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Tire with digital pressure gauge and subtle load scale icons—tire inflation pressure vs load calculator hero

Inflation Pressure vs Load Calculator

Estimate Pressure for Your Target Load

Enter tire details and your desired supported load. We estimate the cold inflation pressure needed. Never go below the vehicle placard or above the tire/wheel limits. A change of ~5 psi can markedly affect load capacity.

Size is recorded for your notes; calculation uses load index or sidewall max load.
P-metric uses TRA reference pressures; LT uses load-range reference pressure and your sidewall “Max Load Single”.
If unknown, leave blank and enter “Max load per tire” from the sidewall below.
In pounds (or switch to kg below).
Typical P-metric SL = 35 psi; XL = 41 psi.
Per-tire, axle, or vehicle depending on selection above.
Adds extra capacity to account for variability (cargo, temp, speed).
Result
Recommended cold inflation
—
Not below vehicle placard; not above tire/wheel limits.
Per-tire required load
—
Includes reserve capacity.
Assumed reference
—
P-metric SL/XL or LT Load-Range reference psi.
Max load (per tire)
—
From load index or your sidewall entry.
Notes
  • This tool assumes a linear load-to-pressure relationship up to the reference pressure (TRA table anchor). Real tables are stepped; use this as an estimate.
  • Do not exceed the tire’s sidewall max pressure or the wheel’s PSI rating.
  • Under-inflation causes heat build-up and potential failure. A change of ~5 psi can significantly alter load capacity.
Need help? Contact a fitment specialist · Shop tires: Buy_Tires · Payment options: Financing · More tech info: Tech Information

Key Takeaways

  • Inflation drives load capacity. Higher pressure (within limits) supports more load; under-inflation builds heat and can cause failure.
  • Use the placard. Never set pressures below the vehicle manufacturer placard; adjust only when load and tire class require.
  • Reference pressures differ. P-metric SL typically anchors at ~35 psi, XL around ~41 psi; LT tires use Load-Range references (50/65/80/95 psi).
  • 5 psi matters. Small pressure changes can meaningfully change capacity—recheck before trips, towing, or heavy cargo.

Next Steps

Shop Tires Financing Talk to a Fitment Specialist More Tech Information
Reviewed by the Performance Plus Tire Fitment Team
This calculator provides an estimate based on linear interpolation to the TRA reference point. Always follow the vehicle placard and tire/wheel manufacturer limits. For precise applications (LT/commercial, towing, RV), consult official load-inflation tables or contact us.
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