. The H-rated tire will have a higher performance capability. Ensure the load index is also the same or higher and that the tire fits your wheel.
Q: What does the H and S mean on tires?
A: “H” and “S” are speed rating letters. “S” means the tire is certified for speeds up to 112 mph. “H” means it is certified for speeds up to 130 mph. They indicate the tire’s maximum sustained speed capability.
Q: Is a T rating higher than H?
A: No, it’s the opposite. In the speed rating sequence, T (118 mph) comes before H (130 mph). H is a higher performance rating than T. The common order for passenger tires is S (112), T (118), H (130), V (149), etc.
Q: Do speed ratings affect fuel economy?
A: They can, but indirectly. Higher-rated tires often have more grip and different rolling resistance, which can impact fuel efficiency. However, the tire’s specific design and compound have a bigger effect than the speed rating alone.
Q: Are higher speed rated tires noisier?
A: They can be, due to their stiffer construction and tread patterns designed for grip. However, many modern H-rated touring tires are engineered to be very quiet, so it’s important to read reviews for specific models.
Choosing between an H and an S speed rating is a practical decision that impacts your daily drive. By understanding that the H Vs S Speed Rating represents a real difference in construction and intent, you can make an informed choice. Always prioritize your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation first. Then, consider your driving habits and local conditions to select the best tire within that correct rating category. The right tires are the foundation of your car’s safety and performance, so taking the time to understand these details is always worth it.