245 vs 235 Tires
The main difference between a tire size 245 and 235 lies in the tread width, with the 245 having a width of 245 millimeters and the 235 having a width of 235 millimeters. That means the 245 tire is 10 mm wider than the 235 tire.
235 vs 245 Tires
This table makes it easy to compare tire sizes and understand their differences.
| Tire Size 235 | Tire Size 245 |
|---|---|
| Narrower 9.25 inch tread width | Wider 9.65 inch tread width |
| More responsive handling | More stable handling |
| Slightly better fuel efficiency | Slightly more traction |
| Quieter ride with less noise | Absorbs bumps and vibrations better |
| Aesthetically sleeker profile | Aggressive, robust aesthetic |
| Can cut through snow/ice better | Added traction in mud or dirt |
| Even tread wear, longer life | Handles impacts well, durable |
| Skinnier look promotes aerodynamics | Offers more ground clearance |
Ground Clearance
A wider 245 tire provides slightly more ground clearance than a 235, which can be beneficial for off-roading or clearing obstacles.
However, this difference of just under half an inch is quite tiny and may not make a significant impact on ground clearance in most conditions. Both tires should provide adequate clearance for daily driving.
Gas Mileage
With a marginally smaller contact patch, the 235 tire offers somewhat improved fuel efficiency over the 245.
However, the effect on gas mileage is minimal with just a 10-millimeter difference in tread width. For most drivers, either tire size will deliver comparable fuel economy during daily use.
Ride Comfort
The 245 slightly larger air volume and sidewall flex can dampen vibrations better than the 235, providing more ride comfort, especially over uneven surfaces.
However, both tire sizes deliver reasonably comfortable daily driving and highway-use rides.
Aesthetics Look
Some drivers may prefer the visual appeal of the wider 245 tires, conveying a more aggressive stance. In contrast, others may favor the 235 slender profile that promotes aerodynamic efficiency.
Overall aesthetics are a matter of personal taste, with little major visual difference between the two sizes.
Handling & Stability
The 235 tire offers marginally quicker steering response and handling from its narrower tread. However, the wider 245 promotes stability and traction through turns and uneven conditions.
For most routine driving scenarios, both tires deliver reliable handling and stability.
Noise & Vibration
With a narrower tread, the 235 produces slightly less road noise, transmits fewer vibrations, and promotes a quieter ride than the 245.
However, the difference is subtle, and both tires dampen noise and vibration effectively for daily commuting.
Durability & Wear
The 235 smaller contact patch distributes wear more evenly, potentially increasing tread life slightly over the 245.
However, both tire sizes exhibit good durability and tread wear when properly maintained. Expected tread life is comparable between the two.
Adverse Conditions
The 235 skinnier tread can sometimes grip the road better than the wider 245 in snow or rain. But the 245 provides more traction through deep mud or loose dirt. Overall, both perform well in adverse conditions, with only minor differences.
Can I Replace 245 Tires With 235
Yes, you can replace 245 tires with 235 tires. The ideal rim width range for 245 tires (7.5-9.0 inches) fully overlaps with the range for 235 tires (7.0-8.5 inches), making the switch possible.
Another key factor to consider is that the aspect ratio and rim diameter of the new tires should match your current setup. If the aspect ratio or rim diameter does not match, then the overall diameter difference should stay within 3% to avoid affecting speedometer accuracy and vehicle performance.
Can You Put a 235 Tire on a 245 Rim
Yes, you can put a 235 tire on a rim designed for 245 tires. The ideal rim width range for 245 tires (7.5-9.0 inches) fully overlaps with the range for 235 tires (7.0-8.5 inches), ensuring proper fitment.
Difference Between 235 and 245 Tires
The main difference between 235 and 245 tires is the section width, with 245 tires being 10mm wider than 235 tires. This difference in width can impact various aspects of tire performance and fitment.
Can I Replace 235 Tires With 245
Yes, you can replace 235 tires with 245 tires. The ideal rim width range for 235 tires (7.0-8.5 inches) overlaps with the range for 245 tires (7.5-9.0 inches), making the switch possible.
To ensure optimal vehicle performance and accurate speedometer readings, the new tires’ aspect ratio and rim diameter should be consistent with your current configuration. If a perfect match is not possible, keep the overall diameter difference within a 3% range.
Can You Put a 245 Tire on a 235 Rim
Yes, you can put a 245 tire on a rim designed for 235 tires. The ideal rim width range for 235 tires (7.0-8.5 inches) overlaps with the range for 245 tires (7.5-9.0 inches), ensuring proper fitment.
Our Observation
After comparing the nuances between these two similar tire sizes, I’m struck by how minor the differences truly are. While the 245 is slightly wider, conferring some advantages in stability, traction, and absorbing irregularities in the road, its performance aligns closely with the narrower 235 across key areas.
I don’t see strong reasons to choose one width over the other for most daily drivers who value responsive steering, even tread wear and fuel efficiency. Unless you frequently go off-road where the 245 extra traction shines.
Either tire should suit your needs and provide a smooth, quiet ride. Ultimately, personal preference in looks may matter more than performance in deciding between these two great options.
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.