what the difference is between a 235 and a 255 tire

Understanding Tire Size: 235 vs. 255

Ryder Gearsmith
2 min readJun 23, 2024

--

When it comes to choosing the right tire size for your vehicle, the numbers can be confusing. You might be wondering what the difference is between a 235 and a 255 tire. Well, you’re in the right place! Let me break it down for you in a simple way.

What Do Tire Numbers Mean?

First, let’s look at what these numbers mean.

Tire Width

The first number, 235 or 255, refers to the tire’s width in millimeters. So, a 235 tire is 235 millimeters wide, while a 255 tire is 255 millimeters wide. That’s a difference of 20 millimeters.

Impact of Width Difference

Now, 20 millimeters might not seem like a lot, but it can have a big impact on your driving experience.

Advantages of Wider Tires (255)

A wider tire, like the 255, will generally provide more grip and stability. This is because there is more rubber in contact with the road. If you do a lot of high-speed driving or cornering, you might appreciate the extra stability of the wider tire.

Downsides of Wider Tires

However, wider tires can also have some downsides.

Heavier Weight

For one, they can be heavier. This extra weight can affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. If you’re looking to save on gas, the narrower 235 tire might be the better option.

Fitment Issues

Another thing to consider is the fit. Not all vehicles can accommodate wider tires. You might need to check if your vehicle’s wheel wells can fit a 255 tire. If they can’t, you could end up with rubbing issues, which can damage both your tires and your vehicle.

Cost

Wider tires can also be more expensive. So, if you’re on a budget, the 235 tire might be more appealing.

Summary: 235 vs. 255

In summary, the main difference between 235 and 255 tires is the width.

Pros of Wider Tires (255)

Better grip and stability

Cons of Wider Tires (255)

  • Heavier
  • Potential fitment issues
  • More expensive

Pros of Narrower Tires (235)

  • Lighter
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Less expensive

Consider your driving habits, budget, and vehicle specifications before making a decision. I hope this helps you understand the difference between 235 and 255 tires! Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.

--

--

Ryder Gearsmith
Ryder Gearsmith

Written by Ryder Gearsmith

An automotive engineer with a passion for writing. Through my blog, I combine technical expertise with creative storytelling to share valuable insights

No responses yet