What is the Tyre Load Index and Why is It Important?

What is a Tyre Load Index?

The tyre load index is a code that indicates the maximum load that a tyre can safely carry. A fully inflated tyre to the recommended air pressure can only carry a load up to a certain load. If it is overloaded, the tyres can easily get worn out, and the lifespan of the tyres can also be reduced.

Tyre manufacturers mark the maximum load a tyre can carry, usually by a two or three-digit number on the side wall of the tyre. The tyre load index is indicated in kilograms or pounds.

The vehicle speed and load capacity can have an influence on each other. Driving at a very high speed with heavy loads can exert too much pressure on the tyres. Such practices can damage the tyres, so it is advisable to maintain the specified tyre load index.

 

How to find the Tyre Load Index?

There will be a specific tyre load index for different tyres, which is usually represented on the sidewall of the tyres. Along with the tyre load index, the size and specification of the tyres will also be printed.

 

A step-by-step process is used to identify the tyre load index.

 

Try to locate the tyre load index on the sidewall of the tyres. The index is identified by a number and an alphabet. The number denotes the load index.

 

The load index number corresponds to a specific weight capacity and differs for each tyre. Each number represents a particular load capacity, either in kilograms or pounds.

 

A load index chart will be provided to decode the tyre's maximum load capacity. For example, a tyre with a load index of 91 corresponds to a maximum load capacity of 615 kg per tyre.

 

Additionally, other specifications will be given, like a speed symbol, such as 91V, which indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can sustain its maximum load capacity.

 

Still, if you are unable to find the load index or are unsure of it, try reading the vehicle manual or checking with a professional tyre dealer. The tyre load index chart is listed below.

 

The provided values are approximate and can differ from the tyre type and the manufacturer's type. Additionally, ensure that the tyre load index matches the vehicle's specific requirements.

 

Choosing the Right Load Index for Your Vehicle

Choosing the correct load index can be crucial for a safe driving experience and also avoids problems like reduced traction, handling difficulty and an increase in the risk of blowouts and other tyre failures. Additionally, frequent overloading can lead to blowouts and reduce the lifespan of the tyres.
 

Tyre Load Index	Load (Kilograms)
70	335
75	387
80	450
85	515
90	600
95	690
100	800
105	925
110	1060
115	1215
120	1360

 

To choose the right tyre load index for a vehicle, it is important to consider its weight, the total number of passengers travelling, and the recommended tyre pressure. This information can be found on the driver’s door jamb or in the vehicle owner’s manual.

 

While choosing the load index, other factors to consider are tyre size, tread pattern and speed rating.  If you are not sure about the specifications, talk to your tyre dealer and find the correct one.

 

When choosing the tyre load index, make sure you consider all the options and choose the one that best suits your vehicle, load capacity and driving speed.

 

Factors Affecting Tyre Load Index

There are certain factors that can affect the tyre load index. Some of which are listed below.

 

Tyre Pressure

If the tyre is inflated to a lower or higher pressure than the recommended range, it can affect the load index. This can lead to wear and tear and cause an abnormal increase in the load index, which can have an adverse effect on the tyres.

 

Loading Capacity

Loading capacity can be a major factor affecting the load index. Frequent overloading of the vehicle reduces the lifespan of the tyres. In some cases, it can be dangerous, as it can lead to accidents.

 

Wheel alignment

If the load index does not match the vehicle's load, it can affect the wheel alignment. If you're driving straight, the vehicle can be pulled to the left or right.

 

Car speed

Each tyre has its own load index and, likewise, its own speed level index. Exceeding the speed limit can reduce the tyres' lifespan and should be avoided.

 

Importance of Tyre Load Index for Safety

The tyre load index is important as overloading can damage the tyres and lead to significant consequences like accidents, tyre damage, and blowouts. It can also affect stability, cause overheating, and cause the tyre to wear out easily.

 

The load index is related to inflation pressure, and underinflating the tyres can reduce the load-carrying capacity. It can also increase the rolling resistance, which leads to increased fuel use and decreased tyre life.

 

What happens if you use the wrong load index?

Tyres provide grip to a vehicle, and choosing the wrong load index can affect its overall performance. The wrong tyre load index may not provide the necessary stability or support to the vehicle.

• Exceeding the tyre load index can pose a severe safety issue and cause the vehicle to lose stability and control.
• A higher or lower tyre index can cause premature tyre failure.
• If the tyre index is wrongly chosen, it can deform or crack the sidewalls of the tyres.
• The tyres tend to wear out faster than the expected tyre damage. In such cases, frequent tyre changes may be required.
• Overloading above the load index can increase fuel consumption, and more effort will be required to pull the weight.
• When overloaded, it will be required to stop the vehicle at longer distances and will be required to break often, which can reduce the efficiency of the breaks.
• Excessive overloading can lead to damage to wheels and rims.
• The vehicle's steering can become less responsive and make it harder to control.
• Frequent overloading of vehicles can damage the vehicle’s transmission and drivetrain.
• When climbing the hills, overloaded vehicles can be difficult to climb, creating increased noise.
• Overloading can negatively affect the vehicle's stability when braking or steering.
• Tyre blowouts have become very common and can be dangerous while driving.
• Overloaded vehicles may not meet safety regulations and may result in fines and penalties.

 

Conclusion

The tyre load index plays a crucial role in ensuring the tyre's safety, performance and longevity. The load index is usually indicated on the sidewall of the tyre and it indicates the maximum weight it can carry.

 

The load capacity should not exceed the vehicle's tyre load index. If overloaded, it can damage the tyres and reduce their lifespan.

 

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FAQs

1. Can I switch to a tyre with a higher load index in place of the lower load index?

Yes, you can use a tyre with a higher load index instead of a lower tyre index. However, it is recommended not to use a lower tyre index in place of a higher tyre index.

 

2. Why does the tyre load index matter?

The tyre load index is important, as overloading above the tyre index can reduce the tyre's life span, damage the car, and lead to tyre failure.

 

3. What is the lifespan of the tyres?

Changing the tyres once every 5-6 years is recommended.