What “105” Means on a Tyre

On most car, SUV, and van tyres, “105” is the load index: it means the tyre can carry up to 925 kg (about 2,039 lb) at its rated pressure and speed. You’ll typically see it as part of the service description after the size, for example “255/50 R20 105V.” Less commonly, if “105” appears at the very start of the size (e.g., “105/70 R14”), it is the tyre’s section width in millimetres—something more typical on motorcycle or scooter tyres than passenger cars.

Understanding the 105 Load Index

The load index is a standardized code that indicates how much weight a tyre can safely carry when properly inflated and used at or below its speed rating. For passenger and SUV tyres, a load index of 105 corresponds to a maximum load capacity of 925 kg per tyre.

To put 105 in context, here are nearby load index values and their maximum loads:

• 101: 825 kg
• 102: 850 kg
• 103: 875 kg
• 104: 900 kg
• 105: 925 kg
• 106: 950 kg
• 107: 975 kg
• 108: 1,000 kg

These figures are set by international standards bodies (ETRTO/TRA). The capacity applies when the tyre is used within its specified conditions—especially inflation pressure and speed rating.

How load index ties to inflation and tyre type

That 925 kg rating is contingent on the tyre’s design pressure. Standard Load (SL) tyres achieve their rated load at up to about 240 kPa (35–36 psi), Extra Load (XL) at up to about 290 kPa (41–42 psi), and Light Truck (LT) tyres use higher pressures (often 65–80 psi) and typically show dual load indices (e.g., 120/116). Always follow the vehicle placard and tyre sidewall for correct pressures.

Where You’ll See “105” on the Sidewall

The number usually appears alongside a speed symbol and sometimes an “XL” mark. Here are common formats and what they mean:

• 255/50 R20 105V: Load index 105 (925 kg) and speed rating V (up to 240 km/h)
• 235/55 R19 105W XL: Load index 105 with Extra Load construction for higher pressure capacity
• LT245/75 R16 120/116R: Dual load index for single/dual rear-wheel fitments (typical of LT tyres; “105” would not be used here)
• 105/70 R14 (motorcycle/scooter example): Here 105 is the section width in mm, not the load index

If the number is directly before a speed letter (e.g., “105H” or “105V”), it is a load index. If it begins the size before a slash, it denotes section width in millimetres.

When “105” Does Not Mean Load Index

Context matters. On passenger and SUV tyres, a standalone “105” near a speed letter is a load index. However, in some two-wheel applications or very narrow speciality tyres, “105” at the start of the size (e.g., “105/80 R16”) indicates the tyre’s width. Always read the full size and service description to interpret correctly.

Single vs. dual fitment note

Commercial and light-truck fitments often list two indices (e.g., 109/107), reflecting different loads for single and dual rear-wheel applications. In those cases, don’t infer a single “105” value—the tyre’s load capacity is defined by the pair.

Safety and Selection Tips

Choosing and using the correct load index is critical for safety, handling, and legal compliance. Keep these points in mind:

• Match or exceed the vehicle placard: Never fit a tyre with a lower load index than specified on your door-jamb/owner’s manual.
• Mind inflation: The rated load requires proper pressure. Underinflation reduces capacity and increases heat and wear.
• XL vs SL: If your vehicle specifies XL, use XL; substituting SL can reduce load reserve even if the index number looks similar.
• Consider axle loads: Multiply one tyre’s capacity by two for an axle. Ensure it exceeds your vehicle’s GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating).
• Avoid mixing: Don’t mix significantly different load indices on the same axle; it can upset handling and stability.
• Towing and heavy payloads: If you tow or carry heavy loads, a higher load index (and appropriate pressure) may be advisable within manufacturer limits.

Following these guidelines helps maintain safe load margins, braking performance, and tyre longevity.

Key Takeaways

On most car, SUV, and van tyres, “105” is the load index equal to 925 kg (about 2,039 lb) per tyre at the specified pressure and speed. It appears in the service description (e.g., “105V”). If “105” starts the size (e.g., “105/70 R14”), it denotes section width in millimetres—more typical for two-wheel tyres. Always match or exceed the load index shown on your vehicle’s placard and keep tyres properly inflated.

