What Does 99T Mean on a Tire?
The “99T” markings on a tire refer to the tire’s speed rating, which indicates the maximum safe speed at which the tire can be driven. The “99” represents the tire’s load index, and the “T” represents the tire’s speed rating, which in this case is 118 mph (190 km/h).
Tire Load Rating
The first part of the code, “99”, refers to the tire’s load rating. This number is a measurement of the maximum weight the tire can safely support.
The scale ranges from 0 to 110, with higher numbers indicating a higher maximum load. A tire with a “99” load rating can carry up to 1,984 pounds.
Tire Speed Rating
The second part of the code, “T”, represents the tire’s speed rating. This letter indicates the maximum speed the tire is designed to handle safely.
The speed rating scale goes from A1 (3 mph) to Y (186 mph), with common ratings including S (112 mph), T (118 mph), H (130 mph), and V (149 mph). The “T” rating on a 99T tire means it can safely travel at speeds up to 118 mph.
Understanding Tire Ratings
Tire ratings are an important consideration when purchasing new tires for your vehicle. The load and speed ratings must match or exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure safe and optimal performance.
Using tires with insufficient ratings could lead to dangerous situations, such as a blowout or loss of control at high speeds.
It’s worth noting that the 99T rating is common for many passenger vehicles, but higher-performance cars may require tires with even higher load and speed capabilities. Additionally, winter tires or off-road tires may have different rating systems to address their specialized uses.
Choosing the Right Tires
When replacing your vehicle’s tires, it’s crucial to select ones that meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) recommendations.
You can usually find this information in your owner’s manual or on a placard located in the driver’s side doorjamb. Matching the tire size, load rating, and speed rating ensures your new tires will provide the same level of safety and performance as the original tires.
It’s also a good idea to research tire reviews and ratings to ensure you’re getting a quality product that will last. Factors like treadwear, traction, and temperature rating can all play a role in the overall performance and lifespan of your tires.
Conclusion
The “99T” marking on a tire may seem like a cryptic code, but it actually provides valuable information about the tire’s capabilities.
The load rating of 99 indicates a maximum load of 1,984 pounds, while the “T” speed rating means the tire is designed to safely handle speeds up to 118 mph.
Understanding these tire ratings is essential when selecting new tires for your vehicle to ensure safe and reliable performance.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.