Tire Size 215/55r17 vs 215/50r17
Ever wondered about swapping your car’s tires? Buckle up as we dive into the nitty-gritty of switching from 215/55R17 to 215/50R17 tires. This change might seem small, but it can have big impacts on your ride!
- Slightly firmer ride due to shorter sidewall
- Potential minor reduction in fuel efficiency
- Slightly faster tire wear compared to original size
- Half-inch loss in ground clearance for off-road driving
- Potential traction reduction in loose or soft off-road terrain
Fitment Guide
In this case, switching from 215/55r17 to 215/50r17 results in a 3.2% decrease in diameter, which slightly exceeds the recommended range.
While it may be possible to use 215/50r17 tires, adjustments might be necessary to avoid rubbing or clearance issues.
On-Road Impact
Switching to a smaller tire diameter can have various effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Here are some key areas to consider:
- Speedometer Accuracy: Because the 215/50r17 tire has a smaller diameter, it will rotate more times per mile compared to the 215/55r17. This means your speedometer will read about 3.3% faster than your actual speed. At 20 mph, the speedometer would show 20 mph, but your real speed would be closer to 19.4 mph.
- Fuel Economy: The smaller tire will have your engine running at slightly higher RPMs at a given speed, which could marginally reduce fuel efficiency. However, the difference may be hardly noticeable in real-world driving.
- Ride Comfort: The shorter sidewall of the 215/50r17 tire provides less cushioning, which could result in a slightly firmer ride. You might feel bumps and road imperfections a bit more, especially on rough surfaces.
- Handling: The shorter sidewall also means less tire flex during cornering, which could provide a more responsive steering feel. However, this difference may be subtle for most drivers.
- Durability: With less rubber volume, the 215/50r17 tire might wear slightly faster than the 215/55r17, all else being equal. However, factors like tire compound, driving style, and road conditions also play significant roles in tire wear.
Off-Road Impact
If you take your vehicle off the beaten path, switching to a smaller tire size can affect your off-road capabilities in a few ways:
- Ground Clearance: The 0.85-inch reduction in overall tire diameter equates to a 0.425-inch loss in ground clearance. While half an inch might not sound like much, it could be the difference between clearing an obstacle and suffering undercarriage damage on tough trails.
- Sidewall Protection: The shorter sidewall of the 215/50r17 tire offers less protection against sharp rocks and other debris that can cause punctures or sidewall damage when venturing off-road.
- Traction: In off-road situations, a taller tire with a larger contact patch can provide better traction, especially in loose or soft terrain. The 215/55r17 tire, with its taller sidewall, may offer a slight advantage in such conditions.
215/55r17 vs 215/50r17
The table below compares two tire sizes, 215/55R17 and 215/50R17, highlighting key differences.
| Feature | 215/55R17 | 215/50R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 26.31 (668.3) | 25.46 (646.8) | -0.85 (-21.5) -3.2% |
| Width inches (mm) | 8.46 (215) | 8.46 (215) | 0 (0) 0% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 82.66 (2099.53) | 80 (2031.98) | -2.66 (-67.54) -3.2% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 4.66 (118.25) | 4.23 (107.5) | -0.42 (-10.75) -9.1% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 766.53 (476.3) | 792.01 (492.13) | 25.48 (15.83) 3.3% |
| Speedometer Difference | 20 mph | 19.36 mph | -0.64 mph |
What is the Main Difference Between 215/55r17 and 215/50r17?
The main difference is sidewall height. 215/50r17 has a 0.42 inch shorter sidewall, resulting in a tire that is 0.85 inches smaller in overall diameter compared to 215/55r17.
Can I Use 215/50r17 Instead of 215/55r17?
While possible, using 215/50r17 instead of 215/55r17 is not ideal as the diameter difference exceeds the recommended 3% range. Adjustments may be needed to avoid rubbing or clearance issues.
How Much Taller Is a 215/55r17 Tire Than a 215/50r17?
A 215/55r17 tire is 0.85 inches taller in overall diameter than a 215/50r17 tire due to its 0.42 inch taller sidewall.
Our Observation
After analyzing the differences between 215/55r17 and 215/50r17 tires, we believe that for most on-road driving, the differences in performance and comfort would be negligible to the average driver.
The 3.2% difference in diameter falls just outside the recommended 3% range, so fitment issues are unlikely on most vehicles. However, for those who frequently drive off-road or in adverse conditions, sticking with the larger 215/55r17 tire size is advisable.
The slightly taller sidewall provides better ground clearance, sidewall protection, and potential traction benefits that can make a real difference when the going gets tough.
Ultimately, the decision to switch tire sizes depends on your specific vehicle, driving habits, and preferences. We recommend consulting with a tire professional who can assess your unique situation and offer personalized guidance to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.
Asma Akter is the lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com, bringing her expertise to the automotive industry. With a strong background in technical writing and a passion for clear communication, Asma excels at breaking down complex tire-related information for readers. Her work helps consumers make informed decisions about tire sizes and compatibility, contributing to safer and more efficient vehicle operations.
