🧱 What Is Load Rating?
The tyre load rating indicates the maximum weight each tyre can safely carry when inflated correctly.
It is a critical specification and must match the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements to ensure safe handling, braking, and stability.
⚠️ Fitting tyres with an incorrect load rating can affect vehicle performance and may invalidate insurance cover.
📍 Where to Find the Load Rating
The load rating appears on the tyre sidewall, immediately after the rim diameter and before the speed rating.
Example: 205/55 R16 91V
- 91 = Load rating
- V = Speed rating
🔢 Load Rating vs Load Index
The terms load rating and load index mean the same thing.
They both refer to a numerical code that corresponds to a specific weight‑carrying capacity for each tyre.
⚠️ Does Load Index Rating Matter?
Yes. The load index rating is essential when selecting tyres.
- A load rating that is too low can lead to:
- Tyre damage or failure
- Poor handling and braking
- Increased wear
- A higher than required load rating does not usually provide added benefit and may result in:
- Firmer ride quality
- Increased tyre stiffness or wear
Vehicle manufacturer recommendations should always be followed.
📘 How Is Load Capacity Determined?
The exact maximum load a tyre can safely carry depends on multiple factors, including:
- Vehicle weight distribution
- Inflation pressure
- Driving forces and cornering loads
- Road and weather conditions
Because of this, calculating load capacity manually is not recommended.
Always refer to:
- Vehicle handbook specifications
- Manufacturer‑recommended tyre ratings
📊 Tyre Load Rating Table (Advisor Reference)
The table below shows the maximum load per tyre for common load index values.
| Load Index | Load (kg) |
|---|---|
| 75 | 387 |
| 76 | 400 |
| 77 | 412 |
| 78 | 425 |
| 79 | 437 |
| 80 | 450 |
| 81 | 462 |
| 82 | 475 |
| 83 | 487 |
| 84 | 500 |
| 85 | 515 |
| 86 | 530 |
| 87 | 545 |
| 88 | 560 |
| 89 | 580 |
| 90 | 600 |
| 91 | 615 |
| 92 | 630 |
| 93 | 650 |
| 94 | 670 |
| 95 | 690 |
| 96 | 710 |
| 97 | 730 |
| 98 | 750 |
| 99 | 775 |
| 100 | 800 |
| 101 | 825 |
| 102 | 850 |
| 103 | 875 |
| 104 | 900 |
| 105 | 925 |
| 106 | 950 |
| 107 | 975 |
| 108 | 1000 |
| 109 | 1030 |
| 110 | 1060 |
| 111 | 1090 |
| 112 | 1120 |
| 113 | 1150 |
| 114 | 1180 |
| 115 | 1215 |
| 116 | 1250 |
| 117 | 1285 |
| 118 | 1320 |
| 119 | 1360 |
| 120 | 1400 |
| 121 | 1450 |
| 122 | 1500 |
| 123 | 1550 |
| 124 | 1600 |
| 125 | 1650 |
| 126 | 1700 |
| 127 | 1750 |
| 128 | 1800 |
| 129 | 1850 |
| 130 | 1900 |
| 131 | 1950 |
| 132 | 2000 |
| 133 | 2060 |
| 134 | 2120 |
| 135 | 2190 |
| 136 | 2240 |
| 137 | 2300 |
| 138 | 2360 |
| 139 | 2430 |
| 140 | 2500 |
| 141 | 2575 |
| 142 | 2650 |
| 143 | 2725 |
| 144 | 2800 |
| 145 | 2900 |
| 146 | 3000 |
| 147 | 3075 |
| 148 | 3150 |
| 149 | 3250 |
| 150 | 3350 |
🗣️ Guidance
When discussing load ratings:
- Always check the vehicle handbook or manufacturer specification
- Avoid recommending lower load ratings
- Explain that incorrect load ratings can:
- Affect handling and safety
- Lead to premature tyre wear
- Cause insurance or compliance issues
✔️ Key Points
- The load rating defines how much weight each tyre can safely carry
- It is displayed on the tyre sidewall as part of the size code
- Load rating and load index mean the same thing
- Fitting an incorrect load rating can impact safety and insurance
- Manufacturer specifications should always be followed