Optimal tire pressure is essential for safe and efficient driving. The following form allows you to select your car model, providing a customized table displaying the ideal tire pressure settings.
FRONT or REAR | TIRE | Speed index | Pressure (PSI) |
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Convert between PSI, BAR and Kilopascals units. Provide value in your prefered unit and get converted value:
PSI | kPa | BAR |
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The load index is basically a code that tells you the maximum weight a tire can safely support when it's properly inflated. It's that two or three digit number on the tire sidewall, right before the speed rating letter at the end.
So for example, if your tire size says 195/55R16 87V, the "87" is the load index. You'd then look that number up on a standardized chart (avilable bellow) to find out the actual weight it relates to in pounds or kilos.
In this case, an 87 load index means the tire can handle up to 545 kg or around 1,200 lbs when inflated to the recommended PSI for that tire. Go above that weight capacity, and you're overstressing the tire which could be dangerous.
The load index is handy for knowing if your tires are up for the job of hauling heavy loads or towing. A higher number means a sturdier tire that can support more weight when pumped up properly. So check that sidewall code to make sure your tires can handle what you're asking of them.
Load-Carrying Capacity Index | ||
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Load index | Load in pounds (lbs) | Load in kilograms (kg) |
Winter driving calls for some adjustments to your tire pressure. If you've got a fresh set of winter tires or some good all-season tires with deep tread, slightly increasing the pressure can actually help. The extra air lets the tires better clear out any snow, slush or mud from the contact patch as you're driving. That gives you better grip on those slippery roads.
But if your tires are getting worn down, like 4mm of tread or less, you'll want to drop the pressure a little bit instead. Having slightly lower inflation pressure makes the tire footprint wider, increasing the surface area that's grabbing the road. That extra traction can make a big difference when the roads are coated in snow and ice.
So check those tread depths first. Then adjust your pressures up for good tread, or down if the treads are getting thin. Small tweaks like that can boost your winter traction.