Can I change the load index or speed rating?
You must not use a load index or speed rating below the one recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. However, you can choose a higher load index or speed rating. This can be particularly useful if you want to improve the robustness or performance of your vehicle.
Example: If your vehicle has tyres with a load index of 91 (615 kg) and a speed rating of V (240 km/h), you can replace them with tyres with a load index of 92 (630 kg) or 93 (650 kg) and a speed rating of W (270 km/h) or Y (300 km/h), but never a lower rating.
Load index and speed rating for all-season tyres
If you choose all-season tyres, it is important to meet the same load and speed requirements. However, if the all-season tyres carry the M+S (Mud and Snow) or 3PMSF (3 Peak Mountain Snowflake) marking, you are permitted to go one speed rating lower than your summer or original tyres.
For example, if your vehicle uses 215/55R16 91V summer tyres, you can replace them with 215/55R16 91H all-season tyres, as the 3PMSF marking allows this exception. You can still choose tyres with a higher speed rating if you wish.
Conclusion: choosing your tyres carefully
Choosing the right tyres is about more than size. Load index and speed rating are equally important to your vehicle's safety and performance. Make sure you meet the ratings recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, but you can choose higher ratings if you want to improve your tyres' capabilities. If in doubt, consult your vehicle handbook or the label inside the door for the exact tyre specifications.
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Speed rating: another important specification
The speed rating is a letter code indicating the maximum speed a tyre can safely support. This code is not about the speed at which you drive, but the tyre's ability to withstand the forces involved in travelling at high speeds, particularly during acceleration, braking and cornering.
For example, on a tyre marked 215/55R16 91V, the letter V corresponds to a speed rating of 240 km/h. This means the tyre can support a maximum speed of 240 km/h without risk of failure.
As with load index, it is essential to meet the speed rating recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. However, you can fit tyres with a higher speed rating than originally specified. For example, if your vehicle requires tyres with a speed rating of V (240 km/h), you can choose tyres rated W (270 km/h) or Y (300 km/h).
Speed rating chart
When choosing tyres for your vehicle, it is crucial to consider more than size alone. The load index and speed rating marked on the sidewall also play a key role in your vehicle's safety and performance. These codes tell you the load capacity and maximum speed each tyre can support. Here is a complete guide to understanding these ratings and choosing the right tyres.
What is the load index?
The load index is a number code indicating the maximum weight each tyre can support. This code helps ensure that the tyre can carry the weight of the vehicle and its occupants without compromising safety.
For example, on a tyre marked *215/55R16 91V*, the number *91* is the load index. According to the load index chart, an index of *91* means that each tyre can support a maximum load of 615 kg.
It is important to meet the load index recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Using tyres with a lower load index could overload the tyre, increasing the risk of premature wear, failure or an accident. You can, however, fit tyres with a higher load index. For example, if the original load index is 91, you can choose tyres with a load index of 92, 93 and so on.
Load index chart
Everything you need to know about tyre load index and speed rating: a complete guide to choosing your tyres
