The Differences in the 94H & 94T Tires

The "94" part of the 94T and 94H tire codes indicates load capacity, which is the same for both types of tires. A 94 load rating indicates that the tire can safely carry a load of 1,477 pounds. The rating is based on individual tires, so four 94T or 94H tires could support a car weighing up to 5,908 pounds, fully loaded.

The T or H part of the code indicates the speed rating of the tires. A speed rating of T indicates that the tire can be safely driven up to 118 mph. A tire with an H rating has a higher limit -- 130 mph -- which means it can be safely driven faster than the tire with the 94T code. Manufacturers may produce identical tire models with different speed ratings. Tires with an H speed rating are often mounted on sport or sport sedan cars. The T speed rating is more commonly found on family sedans or minivans. H-rated tires may provide a firmer, more sporting ride and handling than similar T-rated tires.

Automobile manufacturers recommend that replacement tires have at least the same load capacity and speed rating as the original equipment tires. If the original tires on a car were rated at 94H, someone replacing a tire with one rated 94T should be aware that the replacement tire has a lower speed rating than the original tires on the car. A 94T tire will usually cost less than a comparable 94H tire, but using the lower-rated tire might compromise the safety of the car.