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Tyre Load Index: What is it and Why is it important?

Team AckoFeb 16, 2024

As a driver, it is important to understand the load index of your vehicle's tyres. The load index is a numerical code that indicates the maximum weight that a tyre can safely carry when properly inflated. This article will provide a complete guide for understanding tyre load index and its importance.

Contents

What is a tyre load index?
How do I find my vehicle’s tyre load index?
How to select the right tyre load for my vehicle?
Tyre load index chart
Why is tyre load index important?
How does tyre load index affect tyre performance?
What happens if you exceed the tyre load index?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a tyre load index?

A tyre load index is a code that indicates the maximum weight that a tyre can safely carry when it is inflated to the recommended air pressure. It is a standardised system used by tyre manufacturers to ensure that drivers can select the appropriate tyres for their vehicles based on the weight of the vehicle and the load it carries.

How do I find my vehicle’s tyre load index?

The tyre load index is typically displayed on the sidewall of the tyre and is represented by a two or three-digit number. The number corresponds to a specific weight capacity in pounds or kilograms, as specified in a load index chart. For example, a load index of 95 indicates a maximum weight capacity of 1,521 pounds or 690 kilograms per tyre.

To determine the load index of a tyre, you can refer to the tyre's sidewall. The load index is usually located after the tyre size code, following a slash (/) symbol and ending with the capital letter W. For example, in the tyre code "225/55R17 101W", the load index is represented by the number 101.

You can also refer to the tyre load index chart below for the details. The chart lists the load index numbers and their corresponding weight capacities. It is important to note that the weight capacity of a tyre depends on its size and construction. Therefore, it is essential to select a tyre with an appropriate load index for your vehicle based on its weight and usage.

How to select the right tyre load for my vehicle?

It is important to select the appropriate tyre load index for your vehicle because overloading a tyre can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced traction, poor handling, and increased risk of blowouts or other tyre failures. In addition, overloading a tyre can cause the tyre to wear out more quickly and may reduce its overall lifespan.

To determine the appropriate tyre load index for your vehicle, you will need to consider the weight of the vehicle itself, the weight of any passengers or cargo that will be carried, and the recommended tyre pressure. You can find this information in your vehicle owner's manual or on a placard located inside the driver's door jamb.

It is also important to note that the load index is just one of several factors that should be considered when selecting a tyre. Other important factors include the tyre's size, speed rating, and tread pattern. When selecting a tyre, it is important to consider all of these factors in order to ensure that you are selecting the best tyre for your vehicle and driving needs.

If you are unsure about which tyre to choose, you can consult with a tyre specialist or refer to online tyre selection guides that can help you narrow down your options based on your vehicle’s make and model, driving conditions, and other factors.

Tyre load index chart

Here is the tyre load index chart.

Tyre load index	Load (kg)	Tyre load index	Load (kg)	Tyre load index	Load (kg)
75	387	101	825	126	1700
76	400	102	850	127	1750
77	412	103	875	128	1800
78	425	104	900	129	1850
79	437	105	925	130	1900
80	450	106	950	131	1950
81	462	107	975	132	2000
82	475	108	1000	133	2060
83	487	109	1030	134	2120
84	500	110	1060	135	2190
85	515	111	1090	136	2240
86	530	112	1120	137	2300
87	545	113	1150	138	2360
88	560	114	1180	139	2430
89	580	115	1215	140	2500
90	600	116	1250	141	2575
91	615	117	1285	142	2650
92	630	118	1320	143	2725
93	650	119	1360	144	2800
94	670	120	1400	145	2900
95	690	121	1450	146	3000
96	710	122	1500	147	3075
97	730	123	1550	148	3150
98	750	124	1600	149	3250
99	775	125	1650	150	3350
100	800	-	-	-	-

Why is tyre load index important?

It is important to know the load index of your vehicle's tyres for several reasons. First and foremost, exceeding the maximum loading capacity of a tyre can be dangerous and lead to accidents. Overloading a tyre can cause it to overheat, wear out faster, and even fail. It can also negatively affect the vehicle's handling and stability.

Moreover, the load index of a tyre is directly related to its inflation pressure. Underinflating a tyre can reduce its load-carrying capacity and increase its rolling resistance, leading to increased fuel consumption and decreased tyre life.

How does tyre load index affect tyre performance?

The load index of a tyre is a critical factor in determining its performance. A tyre with a higher load index can carry more weight but may have a stiffer sidewall and reduced ride comfort. On the other hand, a tyre with a lower load index may provide a smoother ride but may not be able to carry as much weight.

Additionally, the load index of a tyre is directly related to its speed rating. A tyre with a higher load index may have a lower speed rating, as it is designed to carry more weight at lower speeds. Conversely, a tyre with a lower load index may have a higher speed rating, as it is designed for lighter vehicles that may travel at higher speeds.

It is important to select a tyre with the appropriate load index for your vehicle to ensure optimum performance and safety.

What happens if you exceed the tyre load index?

Tyres are an essential component of a vehicle as they provide the necessary grip and stability on the road. Here is the list of things that can happen if you exceed the tyre load index.

Exceeding the tyre load index can cause serious safety issues and damage to the vehicle.
It can lead to premature tyre failure, resulting in the loss of control over the vehicle.
The tyre's sidewalls may begin to deform and crack, leading to blowouts.
The tyres can wear out much faster than their expected lifespan.
Overloading can lead to overheating, which can cause tyre damage.
It can cause increased fuel consumption due to the added weight.
It can negatively affect the handling and stability of the vehicle, especially when braking and cornering.
Overloading can cause suspension damage or failure.
The vehicle's brakes may become less effective due to the extra weight, leading to longer stopping distances.
Excessive weight can cause damage to the wheels and rims.
The vehicle's steering may become less responsive, making it harder to control.
Overloading can cause stress on the vehicle's frame and chassis.
The added weight can cause problems with the vehicle's alignment, leading to uneven wear on the tyres.
Overloading can cause damage to the vehicle's drivetrain and transmission.
It can affect the vehicle's performance, causing it to struggle when climbing hills or accelerating.
Overloading can lead to increased noise and vibration inside the vehicle.
The added weight can cause damage to the vehicle's suspension, leading to a rougher ride.
It can increase the likelihood of tyre blowouts, which can be dangerous.
Overloading can cause the vehicle to fail to meet safety regulations and result in penalties and fines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here is are the answers to some common questions about tyre load index.

What is the range of tyre load index codes?

The range of tyre load index codes typically runs from 75 to 150, with each number representing a specific weight capacity in kilograms.

How important is the tyre load index when choosing tyres?

The tyre load index is a critical factor to consider when selecting tyres, as it ensures that the tyre can safely support the weight of the vehicle and its occupants under all driving conditions.

What happens if a tyre's load index is exceeded?

If a tyre's load index is exceeded, the tyre may experience increased wear, reduced handling, and a greater risk of failure, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions.

Can a tyre with a higher load index be used in place of a tyre with a lower load index?

Yes, a tyre with a higher load index can be used in place of a tyre with a lower load index, but a tyre with a lower load index should never be used in place of a tyre with a higher load index.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes. Please go through the applicable policy wordings for updated ACKO-centric content, and before making any insurance-related decisions.