Tire Size to Wheel Equivalence
This serves as a general guide for tire compatibility with different wheel widths. While specific sizes may vary depending on the tire and wheel manufacturer, this reference provides a basic idea of how a tire might fit on a particular wheel size.
Wheel Width | Minimum Tire Width | Ideal Tire Width | Maximum Tire Width |
---|---|---|---|
5.0 Inches | 155 mm | 165 or 175 mm | 185 mm |
5.5 Inches | 165 mm | 175 or 185 mm | 195 mm |
6.0 Inches | 175 mm | 185 or 195 mm | 205 mm |
6.5 Inches | 185 mm | 195 or 205 mm | 215 mm |
7.0 Inches | 195 mm | 205 or 215 mm | 225 mm |
7.5 Inches | 205 mm | 215 or 225 mm | 235 mm |
8.0 Inches | 215 mm | 225 or 235 mm | 245 mm |
8.5 Inches | 225 mm | 235 or 245 mm | 255 mm |
9.0 Inches | 235 mm | 245 or 255 mm | 265 mm |
9.5 Inches | 245 mm | 255 or 265 mm | 275 mm |
10.0 Inches | 255 mm | 265 or 275 mm | 285 mm |
10.5 Inches | 265 mm | 275 or 285 mm | 295 mm |
11.0 Inches | 275 mm | 285 or 295 mm | 305 mm |
11.5 Inches | 285 mm | 295 or 305 mm | 315 mm |
12.0 Inches | 295 mm | 305 or 315 mm | 325 mm |
12.5 Inches | 305 mm | 315 or 325 mm | 335 mm |
Guidelines for Tire and Wheel Compatibility
Maintain Consistent Tire Diameter:
Always use tires with an external diameter that matches or is slightly smaller than the original specifications.
Speedometer Accuracy:
Ensure the speedometer does not show a speed lower than the actual speed. Between 25 and 75 mph, it is acceptable for the speedometer to display up to 10% higher than the actual speed.
Load Capacity:
Choose tires with a load index equal to or higher than the original tires to ensure proper weight support.
Speed Rating:
Use tires with a speed rating equal to or greater than the original tires. Exceptions apply to winter tires—refer to specific regulations for details.
Wheel Compatibility:
Confirm that the wheel width and diameter are appropriate for the selected tire size.
Special Considerations for SUVs and ABS/ASR Systems:
For vehicles with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) or anti-slip systems (ASR), ensure that front and rear tire dimensions are compatible. The rolling circumference (distance traveled per rotation) must align to avoid performance issues.
Avoid Mechanical Interference:
Verify that any changes in tire or wheel dimensions will not cause mechanical issues, such as insufficient clearance or protrusion beyond the vehicle body.