The 235/55R17 tire has an overall diameter of approximately 27.2 inches, a section width of roughly 9.3 inches, and is designed to be mounted on a 17-inch diameter rim. The equivalent tire size in the high flotation system is 27.2×9.3R17.
What does 235/55r17 Tire mean?
You see numbers and letters on the sidewall of a tire. What do they mean? They’re actually a detailed description of the tire’s size, type, and performance characteristics. Let’s break down the 235/55r17 tire code in a table below:
| Tire Number | Its Explanation |
| 235 | This is the tire’s width in millimeters (mm) from sidewall to sidewall. It means the tire is 235mm wide. |
| 55 | This is the aspect ratio. It represents the height of the tire sidewall as a percentage of the tire’s width. So, a 55 means the height is 55% of the 235mm width. |
| R | The “R” stands for Radial, which is the construction type of the tire. Radial tires are the most common type, where the internal ply cords are positioned in a radial direction, perpendicular to the axis of rotation. |
| 17 | This is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches that the tire is designed to fit. A 17 means the tire is designed to fit a 17-inch rim. |
What is 235/55r17 Tire in inches?
So, we have broken down the code. Now, let’s do some converting and find out the dimensions of a 235/55r17 tire in inches, since inches are a more familiar measure for many of us.
1 inch is approximately 25.4mm. By using this information, we can convert the tire code into inches.
Table for 235/55r17 in Inches and Millimeters
Here is a handy table that represents the tire’s dimensions in both inches and millimeters. We will cover the tire’s diameter, section width, rim height, sidewall height, circumference, and the number of revolutions per mile (or kilometer). All figures are approximate.
| Measurement | Inches | Millimeters |
| Tire Diameter | 27.17 | 690 |
| Section Width | 9.25 | 235 |
| Rim Height | 17 | 432 |
| Sidewall Height | 5.08 | 129 |
| Circumference | 85.25 | 2165 |
| Revolutions/Mile | 743 | N/A |
- Tire Diameter: This is the overall diameter of the tire. Think of it as the height of the tire from the ground to the top.
- Section Width: The tire’s width from one sidewall to the other. It’s like measuring how broad the tire’s smile is!
- Rim Height: This is the diameter of the wheel rim that the tire fits onto.
- Sidewall Height: This is the height of the tire’s sidewall, from the rim to the tread. Think of it as the tire’s profile from the side view.
- Circumference: This is the distance around the outer edge of the tire.
- Revolutions per Mile: This is how many times the tire will rotate in one mile.
Tire Width of 235/55r17
The tire width of a 235/55r17, as the number suggests, is 235mm. Converted to inches, that’s around 9.25. This is like the shoulder width of a small bulldog; compact, yet solid enough to take on the world!
This width ensures that the tire has a robust contact patch with the road, enabling it to ‘bite’ the asphalt effectively. It’s the width of this ‘bite’ that allows your car to handle and respond effectively to your steering inputs. With a 235mm width, your tire is neither too wide to cause excessive road noise and fuel consumption, nor too narrow to compromise on grip and stability. It’s right in the Goldilocks zone!
Tire Height of 235/55r17
The height of the 235/55r17 tire, also known as the tire’s diameter, is around 27.17 inches or 690 mm. This diameter is larger than a regulation-sized basketball! Just imagine your car rolling along on four basketballs – that’s the size we’re talking about. A larger diameter usually means better ride comfort and improved handling, particularly at higher speeds.
Sidewall Height of 235/55r17
The sidewall height of a 235/55r17 tire, derived from the aspect ratio, is approximately 5.08 inches or 129 mm. This is about the same height as a standard deck of playing cards!
A thicker sidewall height can provide better protection against potholes and other road imperfections. It’s the tire’s personal buffer zone – like an introvert’s personal space at a party. It helps absorb shocks and bumps, ensuring a smoother ride for you and your passengers.
Rim Diameter for 235/55r17
The 235/55r17 tire is designed to fit on a 17-inch rim, which equates to approximately 432 mm. This measurement is the diameter of the wheel itself, not including the tire. That’s around the same size as a large pizza, just less delicious. So next time you’re ordering pizza, you might want to contemplate your rims too. Although, remember, your rims might not go well with extra cheese!
