What Does 96W Mean on a Tire?
The “96W” on a tire sidewall is the tire’s load index and speed rating. The load index “96” indicates the maximum weight the tire can safely carry when properly inflated.
The speed rating “W” shows the maximum speed the tire is designed to sustain under optimal conditions. Understanding these ratings is important for selecting tires that match your vehicle’s specifications and performance requirements.
What is the Load Index?
The load index is a number that tells you how much weight each tire can support when properly inflated. On passenger car tires, you’ll find it right before the letter for the speed rating. In our example of 96w, “96” is the load index.
Each number corresponds to a specific weight in pounds. A load index of 96 means the tire can carry up to 1,565 pounds at maximum air pressure. The higher the number, the greater the load capacity. Most passenger cars will have a load index between 75 and 100.
It’s crucial to use tires with a load index that matches or exceeds what your vehicle manufacturer recommends. This ensures your tires can handle the weight of your car and its cargo. You can find the minimum load index for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or on a placard inside the driver’s side door.
What About the Speed Rating?
While the load index tells you how much weight the tire can carry, the speed rating indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely maintain. On the sidewall, you’ll see it as a letter after the load index.
Common ratings for passenger vehicles range from S (112 mph) to Y (186 mph), with some tires exceeding 186 mph getting a “(Y)” rating.
In our 96w example, “w” is the speed rating. A tire with a “w” rating can safely handle speeds up to 168 mph. It’s important to note that this isn’t a recommended cruising speed—it’s the maximum speed the tire can handle for short periods in ideal conditions.
As with the load index, consult your owner’s manual or tire information placard to find the recommended speed rating for your car. It’s best to match or exceed the manufacturer’s recommendation.
While it might be tempting to choose a lower speed rating for a softer ride or better fuel economy, tires with lower speed ratings often have longer stopping distances and reduced handling capabilities.
Maintaining Your Tires
To ensure your tires perform at their best and last as long as possible, maintain them properly with regular checks and service:
- Check tire pressure monthly and before long trips, adjusting as needed to match the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for your vehicle.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear.
- Check tread depth regularly and replace tires when they reach the minimum safe depth (usually 2/32 inch).
- Have tires balanced and aligned as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer to optimize handling and minimize uneven wear.
By understanding what tire load index and speed rating mean, choosing the right tires for your vehicle and driving needs, and practicing proper tire maintenance, you can ensure a safer, more comfortable ride while maximizing tire life and performance.
Putting It All Together
So, what does “96w” on a tire actually mean? It tells us the tire has a load index of 96 (1,565 pounds per tire) and a speed rating of w (168 mph). This information helps us choose tires that can safely support the weight of our vehicle and handle the speeds we drive.
When shopping for new tires, always look for ones that meet or exceed your car’s specifications for size, load index, and speed rating. Your tire dealer can help you find tires that are right for your vehicle and driving needs.
Remember, while it’s important to understand what the codes on your tires mean, there’s no substitute for proper tire maintenance.
Regularly check your tire pressure, rotate your tires, and replace them when they wear out. Following these simple steps will help keep you safe on the road and extend the life of your tires.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.