Tire Load Index & Speed Ratings

When choosing replacement tires for your vehicle, it's important to keep in mind the Load Index and Speed Ratings specific to your tires.  You'll find these numbers on the sidewall of your tire, along with all other tire specs.  Load and speed ratings should be looked at together when choosing a tire. 

Load Index

Tire Load Index

Tire Load Index is the 2-digit number found at the end of your tire specs.  It refers to the maximum carrying capacity or how much weight a tire can support while fully inflated.  This number typically ranges from 70 - 110, the higher the number, the greater its load carrying capacity.

For example, a load index of 92 can support 1,389 lbs. at maximum air pressure.  Multiply that by 4 tires (4 x 1,389 = 5,556 pounds) to get your maximum load carrying capacity.

Never install tires with a lower load carrying capacity than the tires originally installed on your car in the factory.

Speed Ratings

Tire Speed RatingTire Speed Ratings are letter symbols found to the right of the 2-digit Load Index number.  These refer to the speed at which a tire can carry a load.  These are not recommended speeds to drive at, but rather a way to get a better idea of how well the tire will handle -- tires with a higher rating are likely to provide better handling and traction. 

View the most typical speed rating symbols in the illustrated chart below. 

Tire Load Index and Speed Ratings chart -- Click to Enlarge

Tire Load Index & Speed Ratings Chart

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