Imagine you’re driving your car on the highway. The sun is shining, the music is playing – and then you see a sign: “Recommended maximum speed 190 km/h”. You accelerate and enjoy the ride. But did you know that your tires have a “hidden speed limit”? This is where the speed index comes in.
The speed index is a letter that indicates the maximum speed a tire can safely sustain under full load. “T” stands for a maximum speed of 190 km/h. It’s like a small but important promise from the tire manufacturer to you.
Why Is Tire Speed Rating T Important?
“Doesn’t the speed index matter as long as I don’t drive too fast?”, you might ask. Not entirely!
- Safety Comes First: A tire with speed index T is designed for speeds up to 190 km/h. Driving faster can lead to heat buildup in the tire, causing tire damage and, in the worst case, an accident.
- Handling: Tires with different speed indexes have different handling characteristics. A tire with a lower index can feel less stable at high speeds.
- Legal Implications: In Germany, while it’s not forbidden to drive with tires that have a lower speed index than specified in your vehicle documentation, it can lead to legal consequences in the event of an accident.
What Does This Mean for Me as a Driver?
- When Buying Tires: Pay attention to the speed index on the tire sidewalls. It must at least match the value listed in your vehicle documentation.
- In Everyday Driving: Drive defensively and adjust your speed to road conditions, even if your tires allow for a higher speed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Speed Rating T:
- Can I use tires with a higher speed index than required? Yes, that’s not a problem.
- What happens if I drive faster than 190 km/h with tires rated T? The risk of tire damage increases significantly.
- Where can I find the speed index on my tire? The speed index is listed on the tire sidewall along with the tire size.
