Falken issues consumer warning on speed ratings

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. (March 30, 2015) — Since many vehicles have increased their performance potential, tire manufacturers have had to drastically increase a tire's speed rating — the designation that signals its maximum speed.

Falken Tire Corp. said it is advising consumers to be careful when choosing the speed rating on replacement tires.

“High speed ratings — which indicate how fast a tire can roll at specified sustained speeds safely carrying a load — no longer are limited to the performance category,” said Rick Brennan, executive director of marketing at Falken. “When replacing tires, consumers need to ensure that they're not compromising safety by opting for a lower-speed rated tire.”

Changing fuel economy standards have been the prime reason more cars are coming equipped with high-speed rated tires, Falken Tire said.

“Today, it's the rule rather than the exception for manufacturers to equip traditional family vehicles with super-efficient small displacement engines,” Mr. Brennan said. “With up to 200 horsepower, you're as likely to see a 4-cylinder sedan as an 8-cylinder sports car equipped with high-speed rated tires, such as a V-speed rating (up to 149 mph).”

While it may seem like overkill for a basic transportation vehicle, he said, it's a trend that's here to stay, thanks to ongoing advancements in small engine technology.

For consumers preparing for a tire swap from winter to all-season or summer tires, Falken Tire is advising consumers to: never downgrade a tire's speed rating; don't rely on a tire's speed rating to tell you how much grip or cornering ability the tire provides; and never mix and match tires with different speed ratings.