Tire Size 215/55r17 vs 225/55r17
Upgrading your tires to a slightly wider size like going from 215/55R17 to 225/55R17 is a popular modification for many vehicle owners seeking improved traction, handling, or appearance.
- Improved lateral grip and stability during cornering
- Marginally better ride comfort due to larger contact patch
- Minor impact on fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance
- Small increase in ground clearance for off-road driving
- Enhanced traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud
- Speedometer may read slightly slower than actual speed
Fitment Guide
In the case of switching from 215/55R17 to 225/55R17, the diameter difference is 11mm (0.43 inches), which equates to a 1.6% increase. Since this falls within the acceptable range, the interchange is generally recommended.
However, it’s always wise to consult with a tire professional to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle.
On-Road Impact
Switching to wider 225/55R17 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key areas:
- Ride Comfort: The wider tires may slightly improve ride comfort by providing a larger contact patch with the road surface, which can help absorb bumps and vibrations more effectively. However, the difference may be subtle and not noticeable to all drivers.
- Handling: The increased width of the 225/55R17 tires can enhance your vehicle’s handling characteristics. Wider tires offer a larger contact area with the road, which can result in improved lateral grip and stability during cornering. This can be particularly beneficial for sportier driving styles or in wet conditions.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Due to the slightly larger diameter of the 225/55R17 tires, your vehicle’s speedometer may read slightly slower than your actual speed. At 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the speedometer will display 20.33 mph (32.72 km/h). While this difference is minimal, it’s important to be aware of it, especially when driving in areas with strict speed limits.
- Fuel Efficiency: The wider 225/55R17 tires may have a small impact on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. The increased width can lead to slightly higher rolling resistance, which means your engine may need to work a bit harder to maintain the same speed. However, the difference in fuel consumption is likely to be negligible for most drivers.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, switching to 225/55R17 tires can offer some advantages. Here’s what you can expect:
- Ground Clearance: The slightly larger diameter of the 225/55R17 tires can provide a small increase in ground clearance. The difference of 11mm (0.43 inches) may not seem significant, but it can help reduce the risk of undercarriage damage when navigating rough terrain or obstacles.
- Traction: The wider 225/55R17 tires can improve traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud. The increased contact area allows the tires to disperse the vehicle’s weight more effectively, reducing the likelihood of sinking or getting stuck. However, the actual off-road performance will also depend on the tire’s tread pattern and compound.
- Durability: Wider tires can be more resistant to punctures and cuts, as the increased surface area helps distribute impact forces more evenly. This can be particularly beneficial when driving on rocky or uneven terrain where the risk of tire damage is higher.
Can I Use 225/55r17 Instead of 215/55r17?
Yes, you can use 225/55r17 instead of 215/55r17. The diameter difference is 1.6%, which is within the 3% acceptable range for tire size changes, meaning it won’t negatively affect performance or safety.
How Much Taller Is a 225/55r17 Tire Than a 215/55r17?
A 225/55r17 tire is 0.43 inches (11 mm) taller than a 215/55r17 tire. The 215/55r17 has a diameter of 26.31 inches, while the 225/55r17 has a diameter of 26.74 inches.
How Much Wider is a 225/55r17 Tire Than a 215/55r17?
A 225/55r17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 215/55r17 tire. The 215/55r17 has a width of 8.46 inches, while the 225/55r17 has a width of 8.86 inches.
What is the Difference Between 215/55r17 and 225/55r17?
The primary difference between 215/55R17 and 225/55R17 tires lies in their width. The 225/55R17 tires are 10mm (0.39 inches) wider than the 215/55R17 tires, which translates to a 4.7% increase in width.
215/55r17 vs 225/55r17 Table
The primary difference between 215/55R17 and 225/55R17 tires is the width, with the latter being 10mm or about 0.4 inches wider.
| Feature | 215/55R17 | 225/55R17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches (mm) | 26.31 (668.3) | 26.74 (679.3) | 0.43 (11) +1.6% |
| Width inches (mm) | 8.46 (215) | 8.86 (225) | 0.39 (10) +4.7% |
| Circumference inches (mm) | 82.66 (2099.53) | 84.02 (2134.08) | 1.36 (34.56) +1.6% |
| Sidewall Height inches (mm) | 4.66 (118.25) | 4.87 (123.75) | 0.22 (5.5) +4.7% |
| Revolutions per mile (km) | 766.53 (476.3) | 754.11 (468.58) | -12.41 (-7.71) -1.6% |
| Speedo Reading | 20 mph | 20.33 mph | +0.33 mph |
Our Observation
Based on the differences between 215/55R17 and 225/55R17 tires, we believe that switching to the wider size can offer some benefits, particularly in terms of handling and off-road performance.
The increased width can provide better lateral grip and stability on the road, as well as improved traction and durability in off-road conditions.
However, it’s important to note that the differences in ground clearance, fuel efficiency, and speedometer accuracy are relatively minor and may not be noticeable to most drivers. Ultimately, the decision to switch tire sizes should be based on your specific driving needs and preferences.
If you frequently engage in spirited driving or tackle challenging off-road terrain, the wider 225/55R17 tires may be a worthwhile upgrade.
However, if your primary concern is fuel efficiency or you’re satisfied with your vehicle’s current performance, sticking with the original 215/55R17 size may be the better choice.
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.
