SidewallerTire & wheel calculators

255/40R17 vs 205/55R17

205/55R17 is 3.4% taller (+0.85 in) and 1.97 in narrower than 255/40R17.

Caution
Check before you buy

205/55R17 is 3.4% taller than 255/40R17. It often still fits, but expect a noticeable speedometer error and check clearance at full steering lock.

255/40R17205/55R17Change
Diameter25.03″25.88″+0.85″+3.4%
Width10.04″8.07″−1.97″−19.6%
Sidewall4.02″4.44″+0.42″+10.5%
Circumference78.6″81.3″+2.7″+3.4%
Wheel17″17″Same
Revs per mile806779−26
SideTread
255/40R17205/55R17
Speedometer shows 60 mph62.0mph

Real speed on 205/55R17.

Ground clearance+0.42in

Change in height under the axle.

Width per side−0.98in

On the same wheel, split inboard and outboard.

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255/40R17 or 205/55R17?

Can I use 205/55R17 instead of 255/40R17?

205/55R17 is 3.4% taller than 255/40R17. It often still fits, but expect a noticeable speedometer error and check clearance at full steering lock. Also match or beat the original load index and speed rating, and check that the wheel width suits the new tire.

Will my speedometer be off?

At an indicated 60 mph on 205/55R17 you are really doing 62.0 mph if the speedometer was set up for 255/40R17. Going the other way, 255/40R17 would make it read 58.0 mph at a real 60.

How much ground clearance does it change?

Half the diameter difference: +0.42 in (+11 mm) under the axle.

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