Tire Tech & Tips
Your complete resource for tire and wheel knowledge. Learn how to choose the right tires, maintain them properly, and get the most out of your investment.
Quick Guides
Essential knowledge for every tire and wheel buyer
Interactive Tools
Calculate tire sizes, speedometer corrections, and plus sizing options
Speedometer Calculator
See how changing tire size affects your speedometer reading
Original Tire Size
265/70R17
31.61" diameter
New Tire Size
285/70R17
32.71" diameter
Diameter Difference
+1.10"
Speedometer Error
+3.5%
Your speedometer will read SLOWER than actual speed. At a displayed 60 mph, you're actually going 62.1 mph.
| Speedometer Shows | Actual Speed | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 30 mph | 31.0 mph | +1.0 mph |
| 45 mph | 46.6 mph | +1.6 mph |
| 60 mph | 62.1 mph | +2.1 mph |
| 70 mph | 72.4 mph | +2.4 mph |
| 80 mph | 82.8 mph | +2.8 mph |
Revolutions per Mile
Original: 638
New: 617
Circumference
Original: 99.3"
New: 102.8"
Plus Sizing Calculator
Find equivalent tire sizes when upgrading to larger wheels
Your Current Tire Size
225/60R17
Original Size
27.6" ⌀
135mm sidewall
What is Plus Sizing?
Plus sizing means increasing wheel diameter while decreasing tire sidewall height to maintain the same overall diameter. This improves handling and appearance without affecting speedometer accuracy.
- Plus Zero: Same rim, wider tire
- Plus One: +1" rim diameter
- Plus Two: +2" rim diameter
- Plus Three: +3" rim diameter
Recommended Plus Sizes
These sizes maintain similar overall diameter (±3%)
235/55R17
27.2" diameter
129mm sidewall
-1.6% difference
245/55R17
27.6" diameter
135mm sidewall
-0.1% difference
235/50R18
27.3" diameter
118mm sidewall
-1.4% difference
245/50R18
27.6" diameter
123mm sidewall
+0.1% difference
255/45R18
27.0" diameter
115mm sidewall
-2.2% difference
245/45R19
27.7" diameter
110mm sidewall
+0.2% difference
255/40R19
27.0" diameter
102mm sidewall
-2.2% difference
265/40R19
27.3" diameter
106mm sidewall
-1.0% difference
255/35R20
27.0" diameter
89mm sidewall
-2.2% difference
265/35R20
27.3" diameter
93mm sidewall
-1.2% difference
275/35R20
27.6" diameter
96mm sidewall
-0.2% difference
Plus Sizing Tips
- ✓Keep overall diameter within 3% of original for accurate speedometer
- ✓Lower profile tires improve handling but ride firmer
- ✓Check fender clearance before going wider
- ⚠More than Plus Two may require suspension modifications
Tire Types Explained
Understanding different tire categories helps you choose the right one
All-Season Tires
Versatile year-round performance for everyday driving
- ✓Good in rain and light snow
- ✓Long tread life
- ✓Quiet ride
Best for: Daily commuters in mild climates
All-Terrain Tires
Balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability
- ✓Handles dirt and gravel
- ✓Good highway manners
- ✓Aggressive look
Best for: Truck owners who go off-road occasionally
Mud-Terrain Tires
Maximum traction in challenging off-road conditions
- ✓Excellent in mud and rocks
- ✓Self-cleaning tread
- ✓Durable sidewalls
Best for: Serious off-roaders and trail enthusiasts
Highway Tires
Optimized for smooth, quiet highway driving
- ✓Excellent fuel economy
- ✓Long lasting
- ✓Very quiet
Best for: Highway commuters and long-distance drivers
Performance Tires
Enhanced grip and handling for spirited driving
- ✓Superior cornering
- ✓Excellent braking
- ✓Responsive handling
Best for: Sports cars and performance enthusiasts
Winter Tires
Designed specifically for snow and ice
- ✓Stays flexible in cold
- ✓Bites into snow
- ✓Shorter stopping distance
Best for: Drivers in areas with harsh winters
Tire Maintenance Tips
Keep your tires in top shape and extend their life
Check Tire Pressure Monthly
Proper inflation improves fuel economy, tire life, and safety. Check when tires are cold.
Rotate Every 5,000-7,500 Miles
Regular rotation ensures even wear and maximizes tire life. Follow your vehicle's rotation pattern.
Inspect Tread Depth
Use the penny test: if you can see Lincoln's head, it's time for new tires. Replace at 2/32" depth.
Check Alignment Annually
Misalignment causes uneven wear and poor handling. Get checked after hitting potholes or curbs.
Balance When Installing
Unbalanced tires cause vibration and premature wear. Rebalance if you feel vibration at highway speeds.
Store Tires Properly
Keep seasonal tires in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Store mounted tires flat or hanging.
Common Tire Sizes by Vehicle
Quick reference for popular vehicle categories
| Vehicle Type | Common Sizes |
|---|---|
| Compact Car | 195/65R15, 205/55R16 |
| Midsize Sedan | 215/55R17, 225/50R18 |
| Full-Size Sedan | 225/55R17, 235/50R18 |
| Compact SUV | 225/65R17, 235/60R18 |
| Midsize SUV | 245/60R18, 265/50R20 |
| Full-Size SUV | 275/55R20, 285/45R22 |
| Half-Ton Truck | 265/70R17, 275/60R20 |
| 3/4-Ton Truck | 275/70R18, 285/60R20 |
| Sports Car | 225/45R17, 245/40R18 |
Not sure what size fits your vehicle? Use our fitment tool to find the exact sizes for your year, make, and model.
From Our Blog
In-depth guides and expert recommendations
All-Terrain vs Mud-Terrain Tires: Which Should You Choose?
Compare all-terrain (AT) and mud-terrain (MT) tires to find the right choice for your truck or SUV. Learn the differences in traction, noise, tread life, and more.
Best All-Season Tires in 2026: Top Picks for Every Budget
Find the best all-season tires for cars, SUVs, and trucks. We compare top-rated tires for performance, comfort, and value with expert recommendations.
Best All-Terrain Tires for Trucks in 2026
Find the best all-terrain tires for your truck. We compare top AT tires for on-road comfort and off-road capability, plus buying tips and size recommendations.
Best Tires for Rain and Wet Roads in 2026
Find the best tires for wet weather driving. Our expert picks for hydroplaning resistance, wet braking, and rainy condition performance.
Best Wheels for Lifted Trucks in 2026: Complete Guide
Discover the top wheel options for lifted trucks in 2026. From aggressive off-road styles to street-inspired designs, find the perfect wheels for your lifted F-150, Silverado, RAM, or Jeep.
Bolt Pattern Guide: How to Measure and Find Your Bolt Pattern
Learn how to measure your wheel bolt pattern, understand common sizes like 5x114.3 and 6x139.7, and find wheels that fit your vehicle perfectly.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Tires?
Use our fitment tool to see exactly what fits your vehicle, with guaranteed compatibility.
Questions? Call us at (248) 332-4120