Can I Use H Rated Tires Instead of V? Which One Last Longer? - Autos Square (2024)

Tires are an essential part of any vehicle, and selecting the right tires can make a big difference in performance, safety, and longevity. When selecting tires, can I use H-rated tires instead of V? Which one last longer?

Yes, you can use H-rated tires instead of V-rated tires, but V-rated tires tend to last longer. The V-rating indicates a maximum speed of 149 mph, while the H-rating indicates a maximum speed of 130 mph.

In this article, we will look at the differences between H-rated and V-rated tires, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and which type of tire is likely to last longer.

Can I Use H Rated Tires Instead of V?

Before you opt for a tire downgrade, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental differences between H and V-rated tires.

In this section, we’ll explain the significant differences between H-rated and V-rated tires and whether you can use an H-rated tire instead of a V-rated tire.

Tire Rating H or V: What Do They Indicate?

The salesperson will tell you about H or V tires when you visit the tire store. And if you don’t know much about speed, you will feel lost with this term. These letters stand for the tire’s maximum recommended speed.

Introduced in 1980 in Germany, this number is intended to inform drivers of the maximum speed their tires can achieve. Despite the Western adoption of miles per hour (mph), the metric system was developed for kilometers per hour (km/h).

Each letter will represent a different speed, and no two letters will ever be interchanged. This particular number has been thoroughly researched and tested for driver safety, so you can rest easy.

Think about how the tire performs in ways besides its speed rating before going with the cheapest option.

The Difference between H and V Tires

Due to the importance of safety and handling at high speeds on the road, making the right choice is crucial. You can make a sensible decision using the tire rating system.

But there are also significant differences between H and V that must be considered. Tires with an H rating might be designated 225/50HR16, while tires with a V rating would be designated 225/50VR16.

The maximum speed that the tire can achieve is the most crucial factor. A top speed of 130 mph is possible for an H-rated vehicle. The V is faster and can reach up to 149 mph. Each of these tires has received high marks from customers.

To be sure, these two factors can evoke a wide range of emotions in drivers. At high speeds, the stiffer sidewall of the V is more beneficial for traction than the softer sidewall of the other two.

Given the previous, we advise V-rated tires for high performance, whereas H rating is the best option for drivers who prioritize affordably and cruising low in their tires.

Can I Use H-Rated Tires Instead of V-Rated Tires?

When asked this question, many people become flustered. Both the manufacturer and the tire experts advise against this. Especially in Europe, it is illegal to install a lower speed rating.

Substituting a lower-speed tire for a higher-speed tire can damage the vehicle. Because of this problem, the top speed your car can reach will be reduced, and driving will likely become frustrating.

It’s safe to assume that a tire with a higher rating will provide superior grip and handling. And it is not recommended to use these tires instead of those with a higher V rating.

But, if you are on a low budget and don’t need that much performance, just riding in shopping and the office can go for H-rated tires. There is no harm or warning to downgrade your tires.

Which One Last Longer: H Vs. V Rated Tires?

But it’s not so simple as to which tire will last longer. A tire’s longevity will depend on several factors, such as the type of vehicle you drive, your driving habits, and the type of roads you drive on.

For example, if you drive a high-performance vehicle and take it out on the track for a few laps, then a V-rated tire may last longer than an H-rated tire.

On the other hand, if your driving habits are more casual and you’re mainly driving on city streets, then an H-rated tire may be the better option.

In general, both H-rated and V-rated tires should last around the same amount of time, but the V-rated tire may give you better performance.

What Happens if I Combine H and V Tires?

Tires aren’t simply about speed, so you shouldn’t use them on a car with tires with a different speed rating. Tires with higher speed ratings are better for safety and will extend the life of your car’s tread and improve its handling in corners.

Using tires with a different speed rating than the rest of your vehicle’s tires can compromise handling and stability at high speeds. Here are some important considerations for why you shouldn’t drive on a combination of tire speeds.

Handling and Cornering Will Suffer

The size and tires of a vehicle influence how it handles. And the vehicle’s performance at high speeds will suffer if tires with different speed ratings are installed.

There will be a loss of steering stability at high speeds, leading to shaky handling and accidents. The tread’s quality will be affected.

When you combine wheels with various speed ratings, you risk ruining more than just the high-speed handling skills of your vehicle. This is because various speeds necessitate different types of tires.

So, to maximize their performance, you shouldn’t use tires with a different speed rating. The quality and efficiency of the tire’s design have been reduced.

Loss of Control and Grip

As the vehicle’s speed increases, more pressure is applied to the road, which causes the road to wear down more quickly and makes it harder for the vehicle to maintain traction and control.

This might cause an accident if the driver loses control of the vehicle’s frame or suspension.

Safety Constraints

To increase the likelihood of an accident, it’s not a good idea to put tires on your car with differing speed ratings. This increases the likelihood of a blowout, which can cause a quick loss of control.

Using tires that aren’t rated for the top speed your vehicle can go increases the risk of a blowout.

FAQs

How Long Do Tires with A H or V Speed Rating Typically Last?

According to recent reports, experts have calculated that the H-traction-rated capacity is 49,180 miles. Conversely, the superior ones are weaker, with a range of only around 48,260 miles.

Can I Just Get Two of My Car’s Tires Replaced?

Replace only two tires instead of all four if two wear out more quickly than the others. If so, even in front-wheel-drive vehicles, the two new tires should go in the back, while the two slightly worn tires should be relocated to the front.

What Does the 3 Percent Tire Rule Mean?

If the current tires are the size your owner’s handbook suggests, you should look for a set of new tires with a diameter (height) between 3 percent of your current tires’ diameter.

Why Do Front Tires Deteriorate More Quickly?

Since the front tires are responsible for steering and braking, they wear out faster. A front-wheel drive vehicle’s tires will wear evenly if rotated regularly.

How Can I Extend the Life of My Tires?

Checking your tires’ air pressure once a month is recommended to maximize tire life, riding comfort, and vehicle safety.

You should rotate your tires if you drive more than 5,000 miles every month. Wheels should be checked for alignment and balance at least twice a year.

Is a Tire Pressure of 40 Too Much?

More specifically, 40 psi can work for either regular automobiles or sports cars. However, the recommended pressure for compact automobiles is below 35 psi, and the recommended pressure for heavy trucks is 40 psi.

Final Thoughts

After you have finished reading this article, the query “can I use h-rated tires instead of v? Which one last longer?” has been answered.

Different ones are suitable for various vehicles and call for varying speeds and performance when used in a certain situation.

Replacements are not advisable since doing so could make your car more prone to breakdowns and lead to unpleasant consequences.