Tyre Load Index Explained

Tyre load index specifies the maximum load capacity of a tyre indicated in kilograms. It’s one of the values that must be looked at when buying new car tyres. Read on to find out more about the tyre load capacity and safety risks involved in fitting incorrectly rated tyres.

Tyre load index

What is the tyre load index?

The tyre load index defines the maximum load a tyre can carry when moving at the maximum speed specified by the tyre speed index. The load index is expressed by a two or three-digit number (from 0 to 279) that corresponds with the maximum weight a tyre can carry. The tyre load index is located on the tyre sidewall. 

The manufacturer sets the maximum load capacity of the tyre, taking into account the most loaded axle of a vehicle. The load capacity is crucial for the safety of the car users and must be considered together with the tyre speed index.

If you plan to choose replacement tyres in a different size than the size recommended by the manufacturer, you should choose tyres with a load index specified in the manual of your car.  

Never install tyres with a lower load index than recommended by the manufacturer.

When buying new tyres for your car, you want them to be safe, economic and comfortable. All these features are achievable provided that you know the parameters which are key to tyre selection. 

You should also refer to the manual of your car which provides a detailed description of tyres recommended by the manufacturer. Such information should also be given on the fuel filler flap, on the pillar behind the driver or on the inside of the driver door. 

Winter tyre tread.

What may happen when you install tyres with an improper load index?

Using tyres with a load index lower than that specified by the manufacturer is always dangerous. Below we present a few reasons why you should observe the guidelines of the manual.

• Faster tyre wear: tyres with the wrong load index may wear faster, increasing your car maintenance costs.

• Risks when driving: too much load on a tyre may result in a tyre blowout, which is likely to cause an accident.

• Loss of driving stability and reduced comfort.

• After a collision or traffic incident, the insurer may refuse to pay the insurance if the car was fitted with tyres not recommended by the manufacturer.

• When using tyres with parameters non-compliant with the manufacturer’s specifications, the tyre guarantee is void.

• A police officer on a routine check may issue a fine if your tyres do not meet the manufacturer's requirements.

Modern safety systems installed in cars, i.e. traction control or ABS, are closely related to the type of tyres recommended by the manufacturer. Fitting tyres that do not meet these requirements causes many problems and safety risks.

Can you use higher indexes than approved?

It is possible to mount tyres with a higher load index and speed index than the ones provided by the manufacturer, but is it actually worth it?

Remember that using tyres with a lower index is risky and, as such, it is against the law. Make sure that you always prioritise road safety. Study the information below and select the correct tyres for your car.