Tire Size Calculator

Calculate tire dimensions, compare tire sizes, and understand tire codes with our free tire size calculator.

Tire Size Calculator

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🚗 Understanding Tire Codes

Car tires are described by an alphanumeric code that contains important information about the tire's specifications. A typical tire code looks like: P215/65R15 95H

Tire code diagram showing the meaning of each part of a tire size code

Width (215)

The nominal section width of the tire in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall.

Aspect Ratio (65)

The ratio of the tire's height to its width, expressed as a percentage. 65 means the height is 65% of the width.

Construction (R)

R stands for Radial construction. Almost all modern passenger car tires are radial tires.

Wheel Diameter (15)

The diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire is designed to fit.

📐 How Tire Size is Calculated

Section Height

Section Height = (Aspect Ratio / 100) × Tire Width

Example: For 225/45R17: Section Height = (45 / 100) × 225mm = 101.25mm

Tire Diameter

Tire Diameter = Wheel Diameter + (2 × Section Height)

Example: For 225/45R17: Tire Diameter = 17" + (2 × 3.99") = 24.98"

Circumference

Circumference = π × Tire Diameter

Example: For 24.98" diameter: Circumference = 3.14159 × 24.98" = 78.47"

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What do the numbers on my tire mean?

The numbers indicate tire width (mm), aspect ratio (height as % of width), construction type (R=Radial), and wheel diameter (inches). For example, 225/45R17 means 225mm width, 45% aspect ratio, radial construction, 17-inch wheel.

Can I change my tire size?

Yes, but it's recommended to stay within 3% of your original tire diameter. Larger differences can affect speedometer accuracy, handling, and may cause clearance issues with your vehicle.

How does tire size affect my speedometer?

Larger tires make your speedometer read lower than actual speed, while smaller tires make it read higher. This is because speedometers calculate speed based on wheel rotations, and tire size changes the distance traveled per rotation.

What is aspect ratio?

Aspect ratio is the tire's sidewall height as a percentage of its width. A 45 aspect ratio means the sidewall height is 45% of the tire's width. Lower numbers mean shorter sidewalls (sportier), higher numbers mean taller sidewalls (more comfortable).

Should all four tires be the same size?

Generally yes, especially for all-wheel drive vehicles. Having different tire sizes can cause drivetrain damage and affect handling. Some performance cars have staggered setups (wider rear tires) from the factory, which is designed into the vehicle.

What does the "R" in tire size mean?

The "R" stands for Radial construction, which means the tire's internal cords run perpendicular to the direction of travel. Almost all modern passenger vehicle tires are radial tires, offering better handling, fuel efficiency, and durability.