New Tires Speed Rating Question

[petegent8]

About to replace the OEM 17 inch Conti Tires on my `08 SL at 35000 miles. I need some advice regarding the speed rating requirements. The manual says to stick with the same as the OEM tires (H rated). The Nissan dealer is ready too sell me T rated tires, my non dealer mechanic and a local tire shop also say T rated will be fine and only will effect the handling in a small way. Another local tire shop says I need to stick with the H rated tire per the manual. The cost and choices are much better in T rated tires. Anyone have any experience, thoughts or info I would greatly appreciate it.

[philipa_240sx]

It's a moot point really, it's almost impossible to exceed the 118 mph (190 km/h) T speed rating so you'd be fine with those tires.

The engine simply runs out of power to overcome the drag at those speeds, you'd need a tail wind or travel downhill to go that fast. Even if you could, the electronic speed limiter cuts in around 120mph.

[petegent8]

Thanks, I know I won`t be driving that fast . I was more concerned with the overall handling, safety and strength of lesser rated tire. It sounds like I shouldn`t be concerned. Are you still happy with your Yokahama`s I saw you went to in a different post? I am Rochester, NY. We get our fair share of snow.

[philipa_240sx]

The Yok Avid TRZ work very well in dry & wet weather, quiet too. I cannot comment on their snow performance as I have a dedicated set of winter tires: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R SUV's.