Can I fit a higher or lower speed rating?

Changing your tyre speed rating

Higher speed rating — yes, this is fine

You can fit a tyre with a higher speed rating than your manufacturer recommends without any issues. A higher-rated tyre is simply capable of handling greater speeds and will perform at least as well as the specified rating.

Lower speed rating — not recommended

Fitting a tyre with a lower speed rating than your manufacturer specifies is not advised because:

• It can affect safety at higher speeds due to potential overheating
• It may invalidate your car insurance
• It could result in an MOT failure

Exception for winter tyres

UK law permits fitting winter tyres with a lower speed rating than the vehicle manufacturer's standard recommendation, provided they are genuine winter tyres designed for cold weather use. You must always drive within the tyre's rated speed limit when using winter tyres with a lower rating.