Tire Size 305/70r17 vs 315/70r17
While this tire size change may seem minor, it’s essential to understand the implications before making the switch. We’ll explore the differences between these two tire sizes and how they can impact your vehicle’s performance, both on and off the road.
- Wider tires can improve traction, handling, and off-road performance
- Speedometer accuracy and fuel efficiency may be minimally affected
- Increased ground clearance can be beneficial for off-road driving
- The overall impact of switching tire sizes is relatively minor
305/70r17 vs 315/70r17
Fitment Guide
In the case of switching from 305/70R17 to 315/70R17, the diameter difference is 1.6%, which falls within the acceptable range.
This means that you can safely make the switch without needing any adaptations to prevent rubbing or clearance issues.
On-Road Impact
Upgrading to wider 315/70R17 tires can have several effects on your vehicle’s on-road performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most significant changes you may notice:
- Improved Traction: Wider tires provide a larger contact patch with the road surface, resulting in improved traction and stability, especially during cornering and braking.
- Enhanced Handling: The increased width of 315/70R17 tires can lead to better handling and responsiveness, as the tires can more effectively transmit the driver’s inputs to the road.
- Speedometer Accuracy: Due to the slightly larger diameter of 315/70R17 tires, your vehicle’s speedometer may read slightly lower than your actual speed. At 20 mph (32.19 km/h), the actual speed would be 20.33 mph (32.71 km/h). However, this difference is minimal and should not cause any significant concerns.
- Fuel Efficiency: Wider tires can slightly increase rolling resistance, which may lead to a minor decrease in fuel efficiency. However, the difference in fuel consumption between 305/70R17 and 315/70R17 tires is likely to be negligible in most driving conditions.
Off-Road Impact
If you frequently take your vehicle off-road, switching to 315/70R17 tires can provide several benefits:
- Increased Ground Clearance: The slightly taller 315/70R17 tires can provide an additional 0.28 inches (7 mm) of ground clearance, which can be beneficial when navigating rough terrain or obstacles.
- Improved Traction: The wider tread of 315/70R17 tires can offer better traction on loose surfaces like sand, mud, or gravel, enhancing your vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
- Enhanced Durability: Wider tires can better distribute the vehicle’s weight, potentially leading to improved durability and wear resistance when tackling challenging off-road conditions.
What is the Main Difference Between 305/70r17 and 315/70r17?
The main difference between 305/70R17 and 315/70R17 tires is the width. 315/70R17 tires are 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than 305/70R17 tires.
Can I Use 315/70r17 Instead of 305/70r17?
Yes, you can use 315/70R17 tires instead of 305/70R17 tires. The diameter difference of 1.6% is within the acceptable range of plus or minus 3% for tire replacement.
How Much Taller is a 315/70r17 Tire Than a 305/70r17?
A 315/70R17 tire is 0.55 inches (14 mm) taller than a 305/70R17 tire. The overall diameter of a 315/70R17 tire is 34.36 inches, compared to 33.81 inches for a 305/70R17 tire.
How Much Wider is a 315/70r17 Tire Than a 305/70r17?
A 315/70R17 tire is 0.39 inches (10 mm) wider than a 305/70R17 tire. The width of a 315/70R17 tire is 12.4 inches, while a 305/70R17 tire has a width of 12.01 inches.
Our Observations
After considering the differences between 305/70R17 and 315/70R17 tires, we believe that making the switch can offer several benefits, both on and off the road.
The increased width and slightly taller size of 315/70R17 tires can improve traction, handling, and ground clearance, making them an attractive option for drivers who want to enhance their vehicle’s performance.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the differences between these two tire sizes are relatively minor, and the impact on factors like fuel efficiency and speedometer accuracy may be negligible in most driving situations.
Ultimately, the decision to switch from 305/70R17 to 315/70R17 tires depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize improved traction, handling, and off-road capabilities, making the switch could be a worthwhile investment for your vehicle.
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.