MAX. LOAD AND MAX. INFLATION

Maximum load and inflation molding (for passenger car tires) indicate the maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load.

EXAMPLE:
MAX. LOAD 990 kg (2183 LBS.) AT 280 kPa (41 psi) MAX. PRESS.

The Alpha-Numeric tire sizing system shows specific load range symbols on the sidewall that indicate how much load the tire is designed to carry at a defined pressure. Most Alpha-Numeric sized tires are Load Range B, meaning that they are restricted to the load that can be carried with a maximum inflation pressure of 32 psi. For greater load-carrying capacity, C, D, or E tires can be used provided the wheels can carry the increased load and pressure. Otherwise new wheels are required.

Note: Most load range C, D, and E tires are for light truck applications. These load-carrying capacity designations will appear directly after the size of the tire as in the example below:

EXAMPLE:
LT235/75R15/C

The load carrying capacity of P-Metric tires is rated either Standard Load or Extra Load. Standard Load tires are limited by the load that can be carried with a maximum inflation pressure of 35 psi. Extra Load tires are limited by the load that can be carried with a maximum inflation pressure of 41 psi. An Extra Load tire (for example P235/75R15XL) will be branded with "Extra Load. A Standard Load tire does not bear any special designations.

Note: A standard load tire with a normal inflation pressure of 35 psi may be branded with a maximum inflation of 44 or 51 psi, indicating the tire's ability to meet special vehicle performance requirements. It does NOT increase the tire's load capacity. An extra load tire with a normal inflation pressure of 41 psi may be branded with a maximum inflation of 50 psi indicating the tire's ability to meet special vehicle performance requirements. It does not increase the tires load capacity.