What Is a Good Load Index for Tires?

A good load index is one that meets or exceeds your vehicle manufacturer’s specification on the driver’s door placard; for most modern cars that typically means 91–95 for sedans, 99–104 for small SUVs, and 104–117 (or higher) for larger SUVs and pickups, with many EVs requiring 102–109 in XL or HL versions. The load index is a standardized number that translates to the maximum weight a tire can safely carry at its rated inflation, and choosing too low a number risks overheating, blowouts, and legal or insurance issues.

What the Load Index Means

The load index is a numerical code molded on a tire’s sidewall that corresponds to the maximum load each tire can carry at its rated inflation pressure and speed category. It works per tire, per axle (two tires), and ultimately for the whole vehicle, and it must be read in the context of the manufacturer’s recommended tire size, pressure, and speed rating shown on the door placard or in the owner’s manual.

Passenger tires (P‑metric and Euro‑metric) are sold as Standard Load (SL) or Extra Load (XL), with XL offering higher capacity at a higher rated inflation. Newer High‑Load (HL) passenger tires raise capacity further—often used on heavier EVs. Light‑truck (LT‑metric) tires use a different scheme—Load Range C/D/E/F—which indicates higher allowable pressures and capacities. At sustained very high speeds, some tires require a load reduction; tire makers publish those limits. Regardless of tire type, never choose a replacement with a lower load index than the original equipment (OE) specification.

Typical Load Index Targets by Vehicle Type

The following ranges reflect what’s commonly fitted today; your exact requirement depends on your vehicle’s placard and options (towing package, wheel size, EV battery mass, etc.).

• Compact and midsize sedans: 91–95 (roughly 615–690 kg / 1,356–1,521 lb per tire)
• Large sedans and wagons: 95–99
• Small crossovers and compact SUVs: 99–104
• Midsize and three‑row SUVs: 102–109
• Half‑ton pickups (P‑metric/XL): 103–113; LT options may use Load Range C/D with similar or higher capacity
• Three‑quarter and one‑ton pickups (LT): Load Range E or higher, often LI 120–129+ (about 3,086–4,079 lb per tire)
• Electric vehicles: often 102–109 in XL or HL; heavier EV trucks/SUVs can require 110–117 or LT Load Range E

Use these bands as a directional guide only. Always match or exceed the specific load index printed on your door placard when selecting replacement tires.

Common Load Index Numbers and Capacities

Here are widely encountered load index points with their approximate maximum loads per tire when correctly inflated to the tire’s rated pressure.

• 91: 615 kg (1,356 lb)
• 94: 670 kg (1,477 lb)
• 97: 730 kg (1,609 lb)
• 100: 800 kg (1,764 lb)
• 104: 900 kg (1,984 lb)
• 110: 1,060 kg (2,337 lb)
• 116: 1,250 kg (2,756 lb)
• 121: 1,450 kg (3,197 lb)

These capacities are per tire and assume proper inflation and within the speed rating. Exact values and any high‑speed load adjustments are provided in tire industry charts and by manufacturers.

How to Choose the Right Load Index

Use this step‑by‑step approach to ensure the tire you pick is safe and appropriate for your vehicle and usage.

1. Check the driver’s door placard: Note the OE size, load index, speed rating, and whether the fitment calls for SL, XL, HL, or LT.
2. Match or exceed the OE load index: Never select a lower number, even if the tire looks wider or has a sportier speed rating.
3. Consider usage: If you regularly tow, haul, or drive long distances at highway speeds or on rough roads, choose a tire with 5–10% higher capacity (e.g., move from SL to XL, or from LT C to D/E) that still fits your wheels.
4. Inflation matters: Run the vehicle‑placard pressures for normal driving. For LT tires when heavily loaded, follow tire‑maker load‑and‑inflation tables and never exceed the wheel’s max pressure rating.
5. Account for EV weight and sidewall feel: Heavier EVs may need HL or XL for sufficient capacity and stability; ensure the chosen tire meets range, noise, and load needs.

Underspecifying load index can lead to excessive heat build‑up, poor handling, and failure; overspecifying mildly can improve durability but may stiffen ride and add weight or rolling resistance.

Special Cases and Terminology

P‑metric, Euro‑metric, XL, and HL

Standard Load (SL) passenger tires achieve their rated capacity at a lower inflation pressure than Extra Load (XL). HL (High‑Load) passenger tires, introduced to serve heavier vehicles such as EVs, provide higher capacity than XL at an even higher rated inflation (typically around 50–51 psi/≈350 kPa). Always ensure your wheels can safely handle the required pressures.

LT‑metric and Load Range

Light‑truck (LT) tires use Load Range letters (C/D/E/F) corresponding to higher allowable pressures (commonly ~50/65/80/95 psi) and capacities. Many LT tires show two load indices (e.g., 121/118) indicating single/dual fitments. Follow the truck’s placard and, when in doubt, manufacturer load‑inflation tables.

P‑metric on light trucks

If a P‑metric tire is used on a light truck, industry practice reduces its stated capacity by 10% to account for truck duty. This is another reason to defer to the vehicle placard and consider LT tires for sustained heavy loads.

Finding the load index

On the sidewall, it appears after the size: for example, 225/45R17 94W—“94” is the load index, “W” is the speed rating.

Bottom Line

A “good” load index is the one that matches or exceeds your vehicle’s OE specification. For many sedans that’s in the low‑90s, for crossovers around 99–104, and for larger SUVs/pickups well into triple digits or LT Load Range tires. If you haul, tow, or drive an EV, err on the higher side and maintain proper inflation—never step down from the placard’s requirement.

