How do you pick the right size tire?

Reading tire size documentation

1. 1) The width of the tires in millimeters.
2. 2) Percentage height of the sidewall in relation to the width.
3. 3) Radial construction.
4. 4) Rim diameter in inches.
5. 5) Load index (the maximum load capacity of the tire)
6. 6) Speed index (the maximum speed of the tire)
7. 7) Self-Supporting Run-flat tire.

Is it OK to put different size tires on a car?

Wheels and tires are not interchangeable words. Tires are a part of the wheel setup. For instance, your vehicle has a set size of rims, but you can buy different sizes of tires to fit those rims, as long as the middle of the tires is the correct size.

What happens if you put too big of tires on your car?

When you put bigger tires on your car, SUV, crossover, or light truck, you raise the vehicle’s clearance — increasing body roll and load transfer, which may negatively impact your car’s balance and speed.

What does XL mean on a tire?

Extra Load
If you own a car that often carries heavy loads, or is a multi-purpose vehicle’s, e.g. a minivan, it is possible that the vehicle manufacturer originally installed Extra Load (XL) or reinforced tires. These tires have stiffer sidewalls than normal tires, which allow them to support the weight of heavier vehicles.

Can I use 265 tires instead of 255?

Since you only specified the first, I can only tell you that the 265 is 10mm wider than the 255. It’s important to note that the outer diameter (how far the wheel rolls in one revolution) is slightly more for a 265 than a 255 at the same aspect ratio as the sidewall would be larger.

Does changing tire size affect transmission?

Wrong size tires do not damage the transmission. Although ill-fitting tires do not directly impact the transmission, it does impact the overall performance of the vehicle. Wrong size tires can cause a safety hazard as well as cause structural damage to the vehicle.

Will 275 tires fit 265?

There is no specific width to run a 265 or 275. Most of the time they will fit on the same wheel. It all has to do with size, sidewall, and manufacturer.

Will bigger tires ruin my transmission?

Changing tire size doesn’t affect your transmission, but it does change your final drive ratio. The effect is the same as if you had changed your transmission. How much difference you have depends on how different the tires are compared to the stock tires. Larger tires will lower your final drive ratio.

What does owl mean on tires?

Outlined White Letters
OWL = Outlined White Letters. RWL = Raised White Letters. ORWL = Outlined Raised White Letters.

What size tires should I get for my vehicle?

For example, our tire size of 245/75-16 with a diameter of 30.47” would place it smack between equivalent off-road tire sizes of 30” and 31”. If you were not changing your vehicle’s ride height and clearance in the wheel well was already tight, we’d recommend playing it safe and choosing the smaller 30″ size.

What is a tire size calculator and how does it work?

A tire size calculator is a quick way to see whether the tire size you’re considering will likely fit your car, SUV, sports car, light truck or crossover. But remember that will give you just an estimate. It’s important to stay within the sizing tolerances of your vehicle.

How can I find out what size tires are available online?

Online tire size calculators can be helpful when choosing alternate tire and wheel sizes. Some tire size calculators give the size tire available for a specific make and model car. Consumer Reports’ tire selector tool can do that, plus it lists other sizes that are available for that car model and highlights compatible tested tires.

Should you change tire sizes when buying tires?

A common situation in which you’d change sizes is when buying winter/snow tires. Retailers often recommend moving to a smaller wheel and using a tire with a taller sidewall, without increasing the overall tire diameter. This creates a longer footprint, also known as contact patch, where the tire connects to the ground.