Tire Circumference of 235/55r17
The circumference of a 235/55r17 tire is approximately 85.25 inches or 2165 mm. Imagine a hula hoop that size; it’s not something you’d want to throw your hip out on!
The tire’s circumference plays a crucial role in calculating the tire’s revolutions per mile. With this circumference, your tires make around 743 revolutions in one mile. This number can influence speedometer accuracy, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.
What are the Best 235/55r17 Tires?
Choosing the best tire for your vehicle can feel like finding the best flavor of ice cream – it largely depends on personal taste, but a few crowd favorites always rise to the top. After extensive research, here are our top three picks for the best 235/55r17 tires:
1- Milestar MS932 235/55R17 99V
Designed for all-season performance, the Milestar MS932 tire offers a blend of impressive design, superior comfort, and remarkable handling. It’s the all-rounder you need, capable of adapting to both wet and dry road conditions.
Key Features
- Wide circumferential ribs improve stability, handling, and lateral grip.
- Optimized tread pattern reduces road noise for a quiet ride.
- Siping enhances wet performance and provides biting edges for light snow traction.
Pros
- Outstanding all-weather traction
- Long-lasting tread life
- Comfortable and quiet ride
Cons
- May struggle with deep snow and icy conditions
2 – Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 235/55R17 99H
The Starfire Solarus AS tire is designed to provide a smooth ride with controlled handling, and quality, all-season traction. It’s like having an all-weather coat for your vehicle, providing comfort and protection in a range of conditions.
Key Features
- Deep, lateral shoulder slots for excellent wet traction.
- Spiral nylon overwrap improves tire uniformity and balance.
- Strategically placed siping and channeling offer excellent all-weather performance.
Pros
- Reliable all-weather grip
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Excellent value for the money
Cons
- Tread life may not be as long as some competitors
3 – Hankook Ventus S1 noble Performance Radial Tire – 235/55R17 99H
The Hankook Ventus S1 noble is a premium ultra-high-performance all-season tire that provides efficient water evacuation, offering better wet handling and braking. It’s the high-end sports car of the tire world, promising a premium experience and top-notch performance.
Key Features
- Wide steel belt layer for better dry and wet handling.
- Equilibrium carcass line design minimizes tire deformation and allows greater sidewall stiffness.
- High grip silica compound offers higher performance in winter conditions.
Pros
- Superior performance on wet and dry roads
- Enhanced cornering and braking abilities
- Durable and robust for extended tread life
Cons
- Could be a bit noisy at higher speeds
Final Recommendation: If you’re on a budget and want an all-rounder, the Milestar MS932 tire is an excellent choice. However, if you value a smooth, quiet ride and don’t mind replacing tires a bit more often, the Starfire Solarus AS could be the best fit. For those seeking premium performance and willing to spend a bit more, the Hankook Ventus S1 noble is the way to go.
FAQ’s About 235/55r17 Tire
In the vibrant world of tires, questions are as common as air in a tire’s tube (which, by the way, is crucial!). So, let’s tread into the most frequently asked questions about the 235/55r17 tire:
What vehicles use 235/55r17 Tire?
The 235/55r17 tire size is commonly used in a wide variety of vehicles, including but not limited to sedans, crossovers, SUVs, and some minivans. This tire size is often seen on popular models like Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota RAV4, among others. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of tires – versatile, dependable, and widely applicable!
How many revolutions per mile does a 235/55r17 have?
A 235/55r17 tire makes approximately 743 revolutions per mile. That’s like running nearly 15 laps around a standard athletics track in just one mile of driving. Go, tire, go!
Price of 235/55r17 inches Tire?
Tire prices can fluctuate depending on the brand, model, and features of the tire. As of my last update in September 2021, the average price range for a new 235/55r17 tire could be anywhere from $100 to $200 per tire. Remember, investing in good-quality tires is like investing in good shoes – it’s worth the initial outlay for the comfort and performance.