Which is better, T or H speed rating?

An H-speed rated tire is “better” than a T-rated tire if your driving requires higher speed capability and better handling, as an H-rated tire is rated for a maximum speed of 130 mph compared to a T-rated tire’s maximum speed of 118 mph. H-rated tires typically offer better grip, braking, and steering responsiveness, but a T-rated tire provides a more comfortable ride, longer tread life, and is sufficient for everyday driving at moderate speeds. 
T-Rated Tires

• Maximum Speed: 118 mph (190 km/h) 
• Best For: Standard sedans, family vehicles, and city driving where higher speeds are not a primary concern. 
• Benefits: Offers a good balance of comfort, durability, and longer tread life for everyday use. 

H-Rated Tires

• Maximum Speed: 130 mph (210 km/h) 
• Best For: Commuters who frequently drive on highways, or for those seeking improved performance and handling. 
• Benefits: Designed for better performance, with improved grip and stopping power, and increased stability during high-speed driving. 

Key Considerations When Choosing

• Your Driving Habits: Match the tire’s speed rating to your typical driving speeds and conditions. 
• Vehicle Specifications: Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended speed rating to ensure compatibility. 
• Compromises: A higher speed rating generally means a softer tread compound, which can lead to a shorter tread life but better performance. Conversely, a lower speed rating often correlates with a longer-lasting, firmer tire. 

What is the difference between 105s and 105t tires?

A: The 105 is the load index; 105 = 2,039 lbs. The letter is the speed rating; S=112 mph, T=118 mph. Also there other small print 4 digit numbers on the the tire, for example DOT 0615.

What does 105 mean on a tire?

On a tire, 105S means the tire has a load index of 105, which indicates a maximum load capacity of 2,039 pounds per tire, and a speed rating of “S”, which is the maximum sustained speed of 112 mph that the tire can safely handle. You must ensure that the load index and speed rating of any replacement tire meet or exceed the specifications recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
 
105 (Load Index)

• What it is: A number that corresponds to a specific maximum weight the tire can support when properly inflated. 
• Meaning of 105: According to the load index chart, a 105 load index means the tire can carry a maximum of 2,039 pounds. 
• Why it matters: The load index indicates a tire’s carrying capacity. Using a tire with a load index lower than your vehicle’s requirement can compromise safety. 

S (Speed Rating)

• What it is: A letter code that indicates the maximum speed at which a tire can be safely operated. 
• Meaning of “S”: An “S” speed rating signifies a maximum speed capability of 112 mph. 
• Why it matters: This rating shows how fast the tire can perform safely under its given load capacity. 

Where to find the correct rating for your vehicle

• Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the manufacturer’s recommended load index and speed rating for your specific vehicle. 
• Always choose tires with a load index and speed rating that meet or exceed these manufacturer requirements. 

Which is better, 102H or 102T?

In tires, “102H” vs. “102T” signifies the same load index (102), which indicates the tire can carry a maximum weight, but a different speed rating. The “H” in 102H means it is rated for a maximum speed of 130 mph (210 km/h), while the “T” in 102T indicates a maximum speed of 118 mph (190 km/h). The H-rated tire generally offers better handling and braking due to stronger, stiffer sidewalls compared to the T-rated tire.
 
102H

• Load Index (102): Indicates the maximum weight the tire can support when properly inflated. 
• Speed Rating (H): The tire is safe for speeds up to 130 mph (210 km/h). 
• Performance: Features stronger, more rigid sidewalls for improved handling, snappier turning, and shorter braking distances compared to a T-rated tire. 

102T

• Load Index (102): Same load capacity as the 102H tire. 
• Speed Rating (T): The tire is safe for speeds up to 118 mph (190 km/h). 
• Performance: Sidewalls are not as stiff as an H-rated tire, which is suitable for standard passenger vehicles and family sedans but is not considered a performance-oriented tire. 

Key Difference

• The primary difference is the speed rating, with the “H” tire being capable of higher speeds and offering superior performance characteristics than the “T” tire. 
• The load index is the same, so both tires can support the same maximum weight.