Can i run tires with a lower load rating?

New_m3 · 06-15-2010, 02:26 PM

I’m interested in getting a set of Bridgestone potenza RE050A, however they have a load rating of 94. The stock Michelin ps2's have a load rating of 98.

Does anyone know what the difference is, or how it will affect the car?

New_m3 · 06-17-2010, 12:47 PM

hmm, anyone?

R A W L S · 06-17-2010, 03:06 PM

I'm no expert but I've noticed heavier load rating tires don't roll as much in cornering during track events as lower load rating tires. During daily driving I haven't noticed much difference between lower and higher ratings. I would check that 94 meets bmw recommended standards.

**ben@tirerack** · 06-17-2010, 03:29 PM

Yes, it is ok to do. 94 load index tires carry maximum 1477 lbs per tire, supporting rear gross axle weight up to 2954 lbs (that's rear axle only, not whole vehicle).

For handling reasons, I would not recommend mixing tires. If you put something different on the rear, you should put the same brand and style of tire on the front too. If you only replace two, stick with the same tire that is on the front.

06-15-2010, 02:26 PM	#1
New_m3 Second Lieutenant 20 Rep 246 Posts Drives: E92 M3 Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: UK iTrader: (0)	Can i run tires with a lower load rating? I’m interested in getting a set of Bridgestone potenza RE050A, however they have a load rating of 94. The stock Michelin ps2's have a load rating of 98. Does anyone know what the difference is, or how it will affect the car?
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06-17-2010, 12:47 PM	#2
New_m3 Second Lieutenant 20 Rep 246 Posts Drives: E92 M3 Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: UK iTrader: (0)	hmm, anyone?
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06-17-2010, 03:06 PM	#3
R A W L S R A W L S 17 Rep 164 Posts Drives: 1997 M3 Join Date: May 2010 Location: _____________________ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 M3 [0.00]	I'm no expert but I've noticed heavier load rating tires don't roll as much in cornering during track events as lower load rating tires. During daily driving I haven't noticed much difference between lower and higher ratings. I would check that 94 meets bmw recommended standards.
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06-17-2010, 03:29 PM	#4
ben@tirerack M3Post Supporting Vendor 87 Rep 964 Posts Drives: 740i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: South Bend, IN iTrader: (0)	Yes, it is ok to do. 94 load index tires carry maximum 1477 lbs per tire, supporting rear gross axle weight up to 2954 lbs (that's rear axle only, not whole vehicle). For handling reasons, I would not recommend mixing tires. If you put something different on the rear, you should put the same brand and style of tire on the front too. If you only replace two, stick with the same tire that is on the front. __________________ _______________________________________________ I have accepted a new position at Tire Rack and am no longer in the sales department. gary@tirerack.com is available to assist with M3 questions.
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