Frequently Asked Questions
255/65R17 has a tread width of 255 millimeters, the sidewall height is 65% of the tread width, and the rim diameter is 17 inches. This tire size is typical of midsize and large SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks. The vehicles are intended for combination driving, including on-road comfort and off-road capability.
The only difference between these sizes is the measured tread width. The two tire sizes share the same sidewall height of 65% of the tread’s width and rim diameter of 17 inches. The 265/65R17 tire’s tread width is 265 millimeters, while the 255/65R17 is 255 millimeters. The widened tread on the 265/65R17 tire increases its contact with the road surface which means it offers better traction, stability and is capable of carrying larger loads. The fuel efficiency capacity of the 265/65R17 may be slightly reduced as compared to the 255/65R17 with a narrower tread.
The 255/65R17 tire size designation gives direct information about the tire’s parameters. Here, 225 is the tire’s tread width in millimeters, 65 is the sidewall height as a percentage of the tread width, or 65 percent, “R” is for “Radial” construction, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches.
No, 225 cannot replace 255 tires as the tread width differs. The 225 tire’s width is 225 millimeters, almost equal to 8.9 inches, and the 255 tire’s width is 255 millimeters, which is around 10 inches. Substituting the 255 for the 225 tires would mean narrowing the contact patch between the road and the tires.
