Tire size comparison
205/55R17 vs 215/55R17
215/55R17 is +1.7% taller than 205/55R17: 26.3 in vs 25.9 in (+0.43 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 215/55R17 on a vehicle set up for 205/55R17, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 61.0 mph. That is within the ±3% difference many shops use as a rule of thumb (not a manufacturer or legal limit).
Set up for: checking a replacement size (215/55R17 instead of 205/55R17) · Different situation?
Your current size
e.g. 265/70R17, 2657017 or 33x12.50R20
Where do I find my size?
It's on the tire sidewall, e.g. P265/70R17 115T, and on the tire placard sticker on the driver's door jamb (also in the owner's manual). The placard shows the size the vehicle came with; the sidewall shows what is fitted now. If they differ, use the placard as your starting point. Digits are enough here: 2657017 or 33125020.
Size you're considering
205/55R17 vs 215/55R17: full comparison
| 205/55R17 | 215/55R17 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 25.88 in | 26.31 in | +0.43 in (+1.7%) |
| Width | 8.07 in | 8.46 in | +0.39 in (+4.9%) |
| Sidewall height | 4.44 in | 4.66 in | +0.22 in |
| Circumference | 81.3 in | 82.7 in | +1.4 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 779 | 767 | −13 |
| Wheel diameter | 17 in | 17 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 657 | 668 | +11 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R17. Fitted with 215/55R17, the actual speed is the reading × 26.31 ÷ 25.88.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 20.3 mph | +0.3 mph |
| 30 mph | 30.5 mph | +0.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 45.8 mph | +0.8 mph |
| 55 mph | 55.9 mph | +0.9 mph |
| 60 mph | 61.0 mph | +1.0 mph |
| 70 mph | 71.2 mph | +1.2 mph |
| 80 mph | 81.3 mph | +1.3 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
205/55R17: 25.7–26.2 in published by 3 makers; 215/55R17: 26.1–26.6 in published by 7 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 205/55R17 · 215/55R17
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 205/55R17 or 215/55R17?
215/55R17 is +1.7% taller than 205/55R17: 26.3 in vs 25.9 in (+0.43 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 215/55R17 instead of 205/55R17?
The speedometer is calibrated for 205/55R17. With 215/55R17 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 61.0 mph, and 70 mph at 71.2 mph (+1.7%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 205/55R17 with 215/55R17?
The diameter difference is +1.7%. Whether it fits depends on things this calculation can't see: wheel width and offset, clearance at full lock and over bumps, load index and speed rating, and your vehicle maker's approval. Check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional.