Tire Size 225/45r17 vs 235/45r17
The main difference between the tire sizes 225/45r17 and 235/45r17 is in their width. The 235/45r17 tire is wider by 0.39 inches (10mm), which equates to a 4.4% increase in width compared to the 225/45r17 tire. This wider profile could provide a larger contact patch with the road, influencing aspects such as grip and handling.
225/45r17 vs 235/45r17 Table
The table compares the features of tire sizes 225/45r17 and 235/45r17, along with the percentage difference between them.
| Feature | 225/45r17 | 235/45r17 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter inches | 24.97″ | 25.33 (643.3) | 0.35 (9) 1.4% |
| Width inches | 8.86″ | 9.25 (235) | 0.39 (10) 4.4% |
| Circumference | 78.45″ | 79.57 (2020.99) | 1.11 (28.27) 1.4% |
| Sidewall Height | 3.99″ | 4.16 (105.75) | 0.18 (4.5) 4.4% |
| Revolution | 807.61 | 796.32 (494.81) | -11.3 (-7.02) -1.4% |
| Rim Size | 17″ | 17″ | Same |
| Rim Width Range | 7.0-8.5″ | 7.5-9.0″ | Different |
Overall Diameter
The 225/45r17 tire has a diameter of 24.97 inches (634.3mm), while the 235/45r17 is slightly larger at 25.33 inches (643.3mm). This 1.4% increase provides more ground clearance, beneficial for off-road driving or rough terrain. However, it results in a lower speedometer reading.
Conversely, a smaller tire reduces ground clearance, risking potential damage over rough roads and giving a higher speedometer reading. The recommended diameter difference is within 3% of factory specifications to avoid major discrepancies.
Section Width
The width of the 225/45r17 tire is 8.86 inches (225mm), compared to 9.25 inches (235mm) for the 235/45r17. A wider tread width by 4.4% equates to improved traction due to the larger contact patch, especially useful for acceleration, braking, and cornering.
On the downside, wider tires may produce more road noise and lead to increased fuel consumption. A narrower tire, conversely, offers less surface area in contact with the road, reducing grip, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.
Circumference
Circumference plays a role similar to diameter. The 225/45r17 has a circumference of 78.45 inches (1992.71mm), while the 235/45r17 measures 79.57 inches (2020.99mm). A larger circumference of 1.4% will lead to lower speedometer readings, while a smaller circumference results in higher readings.
Sidewall Height
The 225/45r17 has a sidewall height of 3.99 inches (101.25mm), compared to 4.16 inches (105.75mm) for the 235/45r17 tire. The 4.4% taller sidewall acts as a buffer, absorbing more bumps and improving ride comfort.
It also provides increased traction on snowy or icy roads. A shorter sidewall, conversely, results in a harsher ride due to less cushioning, but it lends a sportier and more aggressive look to the vehicle.
Revolutions Per Mile
The 225/45r17 tire spins 807.61 revolutions per mile (501.83 per km), while the 235/45r17 completes 796.32 (494.81 per km). A tire with more revolutions per mile experiences increased wear, potentially reducing lifespan. The 1.4% lower RPM of the larger tire means less wear and tear, which could translate into a longer lifespan.
Rim Size
Both tires can be mounted on 17″ rims. The recommended rim width range for the 225/45r17 tire is between 7.0-8.5 inches, while for the 235/45r17, it’s 7.5-9.0 inches. Wider rims may result in a more aggressive, sporty look, whereas narrower rims might lend a more classic appearance to the vehicle.
How much taller is a 235/45r17 tire than a 225/45r17?
The height of a 235/45r17 tire is 25.33 inches (or 643.3 mm), and the height of a 225/45r17 tire is 24.97 inches (or 634.3 mm). Thus, the 235/45r17 tire is about 0.35 inches (or 9 mm) taller than the 225/45r17 tire.
How much wider is a 235/45r17 tire than a 225/45r17?
When looking at tire widths, the 235/45r17 tire measures 9.25 inches (or 235 mm), and the 225/45r17 tire measures 8.86 inches (or 225 mm) in width. This makes the 235/45r17 tire approximately 0.39 inches (or 10 mm) wider than the 225/45r17 tire.
Can I use 235/45r17 instead of 225/45r17?
The overall diameter of the 235/45r17 tire is 25.33 inches, while the 225/45r17 tire’s diameter is 24.97 inches. The difference between these two tires is around 0.35 inches or roughly 1.4%.
Since this percentage is lower than the 3% threshold, it is possible to use a 235/45r17 tire instead of a 225/45r17. However, it’s essential to always consult with a tire or vehicle professional to ensure safety and compatibility before making any changes.
Can I put a 235/45r17 on a 225/45r17?
The 235/45r17 tire recommends a rim width range of 7.5-9.0 inches, and the 225/45r17 tire suggests a rim width range of 7.0-8.5 inches. This means that as long as the rim falls within the shared range of 7.5-8.5 inches, it should theoretically be possible to mount a 235/45r17 tire on a rim designed for a 225/45r17.
Tire selection depends on one’s driving habits and conditions. The 235/45r17, with its larger diameter, width, and sidewall height, may offer better traction and smoother rides, especially on rough terrain or in snowy conditions. Its larger size and lower RPM could potentially enhance tire longevity.
However, the 225/45r17 tire might be preferable for urban environments with smoother roads. Its smaller size could improve fuel economy, reduce road noise, and offer a sportier aesthetic due to the shorter sidewall height.
Remember, it’s essential to consider the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire size specifications before making any changes. A tire size with too great a deviation may lead to incorrect speedometer readings and impact vehicle performance negatively.
