GarageCalc What 215/55R17 means
215 is the section width in millimeters (8.5 in). 55 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 55 percent of the width, so 215 × 0.55 = 118 mm (4.7 in). R is radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches (432 mm). Stack two sidewalls on the wheel and you get the overall diameter: 432 + 2 × 118 = 668 mm, or 26.3 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 215/55R17 91V. Those two codes set how much weight and speed the tire is certified for; look them up in the load index chart and the speed rating chart.
Plus and minus sizing from 215/55R17
Going up one wheel size, the closest match is 235/45R18 at +0.1% diameter with a 106 mm sidewall instead of 118 mm. Going down one size, 215/60R16 is -0.6% with a taller 129 mm sidewall for more comfort and pothole margin. Anything inside 3 percent keeps the speedometer, ABS and gearing effectively stock; the comparison calculator shows the full speedometer table for any pair.
Which cars come with 215/55R17
Typical factory fitments include Toyota Camry LE (2018 on), Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima and Honda Accord LX (2013-2017). Tire size changes with trim and wheel option, so confirm on the door-jamb placard before buying.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is a 215/55R17 tire?
26.3 inches (668 mm) in overall diameter: the 17-inch wheel (432 mm) plus two 118 mm sidewalls. Real tires land within about 1 to 2 percent of that depending on brand, tread depth and pressure.
What is 215/55R17 in inches?
26.3 x 8.5 R17: 26.3 inches tall, 8.5 inches wide, on a 17-inch wheel. The sidewall is 4.7 inches and the circumference is 82.7 inches, so the tire turns 767 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 215/55R17?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 17-inch wheel: 235/50R17 (-0.2%), 205/55R17 (-1.6%), 225/55R17 (+1.6%); on an 18-inch wheel: 235/45R18 (+0.1%), 215/50R18 (+0.6%); on a 16-inch wheel: 215/60R16 (-0.6%), 205/65R16 (+0.7%). The percentage is the diameter change, which is also your speedometer error.
Can I use 225/55R17 instead of 215/55R17?
Dimensionally yes: 225/55R17 is 1.6% taller (+11 mm) and 10 mm wider, and at a true 60 mph the speedometer would read 59.0 mph. The extra width needs about 0.20 in of clearance on each side of the tire and a rim width that suits 225 mm.