GarageCalc What 285/40R17 means
285 is the section width in millimeters (11.2 in). 40 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 40 percent of the width, so 285 × 0.40 = 114 mm (4.5 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 × 114 = 660 mm, or 26.0 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 285/40R17 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 285/40R17
Similar diameter does not establish interchangeability. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's approved sizes; see Michelin's tire-size guidance.
Going up one wheel size, the closest match is 285/35R18 at -0.5% diameter with a 100 mm sidewall instead of 114 mm. No common 16-inch size stays within 3 percent either. The 3 percent cutoff is a comparison filter, not a fitment approval. Use vehicle-approved sizes and check rim width, load and speed ratings, and clearances. The comparison calculator shows the full speedometer table for any pair.
For the effect on road speed and distance, see our worked speedometer example. When maintaining this set, use the rotation pattern guide to check whether tire direction or different front and rear sizes restrict rotation.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is a 285/40R17 tire?
26.0 inches (660 mm) in overall diameter: the 17-inch wheel (432 mm) plus two 114 mm sidewalls. Actual dimensions depend on the tire model, tread depth, pressure and load; check the tire manufacturer specifications.
What is 285/40R17 in inches?
26.0 x 11.2 R17: 26.0 inches tall, 11.2 inches wide, on a 17-inch wheel. The sidewall is 4.5 inches and the circumference is 81.6 inches, so the tire turns 776 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 285/40R17?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 17-inch wheel: 275/40R17 (-1.2%); on an 18-inch wheel: 285/35R18 (-0.5%), 295/35R18 (+0.6%). These are nominal diameter comparisons, not approved replacements. Check vehicle-approved sizes, rim width, load and speed ratings, and clearance before changing size.