Tire size comparison
215/60R17 vs 225/55R17
225/55R17 is −1.5% shorter than 215/60R17: 26.7 in vs 27.2 in (−0.41 in), and 0.4 in wider. With 225/55R17 on a vehicle set up for 215/60R17, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 59.1 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 (225/55R17 instead of 215/60R17) · 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
215/60R17 vs 225/55R17: full comparison
| 215/60R17 | 225/55R17 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 27.16 in | 26.74 in | −0.41 in (−1.5%) |
| Width | 8.46 in | 8.86 in | +0.39 in (+4.7%) |
| Sidewall height | 5.08 in | 4.87 in | −0.21 in |
| Circumference | 85.3 in | 84.0 in | −1.3 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 743 | 754 | +11 |
| Wheel diameter | 17 in | 17 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 690 | 679 | −10 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 215/60R17. Fitted with 225/55R17, the actual speed is the reading × 26.74 ÷ 27.16.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 19.7 mph | −0.3 mph |
| 30 mph | 29.5 mph | −0.5 mph |
| 45 mph | 44.3 mph | −0.7 mph |
| 55 mph | 54.2 mph | −0.8 mph |
| 60 mph | 59.1 mph | −0.9 mph |
| 70 mph | 68.9 mph | −1.1 mph |
| 80 mph | 78.8 mph | −1.2 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
215/60R17: 27.1–27.5 in published by 4 makers; 225/55R17: 26.5–27.1 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: 215/60R17 · 225/55R17
Related comparisons
FAQ
Which is bigger, 215/60R17 or 225/55R17?
225/55R17 is −1.5% shorter than 215/60R17: 26.7 in vs 27.2 in (−0.41 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 225/55R17 instead of 215/60R17?
The speedometer is calibrated for 215/60R17. With 225/55R17 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 59.1 mph, and 70 mph at 68.9 mph (−1.5%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 215/60R17 with 225/55R17?
The diameter difference is −1.5%. 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.