Tire Size 235/55r17 vs 225/55r17
Are you considering switching from 235/55R17 to 225/55R17 tires? While the difference may seem small, it’s essential to understand the potential impact on your vehicle’s performance, both on and off the road.
- Diameter difference of -1.6% falls within the acceptable range
- Width reduction may affect handling and traction
- Circumference decrease of impact speedometer accuracy
- Sidewall height reduction will slightly affect ride comfort
- Increased revolutions per mile will marginally improve fuel efficiency
- Narrower tires may provide a smoother ride on well-maintained roads
Fitment Guide
It’s crucial to ensure that the new tires’ overall diameter is within 3% of the original tires.
In this case, the diameter difference between 235/55R17 and 225/55R17 tires is -1.6%, which falls within the acceptable range. However, it’s still essential to consider the potential effects of this change.
On-Road Impact
Switching from 235/55R17 to 225/55R17 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors:
- Ride Comfort: The narrower 225/55R17 tires may slightly improve ride comfort, as they have a smaller contact patch with the road surface. This can lead to a smoother ride, especially on well-maintained roads.
- Fuel Efficiency: The narrower tires may also contribute to a minor improvement in fuel efficiency. The reduced width means less rolling resistance, which can translate to a slight increase in gas mileage.
- Handling: The narrower tires may offer a bit less lateral grip compared to the wider 235/55R17 tires. This difference may be more noticeable during aggressive cornering or in wet conditions.
- Speedometer Accuracy: The switch to 225/55R17 tires will cause a slight speedometer discrepancy. At a reading of 20 mph (32.19 km/h), your actual speed will be 19.68 mph (31.67 km/h). Keep this in mind and adjust your driving accordingly.
Off-Road Impact
If you plan to take your vehicle off-road, consider the following aspects when switching from 235/55R17 to 225/55R17 tires:
- Traction: The narrower tires may provide slightly less traction in loose or muddy terrain due to the reduced contact patch. This difference may be more apparent in challenging off-road conditions.
- Ground Clearance: The switch to 225/55R17 tires will result in a minor reduction in ground clearance, as the sidewall height decreases by 0.22 inches (5.5 mm). While this difference is minimal, it’s worth considering if you frequently tackle obstacles or uneven terrain.
- Durability: The narrower tires may be more prone to punctures or sidewall damage when faced with sharp rocks or debris. If you regularly encounter such hazards, consider the potential impact on tire durability.
235/55r17 vs 225/55r17 Table
The table below provides a side-by-side comparison between 235/55r17 and 225/55r17 tires, highlighting the key differences
| Feature | 235/55R17 | 225/55R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 27.18 (690.3) | 26.74 (679.3) | -0.43 (-11) -1.6% |
| Width inches (mm) | 9.25 (235) | 8.86 (225) | -0.39 (-10) -4.3% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 85.38 (2168.64) | 84.02 (2134.08) | -1.36 (-34.56) -1.6% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 5.09 (129.25) | 4.87 (123.75) | -0.22 (-5.5) -4.3% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 742.1 (461.12) | 754.11 (468.58) | 12.02 (7.47) 1.6% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 19.68 mph | -0.32 mph |
What is the Difference Between 235/55R17 and 225/55R17?
The main difference between 235/55R17 and 225/55R17 tires is their width. The 235/55R17 tires are 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than the 225/55R17 tires, which can affect various aspects of your vehicle’s performance.
Can I Use 225/55R17 Instead of 235/55R17?
Yes, you can use 225/55R17 instead of 235/55R17. The diameter difference is -1.6%, within the acceptable 3% range. However, the narrower width may affect handling and ride comfort.
How Much Taller Is a 235/55R17 Tire Than a 225/55R17?
A 235/55R17 tire is 0.43 inches (11 mm) taller than a 225/55R17 tire. The overall diameter of a 235/55R17 tire is 27.18 inches (690.3 mm), while a 225/55R17 tire has a diameter of 26.74 inches (679.3 mm).
How Much Wider is a 235/55R17 Tire Than a 225/55R17?
A 235/55R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 225/55R17 tire. The width of a 235/55R17 tire is 9.25 inches (235 mm), whereas a 225/55R17 tire has a width of 8.86 inches (225 mm).
Our Observation
Switching from 235/55R17 to 225/55R17 tires offers a mix of benefits and drawbacks. The narrower tires may provide a slightly smoother ride and a minor improvement in fuel efficiency on paved roads.
However, they may also result in a bit less lateral grip and traction, particularly in wet or off-road conditions.
The impact on ground clearance and speedometer accuracy is minimal and should not be a significant concern for most drivers. Ultimately, the decision to switch tire sizes depends on your specific needs, driving style, and the terrain you typically encounter.
Caitlin McCormack is a lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com and a trusted guide at AmarCalculator. With an extensive background in finance and mathematics, she simplifies complex calculations and delivers precise insights. Caitlin’s expertise ensures readers receive accurate and reliable information to make informed decisions. Her passion for numbers and dedication to clarity make her an invaluable resource for tire comparisons.
