Tyre Load Rating Explained

0% Finance Available

Unbeatable Warranty

Pro fitting or fast delivery

3 min read

862

The tyre load rating is a number on your tyre sidewall that indicates how much weight each tyre can safely carry.

Choosing the correct load rating is essential for safety, performance, and legal compliance. It ensures your tyres can handle your vehicle’s weight, passengers, and any additional load.

In this guide, we explain what tyre load ratings mean, how to read them, and how to use a simple chart to find the correct load index for your vehicle.

What Is a Tyre Load Rating?

The tyre load rating (also known as the load index) is a number that indicates the maximum weight a tyre can safely support.

You’ll find it on the tyre sidewall as part of the tyre code. For example, in 225/45 R17 91W, the number 91 is the load rating.

Each number corresponds to a specific weight. For example:

• 95 = 690 kg per tyre
• 102 = 850 kg per tyre

This rating works alongside the speed rating to ensure your tyres perform safely under load.

A tyre sidewall showing the load index number

Tyre Load Rating Chart

Use the chart below to see how load rating numbers relate to the weight capacity per tyre:

Why Is Tyre Load Rating Important?

Using the correct load rating ensures your tyres can safely support your vehicle’s weight.

It affects:

Safety – prevents overheating and tyre failure under load
Performance – supports stable handling and braking
Compliance – tyres must meet or exceed the manufacturer’s requirements

Tyre Load Rating	Load in 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

Can You Change Your Tyre Load Rating?

You can choose tyres with a higher load rating to improve durability and load capacity.

However, you should never use tyres with a lower load rating than the manufacturer recommends, as this can compromise safety, handling, and legality.

What Happens If You Use the Wrong Load Rating?

Using tyres with an insufficient load rating can lead to:

• Excessive heat build-up, increasing the risk of blowouts
• Reduced handling and braking performance
• Faster tyre wear and damage
• Potential insurance or legal issues

This is particularly important for vans, SUVs, and 4x4s, which often carry heavier loads or tow.

What Tyre Load Rating Do I Need?

Your vehicle manufacturer specifies the minimum load rating for safe operation.

You can find this in:

• Your vehicle handbook
• The driver’s door frame (tyre placard)
• On your current tyres

Always choose tyres that meet or exceed this rating — never choose lower, especially if you carry heavy loads, tow, or drive a van.

Tips for Choosing the Correct Load Rating

• Check your vehicle handbook for the recommended load rating
• Check the tyre placard on the driver’s door
• Match or exceed the required rating
• Consider heavier use, such as towing or carrying loads

Find the Right Tyres for Your Vehicle

Choosing the correct load rating helps keep your vehicle safe, compliant, and performing as intended. It’s an important part of selecting the right tyres for your driving needs.

Browse tyres by size or vehicle to find the right fit, with expert advice available to help you choose with confidence.

All tyres are available with UK-wide delivery or professional fitting, making it easy to upgrade your vehicle with the right setup.