GarageCalc What 235/65R17 means
235 is the section width in millimeters (9.3 in). 65 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 65 percent of the width, so 235 × 0.65 = 153 mm (6.0 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 × 153 = 737 mm, or 29.0 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 235/65R17 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 235/65R17
Going up one wheel size, the closest match is 255/55R18 at +0.1% diameter with a 140 mm sidewall instead of 153 mm. Going down one size, 255/65R16 is +0.1% with a taller 166 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 235/65R17
Typical factory fitments include Honda CR-V LX (2017 on), Hyundai Santa Fe (2013-2018) and Kia Sorento (2011-2015). Tire size changes with trim and wheel option, so confirm on the door-jamb placard before buying.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is a 235/65R17 tire?
29.0 inches (737 mm) in overall diameter: the 17-inch wheel (432 mm) plus two 153 mm sidewalls. Real tires land within about 1 to 2 percent of that depending on brand, tread depth and pressure.
What is 235/65R17 in inches?
29.0 x 9.3 R17: 29.0 inches tall, 9.3 inches wide, on a 17-inch wheel. The sidewall is 6.0 inches and the circumference is 91.2 inches, so the tire turns 695 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 235/65R17?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 17-inch wheel: 255/60R17 (+0.1%), 225/65R17 (-1.8%), 245/65R17 (+1.8%); on an 18-inch wheel: 255/55R18 (+0.1%), 235/60R18 (+0.3%); on a 16-inch wheel: 255/65R16 (+0.1%), 235/70R16 (-0.3%). The percentage is the diameter change, which is also your speedometer error.
Can I use 245/65R17 instead of 235/65R17?
Dimensionally yes: 245/65R17 is 1.8% taller (+13 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 245 mm.