Tyre Speed Rating -Insurance Implications

[SPG]

Hi Everyone,

 

just wondered if there are any implications where insurance is concerned when running a lower speed rated tyre than the manufacturer originally intended.

 

I just bought a set of 4 new tyres from my local tyre place for the GF's Mini Cooper, i specifically ordered a "H" rated tyre and confirmed this with the garage three times before agreeing to continue. I returned to collect the vehicle an hour later drove off down the road, but due to them not correctly balancing the front wheels i had to do a u-turn and head back but they were closed.

 

I looked at the online guide and sure enough its a H rated tyre which should be used.

 

any thoughts people, and can i return these?

[Havard]

I am assuming the tyres fitted are not H rated then?

 

H.

[SPG]

Nope he put on "T" rated tyres and "H" rated tyres were what was on the rims

[pistonbroke]

Is T not faster than H?

 

Edit, answered my own question with google.

 

Next question, can the mini do over 118mph?

[Hobgoblin]

They should not have put T rated tyres on a car which had original equipment H rated tyres. In the event of an accident, the insurance company will try to wriggle out of any claim.

 

There is a lot of discussion in the trade at the moment about winter tyres, as they are commonly a lower speed rating than you would expect to find on that size. For example 195/65x15 are normally H or V, and I have seen winter tyres with a T rating. I doubt if there is any car on this size which is OE on Ts. Another common size is 225/45x17, usually OE on W or Y, but on winter tyres I have seen them on Vs. I am sure I have seen the details of the legislation on the Goodyear / Dunlop website, I will have another look when I have more time.

[SPG]

I have requested a letter from admiral which I have shown to the tyre man and now they are being changed, thanks for the help peeps