Tire Size 245/75r17 vs 255/75r17
Changing from a 245/75r17 to a 255/75r17 tire means opting for a slightly wider and larger tire. Understanding these changes helps you make an informed decision for your driving needs.
- The 255/75R17 has a slightly larger diameter for improved ground clearance.
- A wider tire enhances traction on various surfaces.
- The increased sidewall height may provide better comfort on rough roads.
- The larger circumference can improve performance during highway driving.
- Fuel efficiency may decrease slightly due to the increased tire size.
Fitment Guide
Replacement tires must be within 3% of the original tire’s overall diameter. In this case, the diameter difference is +1.9%, which is within the acceptable range.
This means the interchange is recommended and should not require significant adaptations. However, it’s always a good idea to check for adequate clearance to prevent any potential rubbing or fitment issues.
On-Road Impact
Switching tire sizes can significantly influence your daily driving experience. Here’s what to expect when you’re on the road:
Gas Mileage
Upgrading to a wider tire like the 255/75r17 can slightly reduce gas mileage. The increased width leads to higher rolling resistance, which means your vehicle may consume more fuel, especially during highway driving where efficiency is crucial.
Ride Comfort
The 255/75r17 has a slightly taller sidewall by 0.3 inches. This provides a bit more cushioning, potentially offering a smoother ride. However, the wider tire might also make the ride feel less supple compared to the narrower option.
Speedometer Accuracy
A larger tire diameter affects your speedometer readings. For example, when your speedometer reads 20 mph, your actual speed is about 20.38 mph.
This slight overestimation means you could unknowingly drive faster than intended, so it’s important to be mindful of the difference.
Durability & Wear
The 255/75r17 tire, being wider, may experience increased wear on the edges if not properly aligned. Ensuring regular maintenance and alignment checks can help mitigate premature tire wear.
Additionally, the larger size might contribute to greater stress on your vehicle’s suspension components over time.
Aesthetics Look
A wider tire like the 255/75r17 can give your vehicle a more aggressive and robust appearance. The increased width fills out the wheel wells better, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. If you prefer a bold look, this change can significantly improve your vehicle’s stance.
Off-Road Impact
Changing tire sizes also affects how your vehicle handles off the beaten path. Here’s how the switch influences off-road performance:
Ground Clearance
Switching to the 255/75r17 slightly increases ground clearance by 1.14 inches. This can be beneficial when navigating over rocks, logs, or uneven terrain, reducing the risk of undercarriage damage and improving overall off-road capability.
Traction
The wider 255/75r17 tires provide a larger contact patch with the ground, enhancing traction on loose surfaces like mud or sand.
This improvement can lead to better handling and stability when driving off-road, making your vehicle more capable in challenging conditions.
Vehicle Capability
A larger and wider tire can improve your vehicle’s towing and hauling capacity. The increased diameter and width offer better support and stability when carrying heavy loads or climbing steep inclines, enhancing overall vehicle capability both on and off the road.
Aesthetics Look
Upgrading to the 255/75r17 not only improves performance but also enhances your vehicle’s visual appeal. The wider and larger tires give your car a more rugged and commanding presence, making it stand out on the road.
This aesthetic upgrade can be a significant factor for those looking to make a style statement with their vehicle.
245/75r17 vs 255/75r17
This table compares the key features of tire sizes 245/75R17 and 255/75R17.
| Feature | 245/75R17 | 255/75R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 31.47 (799.3) | 32.06 (814.3) | 0.59 (15) 1.9% |
| Width inches (mm) | 9.65 (245) | 10.04 (255) | 0.39 (10) 4.1% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 98.86 (2511.08) | 100.72 (2558.2) | 1.86 (47.12) 1.9% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.23 (183.75) | 7.53 (191.25) | 0.3 (7.5) 4.1% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 640.9 (398.24) | 629.09 (390.9) | -11.81 (-7.34) -1.8% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph (32.19 km/h) | 20.38 mph (32.79 km/h) | +0.38 mph |
Difference Between 245/75R17 and 255/75R17
The main difference is width; the 255/75R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than the 245/75R17 tire, providing a broader contact patch.
Can I Use 255/75R17 Instead of 245/75R17?
Yes, you can use a 255/75R17 tire instead of a 245/75R17, as the diameter difference is only 1.9%, which is within the recommended 3% threshold for safe tire changes.
How Much Taller Is a 255/75R17 Tire Than a 245/75R17?
The 255/75R17 tire is 0.59 inches (15 mm) taller than the 245/75R17, representing a 1.9% increase in overall diameter.
How Much Wider is a 255/75R17 Tire Than a 245/75R17?
The 255/75R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than the 245/75R17, offering a 4.1% increase in width.
Our Observation
Switching from 245/75r17 to 255/75r17 offers a balanced mix of benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, the wider tires provide enhanced traction and a more aggressive look, which can improve both on-road handling and off-road performance.
The slight increase in ground clearance and better vehicle capability are advantageous for those who enjoy off-roading or need to tow heavy loads.
However, the increased width can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and potential fitment challenges, although the diameter difference remains within the recommended 3% limit.
Additionally, the larger tires may cause speedometer inaccuracies and increased wear if not properly maintained. For everyday on-road driving, some of these effects may be negligible, but off-road enthusiasts might find the benefits outweigh the shortcomings.
Ultimately, the decision to switch depends on your specific driving needs and whether the improvements in performance and aesthetics align with your priorities.
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.
