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Tyre Load Index: What is it and Why is it Important?

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When it comes to car maintenance, you should have an idea about various aspects of the car that need proper care and routine inspection. It is important to know certain terminologies related to car parts so that you can understand the ways to take care of a car. A special car insurance policy known as mechanical breakdown insurance helps you cover car repairs.

Tyre Load Index: Meaning and Significance

The tyre load index is a code that indicates the maximum weight a tyre can safely carry when inflated to the recommended air pressure. Tyre manufacturers use this standardised system to ensure drivers select tyres appropriate for their cars based on the vehicle weight and the load it carries.

Knowing the tyre load index becomes imperative to avoid exceeding the maximum load capacity. Overloading can:

- cause accidents

- overheat the tyre

- lead to faster tyre wear and tear

- cause premature tyre failure, which could result in loss of control of the vehicle

- increase fuel consumption due to additional weight

- strain the car frame and chassis

- make the steering wheel less responsive

- damage the car’s suspension and make the ride rough

- increase the possibility of tyre blowouts, which could be risky

- damage the transmission and drivetrain of the vehicle

Also, exceeding the tyre load index can make the brakes less effective and cause the vehicle to struggle on slopes while accelerating.

How to Find Vehicle Tyre Load Index?

Typically, manufacturers mention the tyre load index on the tyre sidewall as a two or three-digit number. This number corresponds to a particular weight capacity (in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb)) specified in the tyre load index chart. For instance, a tyre load index of 101 implies the maximum weight capacity is 825kg or 1819lb. The tyre load index is usually followed by the letter W and mentioned after the tyre size code, with an oblique (/) between them. For instance, in the tyre code, 225/55R17 101W, 101 indicates the tyre load index.

Conclusion

Make sure you thoroughly read through your vehicle owner’s manual or the placard in the driver door jamb to know the tyre load index. Additionally, it’s necessary to have financial safety in the form of a car insurance policy. While third party car insurance is mandatory, comprehensive insurance (Link title :Comprehensive Car Insurance starting at Rs 2094 | Buy/Renew @Best Price Online) is better for protection against third-party liabilities and damages to your vehicle.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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