Tire Size 235/45r18 vs 245/45r18
Are you considering upgrading your vehicle’s tires from 235/45R18 to 245/45R18? While the difference in size may seem minimal, it can have various effects on your driving experience. This article will explore the key differences between these tire sizes and help you make an informed decision.
- The overall diameter difference is within the acceptable range of 3%.
- The tire width increases by 0.39 inches (10 mm), which is a 4.3% change.
- The sidewall height increases by 0.18 inches (4.5 mm), also a 4.3% difference.
- The speedometer reading will be slightly affected, with a 0.27 mph (0.43 km/h) difference at 20 mph.
235/45r18 vs 245/45r18 Table
The main difference between tire sizes 235/45r18 and 245/45r18 is in the section width. The 245/45r18 is wider by 0.39 inches (10mm). This difference affects various performance characteristics.
Fitment Guide
The overall diameter difference between 235/45R18 and 245/45R18 tires is 0.35 inches (9 mm) or 1.3%, which falls within the acceptable range of 3%.
This means that switching from 235/45R18 to 245/45R18 tires is generally recommended without requiring significant adaptations to your vehicle.
On-Road Impact
Switching from 235/45R18 to 245/45R18 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s explore some of the key aspects:
- Ride Comfort: The slightly taller sidewall of 245/45R18 tires may provide a marginally smoother ride, as the extra cushioning can absorb more road imperfections. However, the difference may be barely noticeable to most drivers.
- Handling: The wider tread of 245/45R18 tires can offer improved lateral grip, particularly during cornering. This can result in better handling and increased stability, especially in dry conditions. However, the difference may be less pronounced in wet or slippery conditions.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Due to the slightly larger overall diameter of 245/45R18 tires, your vehicle’s speedometer may read 0.27 mph (0.43 km/h) slower than your actual speed at 20 mph (32.19 km/h). This difference is minimal and unlikely to cause any significant issues.
- Fuel Economy: The wider tread and slightly heavier weight of 245/45R18 tires may result in a minor decrease in fuel economy compared to 235/45R18 tires. However, the difference is likely to be negligible for most drivers.
Off-Road Impact
If you plan to take your vehicle off-road, switching from 235/45R18 to 245/45R18 tires can offer some advantages:
- Ground Clearance: The slightly taller sidewall of 245/45R18 tires can provide a marginal increase in ground clearance, which may be beneficial when navigating uneven terrain or obstacles. However, the difference of 0.18 inches (4.5 mm) is relatively small and may not be noticeable in most off-road situations.
- Traction: The wider tread of 245/45R18 tires can offer improved traction on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, or mud. The increased contact patch can help distribute the vehicle’s weight more evenly, reducing the risk of getting stuck. However, the effectiveness of this advantage depends on the specific tire tread pattern and composition.
What is the Difference Between 235/45r18 and 245/45r18?
The main difference between 235/45r18 and 245/45r18 tires is the width. The 245/45r18 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than the 235/45r18 tire, which represents a 4.3% increase in width.
This difference in width can affect various aspects of vehicle performance, such as handling, ride comfort, and tire clearance. The overall diameter of the 245/45r18 tire is also slightly larger than the 235/45r18 tire by 0.35 inches (9 mm), or 1.3%.
Can I Use 245/45r18 Instead of 235/45r18?
Yes, you can use 245/45r18 tires instead of 235/45r18 tires. The overall diameter difference between these two tire sizes is 1.3%, which falls within the generally accepted range of 3%.
This means that switching from 235/45r18 to 245/45r18 tires should not cause any significant issues with vehicle handling, speedometer accuracy, or tire clearance.
However, it is always recommended to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult with a professional to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
How Much Taller Is a 245/45r18 Tire Than a 235/45r18?
A 245/45r18 tire is 0.35 inches (9 mm) taller than a 235/45r18 tire. The overall diameter of the 235/45r18 tire is 26.33 inches (668.7 mm), while the 245/45r18 tire has a diameter of 26.68 inches (677.7 mm).
This difference in height is relatively small, representing a 1.3% increase in overall diameter.
How Much Wider is a 245/45r18 Tire Than a 235/45r18?
A 245/45r18 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 235/45r18 tire. The width of the 235/45r18 tire is 9.25 inches (235 mm), while the 245/45r18 tire has a width of 9.65 inches (245 mm).
This difference in width represents a 4.3% increase, which can have an impact on various aspects of vehicle performance and handling.
Our Observations
After considering the differences between 235/45R18 and 245/45R18 tires, we believe that switching to the wider tire size can offer some benefits, particularly in terms of handling and off-road traction. However, the overall impact on ride comfort, fuel economy, and ground clearance may be minimal and hardly noticeable to most drivers.
It’s essential to keep in mind that while the 1.3% difference in overall diameter falls within the acceptable range, there may be some vehicles with limited clearance that could experience rubbing or other fitment issues. Always consult your vehicle’s manufacturer or a trusted tire professional before making any changes to your tire size.
Ultimately, the decision to switch from 235/45R18 to 245/45R18 tires depends on your specific needs, driving style, and vehicle setup. If you prioritize improved handling and off-road traction, the wider tires may be a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you’re satisfied with your current tire size and don’t require the potential benefits, sticking with 235/45R18 tires may be the more practical choice.
Meet Caitlin McCormack, a Tire Size Expert and Blogger Passionate About Everything Related to Tires. With Years of Experience in the Tire Industry, Caitlin Has Become an Expert in Tire Sizes and Their Impact on Vehicle Performance.