Tire Size Calculator

Tire Size Calculator

Tire Diagram

Enter tire size (e.g., 265-70R17):

-R

Calculator Size Tools of Tire Size Calculator

 

How to use Tire Size Calculator tools?

Follow these step-by-step instructions to get the information you need:

1.Locate Your Current Tire Size:

Check the sidewall of your current tires to find the size printed on them. It will look something like this: 265-70R17. This number includes the tire width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter.

2.Input Your Current Tire Size:

   In the calculator, enter the following details:

    Width: The first number (e.g., 265).

    Aspect Ratio: The second number (e.g., 70).

    Rim Diameter: The last number (e.g., 17).

3.Click "Tire Size Calculate"

Once you've entered your tire size, click the button to calculate. This will process your input and display the recommended tire sizes.

  

What do the numbers in a tire size mean?

For example, in a tire size 265-70R17:

  • 265 is the width of the tire in millimeters
  • 70 is the aspect ratio (height of the tire's cross-section to its width)
  • R means it's a radial tire
  • 17 is the wheel diameter in inches

Why is tire size important?

Tire size affects your vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. The right size ensures proper fit and function.

How does changing tire size affect my vehicle?

Changing tire size can impact your speedometer accuracy, ground clearance, and overall driving characteristics. For instance, moving from a smaller size to 265-70R17 might increase your vehicle's ground clearance and alter its handling. Always consult your vehicle's manual or a professional before changing tire sizes.

What is the significance of revolutions per mile?

Revolutions per mile indicates how many times a tire rotates in one mile. This affects your vehicle's gearing, speedometer reading, and overall performance. A 265-70R17 tire will typically have fewer revolutions per mile compared to smaller sizes, which can affect your speedometer reading if not properly calibrated.

  

More Information about Tire Size

Aspect Ratio

Definition: The aspect ratio is the ratio of the tire's height to its width, expressed as a percentage. For example, in the tire size 265-70R17, the "70" indicates that the height of the tire is 70% of its width (265 mm).

Impact: A lower aspect ratio (e.g., 50) generally indicates a shorter sidewall, which can improve handling and stability at high speeds. However, it may result in a harsher ride over bumps. A higher aspect ratio (e.g., 70) offers more cushioning and comfort but may compromise handling slightly.

Aspect Ratio Comparison Table

Aspect RatioSidewall HeightCharacteristics
30-50Low ProfileBetter handling, less comfortable ride, more susceptible to rim damage
55-65Mid ProfileBalance between handling and comfort
70-80High ProfileMore comfortable ride, better for off-road, slightly less responsive handling

Load Index / Load Chart

Definition: The load index indicates the maximum weight a tire can support when properly inflated. It is often found next to the tire size on the sidewall.

Impact: Choosing a tire with an appropriate load index is crucial for safety and performance. Using a tire with a lower load index than required can lead to tire failure or decreased handling.

Load Index Table (1-150) / Load Chart Table (1-150)

Load IndexMax Load (kg)Max Load (lbs)Load IndexMax Load (kg)Max Load (lbs)Load IndexMax Load (kg)Max Load (lbs)
146102511954311018241816
248105522014431028481869
349108532074561038721923
450111542134691048981979
552115552194831059242037
653118562264971069512097
755121572325121079792158
8571255823952710810072221
9581295924654210910372286
10601326025355811010672352
11621366126057411110982421
12641406226859111211302492
13651446327660811311632565
14671486428462611411972639
15691536529264411512322717
16711576630166311612682796
17731626731068211713052878
18761676831970211813432962
19781716932872311913833048
20801767033774412014233137
21821827134776612114643229
22851877235778812215073323
23871927336881112315513420
24901987437983512415973520
25922047539085912516433623
26952107640188412616913728
27982167741391012717413837
281012227842593712817913949
291042297943796412918444065
301072358045099213018984183
3111024281463102113119534305
3211324982477105113220104431
3311625683491108213320694561
3412026484505111313421294694
3512327285520114613521914831
3612728086535117913622554972
3713128887550121313723215117
3813429688566124913823895266
3913830589583128513924595420
4014231490600132314025305578
4114632391618136214126045741
4215133292636140114226805909
4315534293654144214327596082
4416035294673148414428396259
4516436295693152814529226442
4616937396713157214630076630
4717438497734161814730956824
4817939598755166514831867023
4918440699777171414932797228
50190418100800176415033747439

Note: This table shows load indexes from 1 to 150. The load capacity increases by approximately 2.92% for each increment in the load index.

Speed Rating

Definition: The speed rating is a letter that indicates the maximum speed a tire can safely maintain over time. Common ratings include P (up to 93 mph), Q (up to 99 mph), and Z (over 149 mph).

Impact: Selecting a tire with a suitable speed rating is essential for safe driving, especially if you drive at higher speeds. Using a tire with a lower rating than your vehicle's capabilities can increase the risk of blowouts.

Speed Rating Table

Speed SymbolMax Speed (km/h)Max Speed (mph)
L12075
M13081
N14087
P15093
Q16099
R170106
S180112
T190118
U200124
H210130
V240149
W270168
Y300186
(Y)300+186+

Note: '(Y)' indicates speeds over 300 km/h (186 mph) where the exact maximum speed should be specified by the tire manufacturer.

Considerations When Changing Tire/Wheel Size

Changing tire or wheel size can be motivated by various factors, often including aesthetic preferences. However, it's crucial to take several considerations into account to avoid potential negative consequences, such as increased wear on the vehicle's suspension and brake components (especially anti-lock brakes), which can affect handling and lead to other mechanical issues, including those with the transmission.

1. Compatibility of Tire and Rim Sizes

Different tire sizes can fit the same rim, provided the center diameter matches. A common modification is increasing rim size. When doing so, it's essential to adjust the tire size accordingly; larger rims typically require thinner tires to ensure they fit within the vehicle's wheel well. It is generally recommended that new tires have a diameter within 3% of the factory-recommended tires to maintain performance and safety.

2. Reasons for Changing Tires

Apart from aesthetic upgrades, tires are often replaced due to blowouts or general wear and tear. Ideally, all tires should be changed simultaneously. If that's not feasible, at least replace the front or rear tires together, depending on which tire needs replacing. If only one or a few tires are changed, it's crucial to use the same type and brand to avoid issues like loss of control, inaccurate speedometer readings, or damage to the vehicle's stability system.

3. Impact on Speedometer and Odometer

Changing tire sizes affects the accuracy of the speedometer and odometer, which are calibrated based on the original tire specifications. Larger tires increase the overall circumference, leading to lower speedometer and odometer readings than the actual speed and distance traveled. Conversely, smaller tires may result in higher readings. This discrepancy can lead to potential legal issues and affect driving safety.

While it's possible to safely change tire and wheel sizes, doing so requires careful consideration of compatibility, performance implications, and how it affects vehicle systems. It is always good to consult a professional.