Tyre Pressure When Fully Loaded: Full Load PSI
A practical guide to tyre pressure fully loaded for UK drivers, from the CarPal mobile tyre team.
Why load changes your pressures
Tyre pressure exists to support weight. Add four passengers and a boot full of luggage and you have added a few hundred kilograms, most of it over the rear axle. The same pressure that was correct for an empty car is now under-inflated for a loaded one.
That is why your door sticker lists two sets of figures: normal load and full load. The full-load rear pressures in particular are usually noticeably higher.
Finding your full-load pressures
Look at the sticker inside the driver’s door frame, or the fuel filler flap, or the handbook. It will typically be laid out as a small table with tyre size down one side and load conditions across the top.
If there is only one set of figures, that is your pressure for all conditions. Some manufacturers do it that way, especially on smaller cars.
Towing
Towing loads the rear axle heavily through the towball, so use the full-load rear pressures at minimum. Check your handbook, since some vehicles specify a separate towing pressure.
The trailer or caravan has its own pressures, printed on its plate or in its handbook — do not assume they match the car.
Remember to change them back
This is the bit people forget. Running full-load pressures on an empty car gives you a harsh ride, reduced grip in the wet and accelerated centre tread wear.
If you set higher pressures for a holiday, reset them when you unload.
Frequently asked questions
Should I increase tyre pressure when carrying passengers?
Yes, if your car specifies full-load pressures. Check the door sticker rear pressures in particular usually increase.
What pressure should I use for towing?
At minimum the full-load rear figures. Check your handbook, as some vehicles specify separate towing pressures.
Do I need to change pressure back after unloading?
Yes. Running loaded pressures on an empty car reduces grip and wears the centre of the tread.
Where do I find full load tyre pressures?
On the driver’s door frame sticker, the fuel filler flap, or in the owner’s handbook.
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