Can I fit a higher / lower speed rating?

Changing the speed rating on can be dependent on the type of vehicle you own.

If you are buying tyres for a 4x4 we recommend that you keep to the original speed ratings as fitted when the 4x4 rolled off the production line. If you wish to make changes then you should verify the change is suitable from the vehicle manufacturer. Blackcircles.com cannot take responsibility for any mechanical issues that are caused as a result of a change of speed ratings.

However, for cars the fitting of a higher speed rating is fine. If you do choose a tyre with a higher speed rating though, we recommend that you match the tyres across the axels, avoiding having different speed ratings fitted on either side of the car.

We do not recommend lowering the speed rating to anything less than was fitted to your vehicle as original equipment on the production line.

Can I mix V and W tyres?

It is generally not recommended to mix V and W rated tyres on a vehicle. The reason for this is that car tyres with different speed ratings can have different handling characteristics, which can affect the overall performance and safety of the vehicle. Using tyres with different speed ratings can also cause uneven wear and tear on the tyres, leading to a shorter lifespan and potentially compromising the safety of the vehicle.

Speed ratings and winter tyres

The only exception to this is a winter tyre. This is due to the fact that they are generally available in lower speed ratings than the more standard ‘summer’ tyres. This because vehicles generally travel at much slower maximum speeds in winter conditions.

Often the reduction in speed rating will be only one rating, - e.g. V to H but not T.

However, to avoid any issues you should check what size and speed rating is recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Usually this information can be found on the car pressure sticker or the handbook of the car.

Very few insurers require you to advise them when you change over to winter tyres, a list of all insurers was published by the Association of British Insurers - More info

A list of those that do require notification and those where the fitting of winter tyres affects the amount of cover provided to customers is listed below:

Insurer: eCar

Do customers need to inform the insurer when fitting winter tyres to their cars?

Yes by phone or email

Does the fitting of winter tyres affect the amount of cover provided to customers?

No

Insurer: Southern Rock Insurance

Do customers need to inform the insurer when fitting winter tyres to their cars?

Yes by phone or email

Does the fitting of winter tyres affect the amount of cover provided to customers?

No

Insurer: Swiftcover

Do customers need to inform the insurer when fitting winter tyres to their cars?

Yes

Does the fitting of winter tyres affect the amount of cover provided to customers?

No