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Free tire rating guide

Tire Load & Speed Guide — Index Charts Explained

Decode the load index and speed rating on your sidewall — check your tire can handle your car’s weight and speed.

Load index chart Speed rating chart Safety check 100% free

Check Your Tire Ratings

Enter your sidewall markings.

—
Max load per tire
—
—
Speed rating limit—
Load safety margin—
Min. load index needed—
Never fit tires with a lower load index or speed rating than stock — it’s a safety downgrade that can void insurance in a crash.

Load Index Chart

IndexMax LoadIndexMax LoadIndexMax Load
80992 lb901,323 lb1001,764 lb
841,102 lb941,477 lb1041,984 lb
881,235 lb981,653 lb1082,205 lb
911,356 lb991,709 lb1122,469 lb
951,521 lb1021,874 lb1162,756 lb

Speed Rating Chart

RatingMax SpeedTypical Use
S112 mphFamily sedans, older cars
T118 mphMost sedans & minivans
H130 mphSport sedans, coupes
V149 mphPerformance cars
W / Y168 / 186 mphHigh-performance

Key Rules

  • Load index: total of 4 tires must exceed GVWR with margin — the tool above checks this.
  • Speed rating: match or exceed stock. A lower rating overheats at sustained speed.
  • XL marking: Extra Load — reinforced sidewalls for heavier vehicles, needs higher PSI.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is load index on a tire?

The number after the size (e.g. 95 in 225/60R16 95H) — it codes the maximum weight each tire can carry. 95 = 1,521 lb per tire.

What does H mean on a tire?

H is the speed rating — safe up to 130 mph sustained. Never downgrade below your car’s stock rating.

Can I use a higher load index than stock?

Yes — higher is always safe (stiffer ride possible). Lower than stock is never acceptable.

Do I need XL tires?

If your car came with XL (Extra Load), replace with XL — standard tires can’t safely carry the same weight at the same pressure.

What happens if my tires are under-rated?

Overheating, blowouts under load, and potential insurance denial after a crash. Always meet or exceed stock ratings.

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  • Home
  • EV Battery Blog
    • Solid-State Batteries
    • Battery Basics
    • Brand Specific Batteries
    • Chemistry
    • EV Charging
    • Lithium-Ion Batteries
  • EV Calculators
    • Home Charging Cost Calculator
    • EV Charging Time Calculator
    • EV vs Gas Cost Calculator
    • US EV Tax Credit Eligibility Checker
    • Best EV Finder Quiz
  • Car Calculators
  • EV News