What kind of rim does a 235/55r17 tire fit on?
The 235/55r17 tire is designed to fit on a 17-inch rim. It’s like finding the perfect size hat for your head – it needs to be just right for the best fit and performance.
How much air should be in 235/55r17?
The recommended tire pressure can vary based on the vehicle’s weight and the tire’s design. However, most 235/55r17 tires will have a recommended tire pressure of between 30 to 35 PSI (Pound-force per square inch). Always check your vehicle’s owner manual or the sticker inside the driver’s side door for the recommended tire pressure for your specific vehicle.
What is a 235/55r17 equivalent to?
In terms of other tire sizes, a 235/55r17 might be comparable to a 215/60r17 or a 255/50r17. These sizes have similar diameters and widths, but with slightly different aspect ratios. However, it’s always best to use the manufacturer’s recommended tire size for optimal vehicle performance.
Comparison with Similar Tires
Comparing different tire sizes is like comparing apples to oranges, or perhaps more fittingly, monster trucks to sports cars – each has its unique qualities that make it suitable for specific situations. Here’s a comparison of the 235/55r17 tire with other similar tires:
235/55r17 vs 225/65r17
Compared to the 225/65r17, the 235/55r17 is wider (235mm vs. 225mm) and has a lower aspect ratio (55% vs. 65%). This means the 235/55r17 tire may offer better handling and stability, while the 225/65r17 might offer better comfort due to its taller sidewall.
235/55r17 vs 225/55r17
The difference between these two lies in the width, with the 235/55r17 being wider by 10mm. The wider tire would have a larger contact patch, potentially providing better traction and stability.
235/55r17 vs 225/60r17
Again, the difference is in the width and aspect ratio. The 235/55r17 tire has a wider contact patch, while the 225/60r17 tire has a taller sidewall, potentially providing a softer ride.
235/55r17 vs 235/65r17
These tires share the same width, but the 235/65r17 has a taller sidewall (65% of the width vs. 55%), which might offer a more comfortable ride but potentially less precise handling.
235/55r17 vs 235/60r17
The 235/60r17 has a taller sidewall compared to the 235/55r17, which could translate to a softer ride at the expense of slightly less precise handling.
235/55r17 vs 245/45r17
Compared to the 245/45r17, the 235/55r17 is narrower and has a higher aspect ratio. This means the 235/55r17 might offer a more comfortable ride, while the 245/45r17 could offer better handling due to its wider contact patch and lower aspect ratio.
235/55r17 vs 225/50r17
The 235/55r17 tire is both wider and has a higher aspect ratio than the 225/50r17, suggesting it could provide a more comfortable ride and better handling.
235/55r17 vs 235/50r17
These tires have the same width, but the 235/55r17 has a taller sidewall, potentially offering a more comfortable ride.
235/55r17 vs 215/55r17
The 235/55r17 is wider than the 215/55r17, suggesting it might offer better handling and stability.
235/55r17 vs 235/45r17
The 235/55r17 has a taller sidewall compared to the 235/45r17, which might provide a softer ride.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size is like choosing the right pair of shoes – it’s not just about finding the right fit, but also about finding a pair that suits your style and comfort needs. While the 235/55r17 tire is a great all-around performer, your specific needs might make another tire size a better choice.
Always consult with a tire professional and consider your driving conditions and vehicle specifications before making a decision. It’s not just about the journey or the destination – it’s about enjoying every revolution along the way!
AR Jeet has been a tire mechanic for over 2years. He has worked on all types of vehicles, from cars and trucks to RVs and ATVs and motorcycles. He has seen it all when it comes to tires, and he knows how to fix them.
AR Jeet is a tire expert, and he is passionate about his work. He loves to help people keep their vehicles running smoothly, and he is always happy to answer any questions that people have about their tires.
If you need help with your tires, or if you just want to learn more about them, then AR Jeet is the man to talk to. He will be happy to help you out, and he will make sure that you get the best possible solution.
He has a blog [Tirespick.com] where he writes about all things tire-related, and he is always happy to help people with their tire needs. Know more about AR Jeet.