kanklez

hey guys,
Had a question about the speed rating of our rear tire. I believe it has a speed rating of "Y." Since the max speed a car "should" go is based upon the speed rating of the tire, technically we don't need to use a speed rating of "Y" if we don't intend on going 160+ mph. A rating of "H" should be ok since i never drive my car past 70 mph?

I only ask because when I was ordering a set of rear tires from costco for my stocks, they wouldn't allow me to order anything but the speed rating of "Y" in their book.

UniSlayEX

You want to stick with what the manufacturer has recommended. The tires they selected are the ones that best give your vehicle the performance you fell in love with when you first drove the car. The speed rating not only says how fast they can go. The higher the speed rating the more components go into the construction of the tire to ensure it will perform in high speeds, even at constant. Those additional components in turn can have a significant impact on how the tire behaves, even at low speeds. Things like steering response, braking, road holding and so on. The greater the thread on the tire, the more you're on the road thus the better handling.

Depending on where you live (I myself in CA) you may want to look at the Hankook Ventus V12. It's an affordable tire (cheaper than OEM at least) and has a better rating. I found them to be a little softer handling than my factory tire but the drive is smooth.

kanklez

Thanks. Good to know there was more to it

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Buy whatever tires you want, its your car and your money. If they won't sell you the tires you want, go some where else that will be glad to sell you the tires. It is smart to offer manufacturer recommend tire sizes and ratings, but you are the customer...and you are always right. Lol!

kickin8

iTrader: (1)

I would not go under the recommended ratings.....

zig@tr

The 06' Lexus IS250 requires a speed rating of "V" or above. The majority of tire installers would be very reluctant to install anything lower, because if your were to be in serious accident those under rated tires they installed could be considered a factor "legally". Not to mention the lower speed rated tires would not respond as quick and would deduct for the sporty feel the IS was intended to have. But "Y" is not a requirement the majority of IS250's made in 06' came with "V" rated tires right from the factory.