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. This 10-millimeter difference affects various performance factors, although the variation between these similar tire sizes is relatively minor.

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’s 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’s 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’s 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’s 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.

Are 235 And 245 Tires Interchangeable?

If there is an overlap in the rim width specifications for both 235 and 245 tires, you can substitute the 235 tires with 245 tires, provided that the vehicle’s rims are within the suggested width range for the 245 tire size.

The advised rim width range for 235 tires is between 6.5 and 8.5 inches, while for 245 tires, it is between 7 and 8.5 inches. Given the overlapping ranges, 235 and 245 tires can be interchanged based on rim width considerations.

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’s 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.

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