davek

No I don't think so.... however, as I understand it, the speed rating isn't just for maximum speed. It also has a lot to do with the handling of the car due to the flex of the sidewall of the tire. This can have a bearing on the overall handling of the car, and potentially loss of control under severe driving conditions. But, I don't think of the Forester as being a high performance car. Higher speed rated tires are normally associated with the performance cars.

I own a 98 Forester S, which is in need of new tires. I'm considering the Michelin Hydro Edge 215/60R16 which will replace the original Yokohama tires of the same size. The only concern that I have is that the Michelin tires have a T speed rating which is step down from the original H rating of the Yokohamas which were installed on the Forester when new. My question is whether the lower speed rated tires will create a problem? Two tire shops say that it won't be a problem but a third won't install a lower speed rated tire. I am aware of the fact that the 98 Subaru model L came with 205/70R15 tires with an S speed rating and I'm not aware that the suspension on the two models differed. I would appreciate your opinion. Dave