Tire Load Index: What It Means

The tire load index is one of several very important metrics to keep in mind while you’re buying new tires along with the size and speed rating. This index can be hugely important if you’re one of the millions of Americans choosing to hitch a camper to your car or hoping to help a friend move. Knowing about load index will help prevent blowouts, damaged tires and potential accidents.

What is a tire load index?

This is a rating that indicates the load-carrying capacity of your tire at maximum air pressure. Basically, this number indicates whether your truck or vehicle can carry the weight it needs to. The higher the number, the greater the carrying capacity.

The number itself is not the weight it can carry; it’s an index, or a representative indicator, that describes the weight it can carry. You’ll want to use our handy tire load rating chart to figure it out.

Where can I find the tire load index on my tires?

This number can usually be found on the sidewall of your tire. (The tire load index number is typically the last number on the sidewall that’s followed by a letter, which is the speed rating.) If you don’t know what load index your car should normally have, check your car’s manual.

Does the tire load rating matter?

Yes, knowing your proper tire load index can help prevent potential blowouts, structural damage and quickened wear-and-tear on your tires. This tire index is especially important for people hoping to haul equipment, trailers and more people. It’s important to remember that these ratings are for a fully inflated tire, rather than a poorly inflated one.

Those shopping for new tires should not consider buying a tire with a lower carrying capacity than what was factory installed (in other words, the original equipment). Also, you don’t want to just buy for the weight of the car itself but also the weight of the passengers, objects and hauled loads that you may be carrying.

What is the most common tire load range?

Your average commuter car or light truck will range from about 70 to 124 for load index; 117 is a pretty typical load rating for a car.

Tire Load Index Chart

Here, you can find most of the more common indexes in our tire load rating chart:

If you have a special tire situation for a large truck, connect with TIRE OUTLET to take a load off and have your questions answered! Schedule your appointment for brand new tires today!