When selecting new wheels and tires for your vehicle, it’s important to understand how rim width correlates to tire sizes to get the proper fit. In this article, we’ll provide a helpful rim width tire size chart that matches appropriate tire sizes for various wheel rim widths.
Why Rim Width Matters
The width of the wheel rim affects the range of tire sizes that can mount properly on that rim. Using the wrong size tires on a rim width can lead to bulging, improper seating, compromised handling, and faster wear. Consulting a rim width tire size chart helps ensure optimal fit.
General Rim Widths for Vehicles
Here are some typical rim widths for different vehicle types:
- Passenger Cars: 13” to 20” rims
- SUVs/Crossovers: 15” to 22” rims
- Pickup Trucks: 15” to 20” rims
- Performance Cars: 17” to 22” rims
Within those ranges, using the proper tire for the specific rim width is key.
Rim Width Tire Size Chart
Here is a chart matching appropriate rim width tire size chart:
| Rim Width (inches) | Matching Tire Sizes |
|---|---|
| 13 | 155/80R13 – 195/60R13 |
| 14 | 165/70R14 – 215/60R14 |
| 15 | 175/70R15 – 235/60R15 |
| 16 | 185/55R16 – 255/50R16 |
| 17 | 195/45R17 – 255/45R17 |
| 18 | 205/40R18 – 275/45R18 |
| 19 | 215/35R19 – 295/30R19 |
| 20 | 225/30R20 – 305/30R20 |
| 22 | 255/30R22 – 335/25R22 |
Reading Tire Size Markings
Tire sizes are designated with a series of numbers and letters, such as:
225/50R18
This breaks down to:
- 225 – Tire width in mm
- 50 – Aspect ratio (sidewall height percentage)
- R – Radial tire
- 18 – Rim diameter in inches
Using both the rim size and full tire size allows pairing the proper fit.
Read More: Understanding the Tire Depth Chart: Guide to Measurement
When to Consult a Chart
It’s especially important to use a proper rim and tire size pairing when:
- Switching to larger or smaller rims than stock
- Changing aspect ratio or tire width significantly
- Unsure if an alternate tire size will work on existing rims
- Mixing rim diameters on the same axle
Potential Issues from Mismatched Sizes
Mounting the wrong tire size on a given rim width can cause:
- Bulging or squaring from too narrow rim
- Insufficient bead seat from too wide rim
- Handling and stability problems
- Reduced fuel economy and acceleration
- Irregular tread wear
- Damage to wheels and tires
Conclusion
In order to achieve ideal tire performance, fuel economy, and safety, it’s critical to pair tires with an appropriate rim width. Consulting a rim width tire size chart removes the guesswork and helps ensure proper mounting and fit. Taking the small step of cross-referencing sizes avoids the headaches and hazards of mismatching these components.
Key Takeaways
- Rim width determines suitable tire size range.
- Typical rim widths span 13”-22” for most vehicles.
- Match rim and tire sizes based on size charts.
- Mismatched sizes can cause issues with fit, handling, and wear.
- Reference charts especially when deviating from OEM sizing.
How can you determine the appropriate rim width for a tire size?
In the case of sports cars, it’s typically recommended to align the wheel width with the tread width, measured in inches. For instance, if you have a tire size like 285/35-19 with a tread width of 9.9 inches, the ideal rim width would be approximately 10.0 inches for that tire.
What size tires fit 7 inch rims?
Tire sizes that typically fit 7-inch rims range from 185 to 225 millimeters in width.
Will a 245 fit on a 8 inch rim?
Is it suitable to mount a 245mm wide tire on an 8-inch rim? Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable. Often, individuals tend to choose larger rims than necessary, which we frequently observe in our workshop. Although an 8.5-inch rim might be preferable, using an 8-inch rim will work just fine.
Is it possible to install 235 tires on rims designed for 245 tires?
Yes, you can indeed replace 245/50-18 tires with 235/50-18 tires, but it’s important to note that the latter will have a slightly smaller overall diameter, approximately 10mm (0.4 inches) less.