What a 105 Load Rating Means on a Tire

A 105 load rating (load index) on a tire means it can carry up to 2,039 pounds (925 kilograms) per tire when properly inflated in single-tire fitment. This number is standardized and indicates the tire’s maximum load-carrying capacity; it is not the same as load range (ply rating) or speed rating. If the tire is a P-metric used on a light truck, reduce that capacity by 10% per U.S. guidelines.

Understanding the Load Index

The load index is a numerical code that corresponds to how much weight a tire can support at its rated maximum pressure. A value of 105 maps to 2,039 lb (925 kg). This figure is set by international standards bodies (e.g., TRA/ETRTO/ISO) and appears as part of the tire’s service description, often alongside the speed rating (for example, 105V or 105H).

How 105 Translates to Real-World Capacity

For vehicles with one tire at each corner, a 105 load index means up to 2,039 lb per tire at the specified max pressure, theoretically 4,078 lb per axle (two tires). However, the practical limit is always capped by the vehicle’s GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) and GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). For P-metric tires used on light trucks or vans in the U.S., the tire’s max load must be reduced by 10%—so a 105 becomes 1,854 lb (841 kg) per tire for those applications.

Single vs. Dual Applications

If a tire is intended for dual-wheel service (common on heavy-duty trucks), it will show two load indexes (e.g., 121/118). The first number is for single fitment; the second is for dual fitment. When only one number—such as 105—appears, it refers to single fitment only. Passenger/SUV tires typically do not carry dual fitment ratings.

Key Facts About a 105 Load Rating

The following points summarize the most important aspects of what a “105” means on your tire and how to interpret it correctly.

• Capacity: 105 equals 2,039 lb (925 kg) per tire at the tire’s specified maximum pressure.
• Standards-based: The mapping of “105” to weight is standardized across the industry.
• Not load range: “105” is a load index, different from load range letters (SL, XL, C, D, E), which relate to construction and maximum pressure.
• Not speed rating: The speed letter (e.g., V, H, T) is separate and indicates maximum sustained speed, not load.
• Inflation dependent: The rated load requires the correct pressure shown on the tire sidewall; lower pressures reduce carrying capacity.
• Vehicle limits still apply: Never exceed the vehicle’s GAWR or GVWR, even if the tire’s theoretical capacity is higher.
• P-metric on trucks: If a P-metric tire is used on a light truck/van in the U.S., reduce the listed max load by 10%.

Taken together, these points help ensure you interpret the load index correctly and use it alongside other fitment and safety specifications.

Load Index vs. Load Range vs. Speed Rating

It’s easy to confuse these terms because they often appear together on the sidewall. The load index (105) gives a numeric weight capacity. Load range (e.g., SL, XL, or LT Load Range C/D/E) indicates allowable inflation pressure and construction strength, which supports higher or lower loads at specified pressures. The speed rating (e.g., H, V, T) indicates the maximum sustained speed capability. All three must meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.

Finding the Right Tire and Using It Safely

Use the steps below to match your tire’s load index to your vehicle and maintain it properly for safe operation and longevity.

1. Check the door placard: Find the OEM-specified load index (and speed rating) on the driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual.
2. Match or exceed: Choose tires with a load index equal to or higher than the OEM spec. Do not go lower.
3. Confirm the type: Note whether your tire is P-metric, Euro-metric, or LT-metric; apply the 10% reduction rule for P-metric tires used on light trucks/vans in the U.S.
4. Set the correct pressure: Inflate to the pressure on the vehicle placard for daily use; the tire’s maximum load requires the tire’s maximum rated pressure shown on its sidewall.
5. Consider load range: If you carry heavy loads or tow, select an appropriate load range (e.g., XL or LT Load Range E) that supports the needed pressure and capacity.
6. Weigh when in doubt: If you’re near capacity, weigh the vehicle/axles to ensure compliance with GAWR, GVWR, and tire limits.

Following these steps helps ensure you get the right tire for your vehicle and operate it within safe, manufacturer-approved limits.

Examples and Context

A crossover/SUV may be fitted with a 235/55R19 tire rated 105V XL. Here, “105” means 2,039 lb at the tire’s specified maximum pressure, and “XL” indicates an Extra Load construction that permits higher pressure than Standard Load tires—useful for heavier vehicles. If that same vehicle tows or carries cargo regularly, maintaining the correct pressures becomes especially important to preserve load capacity and tire life.

Summary

A 105 load rating means the tire can support up to 2,039 lb (925 kg) per tire in single-tire configuration at the specified maximum pressure. It’s a standardized capacity number, separate from load range and speed rating. Always match or exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s specified load index, adjust for P-metric tires on light trucks (−10% in the U.S.), and never exceed the vehicle’s GAWR or GVWR.

What load index is load range E?

There is no single universal load index for load range E, as the load index is specific to the tire’s size and pressure, not the load range itself. A load range E indicates the tire’s construction can withstand pressures and loads similar to an old 10-ply tire, and its exact load capacity can range from roughly 3,000 to over 3,600 pounds per tire, depending on the specific tire. For example, some E-rated light truck (LT) tires might have a load index of 121 or higher, but you must consult the specific tire’s load and inflation tables to determine its precise weight capacity at its recommended inflation pressure.
 
What Load Range E Means

• Construction: Load range E is a common rating for light truck (LT) and heavy-duty tires, designed to handle heavy loads and high pressures, equivalent to a 10-ply tire. 
• Applications: These tires are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles like 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups, large SUVs, vans, and heavy-duty trailers. 
• Inflation Pressure: E load range tires typically require a higher air pressure, often 80 PSI, to achieve their full load-carrying capacity. 

Load Index vs. Load Range

• Load Range (Letter Rating): Opens in new tabThis is a general classification of a tire’s durability and how much air pressure it can hold. 
• Load Index (Number): Opens in new tabThis is a specific numerical code found on the tire’s sidewall that corresponds to the maximum weight a single tire can support at a given air pressure. 

How to Find the Correct Load Index

1. Check the Tire Sidewall: Look for a load index number next to the tire size (e.g., “LT275/70R18 121E”). 
2. Consult Load Index Tables: Use an official tire load index chart to find the weight capacity that corresponds to the load index number. 
3. Verify with Tire Manufacturer: Always confirm the load and pressure information on the tire’s sidewall or by consulting the manufacturer’s specific load and inflation table for the exact capacity. 

What does a tire load index of 105 mean?

A tire load index of 105 means that each tire can support a maximum weight of 2,039 pounds (925 kg). This number is found on the tire’s sidewall, usually near the end of the size specification and before the speed rating letter. It’s crucial to match or exceed the original equipment (OE) load index to ensure your tires can safely carry the vehicle’s weight and load.
 
How to find and use the load index:

1. Locate the load index: Find the two or three-digit number on the tire’s sidewall that comes before the letter indicating the speed rating. 
2. Consult a load index chart: Use the number (105 in this case) to look up the corresponding weight capacity in a load index chart. 
3. Check the vehicle manual: If you are unsure what load index your car requires, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended tire size and load rating. 
4. Match or exceed OE: You should always use tires with the original equipment load index or a higher one to maintain safety and ensure the tire can handle the vehicle’s weight. 

What does 105s 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. 

What does the 105W mean on a tire?

The size ends with the load index 105, which is the maximum weight that each wheel can support, and the speed rating W, which is the maximum speed at which the tire is approved for use.