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Question

Is it okay to get tires with higher weight index?

May 6, 2017 8:30AM PDT

Hi guys,

Well as the title asks, is it okay? I own a BMW 520d (F10) 2011, came with 225/55 R17 97W tires. Now I am shopping for a new set and found a nice deal for 101W. Considering the weight index is lower, should I expect performance decrease because of this reason and I should look for 97 tires? Or am I safe getting the 101? Have been searching for my answer for quite a while and cannot seem to find it.

Thank you in advance!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Your choice at the end.
May 6, 2017 8:37AM PDT

My opinion (may not matter.) I don't see an issue going up a notch but would never test going lower.

Example back and forth is at https://community.cartalk.com/t/tire-load-ratings-do-they-matter/85578/9

So, your choice in the end but go same or one higher load would be acceptable here. "Performance" is the area I can't guess what you mean. I'm a person that wants better MPG and now more Miles per KW (I have an EVcar.) So rolling resistance and energy efficiency are things I ponder when selecting the tire if I'm not going with the maker's recs. But I would not lower the load rating. Ever.

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All right
May 6, 2017 8:43AM PDT

I understand that I must never go below the rating, what worries me is that I typically drive quite fast - up to 200 km/h. Even though the tires are rated higher than that, would the different weight index influence my grip/control on the road when driving fast? Or impact fuel consumption?

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If you follow, read tire discussions.
May 6, 2017 8:55AM PDT

Grip is about the rubber and tread then the other things. So unless you did tests I don't think we'll know from this alone.

As noted, speed rating and load rating are two different things. So that's known.

Just my view over the years is that the rubber, tread is what I feel changes my grip on the road but I don't push it much now. My answer? Your choice, but should be fine.

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Answer
101W tires
May 8, 2017 9:51AM PDT

According to me your choice are really good, 101w tires are better.