Summary

Choose a tire with a load index that meets or exceeds the number on your vehicle’s door placard. Typical ranges: 91–95 for sedans, 99–104 for small SUVs, 102–109 for larger SUVs, and higher or LT ranges for trucks; many EVs require 102–109 in XL/HL. The load index represents maximum per‑tire carrying capacity at the tire’s rated inflation and within its speed rating. Avoid lower indices, ensure your wheels support required pressures, and adjust upward if you frequently tow or carry heavy loads.

What load index should my tires be?

Your vehicle’s required load index is listed on the door jamb placard or in the owner’s manual. You must use a tire with the same or a higher load index than the original equipment specifications to ensure safety and proper support for the vehicle’s weight. The load index is a number on the tire’s sidewall that corresponds to a specific weight capacity for each tire.
 
How to Find the Correct Load Index

1. Check the Door Placard: Look for a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb that lists the recommended tire size and load index for your vehicle. 
2. Consult the Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will also contain detailed information on the correct tire specifications, including the load index. 
3. Read the Tire Sidewall: If your current tires are the correct size, the load index will be part of the tire’s size code (e.g., 205/55 R17 91V, where 91 is the load index). 

Why the Load Index Matters

• Safety: The load index ensures that each tire can safely support the vehicle’s weight under normal driving conditions. 
• Tire Failure: Using a tire with a load index that is too low can lead to tire failure, including issues like bubbling or a blowout, which is dangerous. 
• Vehicle Longevity: Properly rated tires are essential for the correct operation and longevity of your vehicle. 

When Buying New Tires 

• Never go lower: Always choose a replacement tire with a load index that is the same as or higher than the vehicle’s original equipment (OE) specifications.

What’s better load range, D or E?

Load range E tires support more weight at a higher maximum inflation pressure than load range D tires. Load range D tires are typically 8-ply equivalent and require a maximum inflation pressure of 65 PSI, while load range E tires are 10-ply equivalent and require up to 80 PSI. While E-rated tires offer a higher safety margin and increased stability for heavy loads, they also result in a stiffer ride and put more strain on the vehicle’s suspension.
 
Key Differences

• Load Capacity: Load range E tires are designed to carry significantly more weight per tire than load range D tires. 
• Ply Equivalent: Load range D corresponds to an 8-ply rating, while load range E is equivalent to a 10-ply rating, meaning more layers in the tire’s construction. 
• Maximum Pressure: Load range D tires require a maximum inflation pressure of 65 PSI, whereas load range E tires require a higher maximum pressure of 80 PSI. 
• Riding Experience: Load range E tires provide a stiffer, rougher ride compared to load range D tires due to the higher pressure and stronger construction. 

When to Choose Which 

• Choose Load Range D Opens in new tabif your vehicle’s weight is not at the maximum capacity and you prefer a more comfortable ride, as D tires are still capable of handling medium to larger loads.
• Choose Load Range E Opens in new tabif you frequently haul heavy loads, are operating in hot conditions, or require an increased safety margin. However, you must ensure your rims are also rated for the higher 80 PSI of the E-rated tires.

Important Considerations

• Vehicle and Rim Compatibility: Always ensure your vehicle’s wheels are rated to handle the higher pressures required by load range E tires. 
• Weight vs. Load Range: A higher load range doesn’t always mean more durability but rather a higher load and pressure capacity. Match the tire’s load range to your vehicle’s actual weight and operating conditions. 

What does load index 102 mean?

A tire load index of 102 means that the tire can support a maximum load of 1,874 pounds (850 kg) when properly inflated. This number is a standardized code; you must consult a tire load index chart to find the actual weight capacity it represents. Choosing a tire with the correct or higher load index is crucial for safely carrying your vehicle’s weight and preventing tire damage.
 
Where to find the load index 

• The load index is the two or three-digit number just before the speed rating (a letter) on the tire’s sidewall. For example, in the tire size P225/65 R17 102H, “102” is the load index.

Why it matters

• Safety: A tire with an insufficient load index cannot support the weight of the vehicle, which can lead to damage, wear, and even a blowout. 
• Vehicle Weight: The load index must meet or exceed the weight requirements for your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). 
• Performance: A higher load index means the tire can carry heavier loads, making it more robust and suitable for heavier vehicles or carrying cargo. 

How to find the load capacity

1. Locate: the load index (102) on your tire. 
2. Consult: a tire load index chart to find the corresponding weight in pounds or kilograms. For load index 102, this weight is 1,874 pounds or 850 kg. 

What does load index 115 mean?

A tire load index of 115 signifies a specific maximum load-carrying capacity, not a direct weight, and must be converted using a load index chart to find its equivalent in pounds or kilograms. For example, a load index of 115 corresponds to a capacity of 2,679 pounds (1,215 kilograms) per tire at its maximum rated inflation pressure. You should always match or exceed your vehicle’s original equipment (OE) load index to ensure the tire can safely support the vehicle’s weight. 
How to Use the Load Index:

1. Locate the load index: on your tire’s sidewall; it’s a two or three-digit number that appears after the tire’s size information and before the speed symbol. 
2. Refer to a load index chart: to find the corresponding weight for that number. 
3. Compare it to your vehicle’s requirement . 

Important Considerations:

• Safety First: A tire with a lower load index than what your vehicle requires will not be able to carry the vehicle’s weight safely, leading to potential tire failure. 
• Load Range vs. Load Index: Load index is a more precise measurement of carrying capacity than load range, which describes the tire’s construction. 
• Tire Pressure: The load index rating is valid only when the tire is inflated to its maximum rated pressure. 
• Dual Applications: On some light truck tires, you might see two load index numbers separated by a slash (e.g., 104/101). The first number is for single rear-wheel applications, and the second is for dual rear-wheel applications, where the tires share the load.