LOAD INDEX on tyres

[rajinder_1]

Hi Guys,

I need to buy some tyres for my 96 C180, i have nerver noticed before but the load index is different on different tyres...

the ones i am lookink at are 225/40/18 88w, does the load index matter (88)?
I lknow that the w donates the speed rating which i know is ok as the C180 is not going to get to 150mph....

anyone help

Thanks in advance

Raj

 

[EDZ649]

Im not sure about the '88' but normally XL or extra load tyres are only used if you do a lot of towing like a caravan for instance and then it would probably be on the rears only.

 

[st13phil]

I assume (perhaps dangerously!) that the Load Index value on car tyres works similarly to that for motorcycle tyres. If so, then as long as the Load Index value on the tyre you wish to fit is equal to or greater than the Load Index value on the same size OE-fitment tyre, you should be OK. If it's less then it could be a problem.

Edit: Why not ask a reputable tyre specialist (i.e. not some spotty twerp at Kwik-Fit)?

 

[Fady]

There's a direct relationship between the speed rating and the load index so you need to make sure that both of these are correct for your car. The load index relates to the axle weight on each tyre - so 88 actually corresponds to a weight in kg (there's a cross-reference table to convert load index codes to weight), and the speed rating of W (you say 150 mph max) is only going to be valid if the load index is not exceeded.

 

[mirras]

Tyre Load Ratings