What Is Tire Load Index?
Understanding the weight capabilities of a tire is a key safety component when driving, especially when towing or hauling.
Austin Lott | Capital One
QuickTakes:
Tires are an essential safety component of every vehicle. Like brakes, rotors, and other consumable items on a vehicle, tires see a lot of wear and tear. This means car owners are very likely to replace them at some point during their ownership experience.
Shopping for new tires can be overwhelming, as there are many different specifications that relate to size, speed rating, and grip. However, one important yet often misunderstood figure is the tire load index. Here's some important tips to keep in mind about this important aspect of tires.
What Is a Tire Load Index?
The tire load index is a number that usually ranges from 65 and 170 and translates to a single tire's load-carrying ability. The numbers correspond to a weight figure on an index that describes how much weight the tires can carry. The higher the number, the more weight the tire can handle.
The rating includes both tires and the vehicle's load, such as passengers or cargo. Understanding this figure is important, because keeping the load within the rating's parameters can help prevent extra wear and tear on tire rubber as well as reduce the likelihood of tire failures or blowouts. Overloading your tires can lead to longer braking distances and compromised handling, as well.
The tire load index is especially useful for vehicle owners who plan to tow or haul. Those tackling heavy trailers will want the appropriate tires as they approach the gross vehicle weight rating.
Light-duty truck tires sometimes have two tire load index figures. The first figure describes the capability of the tire when used on a vehicle with a traditional single-wheel rear axle, and the second number is for vehicles with a dual-wheel rear axle.
Typically the second number is a bit lower than the first. This is a measure to ensure safety in case one of the two tires fails, leaving just a single tire to handle the burden.
Where Do You Find the Tire Load Index?
Like many tire specifications, the tire load index is found on the sidewall of the tire. It's usually the last number on the tire, sandwiched between the size of the tire and the speed rating. The vehicle's owner's manual also lists the recommended tire load index.
When replacing tires, it's important to stick with the same tire load index that is recommended in the owner's manual, or higher. Anything lower could negatively affect the safety and capability of the vehicle.
