Tire size comparison
235/60R17 vs 225/65R17
225/65R17 is +1.5% taller than 235/60R17: 28.5 in vs 28.1 in (+0.41 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 225/65R17 on a vehicle set up for 235/60R17, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 60.9 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 (225/65R17 instead of 235/60R17) · 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
235/60R17 vs 225/65R17: full comparison
| 235/60R17 | 225/65R17 | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall diameter | 28.10 in | 28.52 in | +0.41 in (+1.5%) |
| Width | 9.25 in | 8.86 in | −0.39 in (−4.3%) |
| Sidewall height | 5.55 in | 5.76 in | +0.21 in |
| Circumference | 88.3 in | 89.6 in | +1.3 in |
| Revs per mile (nominal) | 718 | 707 | −10 |
| Wheel diameter | 17 in | 17 in | ±0 in |
| Diameter in mm | 714 | 724 | +10 mm |
Speedometer difference
Your speedometer is calibrated for 235/60R17. Fitted with 225/65R17, the actual speed is the reading × 28.52 ÷ 28.10.
| Speedometer shows | Actual speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 20 mph | 20.3 mph | +0.3 mph |
| 30 mph | 30.4 mph | +0.4 mph |
| 45 mph | 45.7 mph | +0.7 mph |
| 55 mph | 55.8 mph | +0.8 mph |
| 60 mph | 60.9 mph | +0.9 mph |
| 70 mph | 71.0 mph | +1.0 mph |
| 80 mph | 81.2 mph | +1.2 mph |
Real tires: published diameters
235/60R17: 27.9–28.2 in published by 7 makers; 225/65R17: 28.4–28.9 in published by 5 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.
More about each size: 235/60R17 · 225/65R17
FAQ
Which is bigger, 235/60R17 or 225/65R17?
225/65R17 is +1.5% taller than 235/60R17: 28.5 in vs 28.1 in (+0.41 in).
How much will my speedometer be off with 225/65R17 instead of 235/60R17?
The speedometer is calibrated for 235/60R17. With 225/65R17 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 60.9 mph, and 70 mph at 71.0 mph (+1.5%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.
Can I replace 235/60R17 with 225/65R17?
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.