What happens to the carrying capacity of a vehicle if the load index of the replacement tire is lower than what is indicated on the placard?

When the load index of a replacement tire is lower than what is specified on the vehicle's placard, the carrying capacity of the vehicle may be reduced. The load index indicates the maximum weight that a tire can safely support. Therefore, if the replacement tire has a lower load index, it cannot handle the same amount of weight as the original tires that were specified for that vehicle.

Using tires with a lower load index can lead to inadequate support for the vehicle's weight, which may compromise safety and performance. It can also affect handling and braking, increasing the risk of tire failure or accidents. Properly matching the load index to the manufacturer’s specifications is essential for maintaining the vehicle's design load capacity and ensuring its safe operation.