Tire Load Index: What It Means and Why It Matters
- Mariusz Obniski
- Dec 16, 2025
- 2 min read
The tire load index is very important for safe driving. It tells you how much weight your tire can carry. Using the wrong load index can cause tire damage or unsafe driving.
Always make sure your tires meet your vehicle’s load needs.
What Is a Tire Load Index?
The load index is a number on your tire. This number shows the maximum weight one tire can safely hold when filled with air.
Most cars and light trucks have a load index between 70 and 124.
Where Can I Find the Load Index?
You can find your vehicle’s correct load index in a few places:
Your owner’s manual
The tire sidewall (if tire size was not changed)
The Tire and Loading Information placard
📍 The placard is usually found on the driver-side door or door pillar.
Why the Load Index Is Important
The load index helps keep your vehicle safe by:
Preventing tire overload
Supporting vehicle weight
Handling passengers and cargo
Reducing tire failure risk
⚠️ Never choose a load index lower than what the manufacturer suggests. This is often the minimum safe load index.
Can I Choose a Higher Load Index?
Yes. Choosing a higher load index is acceptable.
A higher load index may be helpful if:
You carry heavy cargo
You drive with many passengers
You tow or haul items often
A higher load index means the tire can handle more weight safely.
How to Calculate Tire Carrying Capacity
Each tire has a weight limit based on its load index.
Multiply by 4 to get max capacity for all tires
Multiply by 2 to get max capacity for two tires
This helps you understand how much weight your vehicle can safely carry.
What Is the Tire and Loading Information Placard?
Every vehicle has a Tire and Loading Information placard.
It shows:
Original tire sizes
Front and rear tire info
Spare tire size
Recommended cold tire pressure
Sometimes the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
This placard is your best guide for safe tire choices.
FAQs About Tire Load Index
1. What happens if my load index is too low?
The tire may wear faster or fail. This can be dangerous.
2. Can I use a higher load index than recommended?
Yes. A higher load index is safe and sometimes better.
3. Where is the load index on the tire?
It is printed on the tire sidewall near the tire size.
4. Do all tires need the same load index?
Yes. All tires should meet or exceed the manufacturer’s load index.
5. Who can help me choose the right load index?
A tire professional or mobile tire expert can help you choose correctly.
Want to know more? Click the link below!
Get the Right Tires Delivered to You 🚚
Choosing the correct load index keeps your vehicle safe and balanced. If your tires need to be replaced, we can bring the right tires directly to you and install them on-site.
📞 Call now at (224) 210-5659 or book online to get expert help choosing tires with the correct load index and enjoy fast, professional tire delivery and installation at your home or location.
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