Tire Size 255/70r18 vs 285/70r17
Thinking about upgrading your tires? Switching from 255/70r18 to 285/70r17 could transform your driving experience. Let’s delve into how this change might impact your vehicle.
- Wider tire offers better traction and stability on the road.
- Increased sidewall height enhances ride comfort and off-road capabilities.
- Larger overall diameter improves ground clearance for rough terrains.
- Reduced revolutions per mile may lead to minor speedometer inaccuracy.
- Wider tread enhances handling but may increase road noise slightly.
- Increased tire width may lead to reduced fuel efficiency.
- Taller sidewalls can better absorb impacts, enhancing comfort.
- Larger and wider tires provide a more aggressive and rugged aesthetic look.
Fitment Guide
Before swapping tires, it’s crucial to ensure the new size falls within a 3% diameter difference of the original. Our comparison shows a 2% difference, making this interchange acceptable.
However, exceeding the 3% threshold isn’t recommended, as it may cause rubbing or clearance issues that necessitate modifications.
On-Road Impact
How does this tire swap affect your daily commute? Let’s explore the on-road implications of switching to 285/70r17 tires.
Gas Mileage
Switching to wider 285/70r17 tires increases rolling resistance, which can slightly decrease fuel efficiency. The broader surface area requires more energy to move, potentially lowering gas mileage by a small margin.
Ride Comfort
The taller sidewall of the 285/70r17 tires absorbs road imperfections better, providing a smoother ride on paved surfaces. This enhanced cushioning can improve overall driving comfort during daily commutes.
Speedometer Accuracy
The 2% increase in tire circumference means your speedometer may read slightly slower than your actual speed. When your speedometer shows 20 mph, you’re actually traveling at 20.41 mph. While minor, it’s important to be aware of this discrepancy.
Aesthetic Look
The wider and slightly larger 285/70r17 tires give your vehicle a more aggressive stance. This upgrade can enhance the visual appeal, making your vehicle stand out on the road.
Off-Road Impact
For those who venture off the beaten path, tire performance is critical. Here’s how the switch affects off-road driving.
Traction
The wider tread of the 285/70r17 tires increases contact with the terrain, improving traction on loose surfaces like mud, sand, and gravel. This enhancement boosts off-road performance significantly.
Ground Clearance
With a slightly larger diameter, the 285/70r17 tires raise your vehicle by approximately 0.33 inches. This increase in ground clearance helps navigate obstacles more effectively during off-road excursions.
Durability & Wear
The larger sidewall height provides better protection against punctures and cuts from sharp objects off-road. Additionally, the tire’s construction may offer improved durability under rugged conditions.
Vehicle Capability
The enhanced traction and ground clearance expand your vehicle’s off-road capabilities. However, the increased size may require adjustments to avoid rubbing or clearance issues with suspension components.
255/70r18 vs 285/70r17
This table compares the key features of the 255/70R18 and 285/70R17 tire sizes.
| Feature | 255/70R18 | 285/70R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 32.06 (814.2) | 32.71 (830.8) | 0.65 (16.6) +2% |
| Width inches (mm) | 10.04 (255) | 11.22 (285) | 1.18 (30) +11.8% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 100.7 (2557.88) | 102.76 (2610.04) | 2.05 (52.15) +2% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 7.03 (178.5) | 7.85 (199.5) | 0.83 (21) +11.8% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 629.17 (390.95) | 616.60 (383.14) | -12.57 (-7.81) -2% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 20.41 mph | +0.41 mph |
Difference Between 255/70R18 and 285/70R17
The primary difference is width: the 285/70R17 tire is 30 mm (1.18 inches) wider than the 255/70R18, offering more road contact for improved traction.
Can I Use 285/70R17 Instead of 255/70R18?
Yes, you can use 285/70R17 tires instead of 255/70R18. The diameter difference is 0.65 inches (2%), within the recommended 3% tolerance, but ensure the wider tire fits your vehicle’s wheel wells.
How Much Taller Is a 285/70R17 Tire Than a 255/70R18?
The 285/70R17 tire is 0.65 inches (16.6 mm) taller in diameter than the 255/70R18, resulting in a slightly larger overall size.
How Much Wider Is a 285/70R17 Tire Than a 255/70R18?
The 285/70R17 tire is 30 mm (1.18 inches) wider than the 255/70R18, providing increased road contact for better grip and handling.
Our Observation
Switching from 255/70r18 to 285/70r17 tires offers notable benefits, particularly for off-road enthusiasts. The wider and taller tires enhance traction and ride comfort, both on and off the road.
The slight increase in ground clearance improves obstacle navigation, and the aggressive look adds aesthetic appeal. However, the increased width and diameter may marginally affect fuel efficiency and speedometer accuracy.
On-road, these differences are often negligible, with minimal impact on daily driving. Off-road, the benefits generally outweigh the drawbacks, as improved performance is more noticeable.
It’s essential to ensure the new tires fit without causing rubbing or clearance issues. Overall, the switch is acceptable within the 3% diameter difference guideline and can enhance your vehicle’s performance and appearance.
Sabrina Khan Tisha, a lead writer at Tiresizecompare.com, brings a wealth of experience to her role. As the CEO of amarcalculator.com, she oversees a platform offering diverse calculation tools. Sabrina’s background in HR and office management, coupled with her numerous certifications, informs her approach to content creation. Her leadership and expertise contribute significantly to the automotive and calculation sectors.
