Tires are the most critical part of our cars. In addition to affecting how well our vehicles perform, they also affect their appearance. For these reasons, you should only get the best one for your car.
However, tires are so much more than most people are aware of. There are differences in a tire’s ability to handle different speeds in addition to differences in size, handling, season, and terrain.
Tires are rated according to different speeds using the alphabetical rating system. The two most popular high-performance tires are H and V speeds. But which one will last longer?
H speed rated tires generally last 920 miles longer than v speed rated tires. It’s because harder rubber compound is used to build H-rated tires which provides better durability
To understand more about the reasons and exact lifespan go through this article. Also, learn what speed rating is and the differences between the H and V-rated tires.
What is Speed Rating?
The manufacturer determines a tire’s speed rating, which tells you what speed you may go on the road without risk. Remember that these speed ratings were created under ideal conditions, so avoid pushing your tire’s limits unless necessary.
Tire speed rating ranges from 3 mph, denoted by the speed symbol A1, to 186 mph, represented by the speed symbol ZR (Y). Except for “H,” most speed symbols are listed alphabetically. Since “H” is sometimes referred to as the “highway” speed tire, it is located between “U” and “V.”
H vs V Tires: What are the Differences?
The speed is the most significant distinction between H and V tires. A tire with an “H” rating is intended to function at a top speed of 130 mph. In contrast, the greatest speed that a “V” rated tire is designed to operate at is 149 mph, or over 20 mph greater than the “H” rated tire.
But there are other differences besides speed. The “V” tire needs to be made slightly differently to function at a faster speed. To begin with, tires with more outstanding speed ratings often have softer rubber compounds than those with slower speeds.
The softer compound is necessary because you need superior cornering and stopping power at faster speeds. A “V” speed tire must also be stiffer for improved handling and integrity at greater speeds.
Which Tires Last Longer: H or V Rated?
H-rated tires generally last about 49,180 miles and V-rated tires generally last around 48,260 miles. So, If you change from an “H” to a “V” rated tire, you should anticipate a loss of about 10,000 miles. So you may be thinking about the reason for the higher durability of H-rated tires.
Why Do H-Rated Tires Last Longer than V-Rated Tires?
Well, H-rated tires typically have a lower speed rating than V-rated tires, which means they are designed to handle less heat and stress than V-rated tires. As a result, H-rated tires are generally made with a harder rubber compound that provides better durability and longer tread life than the softer rubber compound used in V-rated tires.
On the other hand, V-rated tires are designed for higher speeds and are made with a softer rubber compound that provides better grip and handling performance at high speeds. While this softer rubber compound may improve performance, it also tends to wear down faster than the harder compound used in H-rated tires.
| Tires | Lifespan | Speed |
| H-rated tires | 49,180 miles | 130 mph |
| V-rated tires | 48,260 miles | 149 mph |
H vs V Tires: Which One is Safe?
They are both equally safe under normal driving circumstances. Your tires’ safety shouldn’t change depending on their speed rating as long as you keep them appropriately inflated and keep an eye on their condition.
Only when traveling at high speed could one tire possibly be safer than the other. The “V” speed-rated tire will be safer than the “H” rated tire as the speed increases.
It would help if you kept in mind that any speed-rated tire was evaluated under controlled laboratory conditions. Therefore other reasons could limit a tire’s safety well below its specified speed because laboratory conditions are not the same as those on the road.
For instance, tires are tested in the lab at a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considerably cooler than a scorching Arizona day. Furthermore, there’s a chance that the tire has damage you are unaware of, making it fall apart even below its rated speed.
Alternately, you might already be aware of damage to your tire by a plug or patch, which also compromises its integrity. Last, underinflated and overinflated tires are the main culprit in tire blowouts. However, an overinflated tire is not as risky compared to underinflated tire.
H vs V Tires: Which One is Comfortable?
The tires with the “H” speed rating will be more comfortable for you whether you’re cruising down the highway or driving at a suitable speed. This is due to the “V” speed-rated tire’s added rigidity. If the stiffness increases, you will experience more bumps on an uneven road surface.
However, the “V” rated tire will be comfortable if you feel more at ease when you can turn quickly while still trusting your tire more.
H vs V Tires: Which is the Best Choice For You?
Choosing which tire is the best choice depends on you. You should purchase a set of tires with a “V” speed rating if you drive at or above 130 mph. An “H” speed-rated set is preferable if you don’t intend to drive that fast.
A tire with an “H” speed rating will cost less than one with a “V” speed rating. The “H” speed-rated tire is also more comfortable and has a longer lifespan than a “V” speed-rated tire.
Before we step into the FAQ here is another relevant article – v vs zr tires
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do Higher Speed Rated Tires Last Longer?
No. the higher the speed rating on a tire, the lower the tread life.
How Long Do V-Rated Tires Last?
V-rated tires have a short tread life of 48,260 miles.
Can You Mix H and V Rated Tires on Your Car?
H and V-rated tires should not be used on the same car. This is because mixing the tires will affect your vehicle handling performance.
Are H Rated Tires Good?
H-rated tires are the perfect tires for most commuter vehicles and sedans.
How Critical is Speed Rating For Tires?
The speed rating indicates the maximum sustained speed the tire can safely maintain. A higher speed rating typically indicates that the tire can withstand the added heat and will provide greater control and handling at higher speeds. Tires with greater speed ratings also perform better at slower speeds.
Should all the Tires on Your Car Have a Similar Speed Rating?
All four tires on your vehicle should have the same speed rating. Different speed ratings for tires can result in differences in the ride, handling, and other performance features.
how do tire speed ratings work ?
Tire speed ratings indicate the maximum speed a tire can safely maintain over a long period of time. This is determined by laboratory testing the tire’s ability to withstand the heat generated by high-speed driving. The speed rating is assigned a letter, with each letter corresponding to a specific maximum speed in miles per hour (mph). For example, a tire with a “Z” rating is capable of speeds up to 149 mph. It is important to note that the speed rating does not reflect the tire’s handling, traction, or braking capabilities, only its maximum speed. When selecting tires for a vehicle, it is important to choose a tire with a speed rating that is equal to or greater than the vehicle’s maximum speed.
Can I use v rated tires instead of H?
Yes, you can use V-rated tires instead of H-rated tires. The V-rating means that the tire has a maximum speed capability of 149 mph, while the H-rating indicates a maximum speed capability of 130 mph.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that the rating is just one factor to consider when choosing tires. Other important factors to consider include the tire’s size, load capacity, and intended use. If you’re unsure of which type of tire is best for your vehicle, I would recommend consulting with a tire professional or your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Final Take
If you were looking for a tire that will last longer, now you have your answer. H-tires will last longer than V-tires. This is because H tires are made of a hard compound compared to the V-tires, making their treads to last longer.