225/40R18 vs 235/40R18 Side-by-side tire size comparison with specs and compatibility

225/40R18⌀ 637mm235/40R18⌀ 645mm+4.0mm
Compatibility
+1.26% diameter difference
✓ Safe Swap

This tire swap is within the safe 3% diameter threshold. It should not cause issues with speedometer accuracy, ABS, or traction control systems.

Full Specifications Comparison

Specification 225/40R18 235/40R18 Difference
Overall Diameter 637.2 mm (25.1") 645.2 mm (25.4") +8 mm
Section Width 225 mm (8.9") 235 mm (9.3") +10 mm
Sidewall Height 90 mm 94 mm +4 mm
Circumference 2001.8 mm 2027 mm +25.2 mm
Revolutions/Mile 804 794 -10
Aspect Ratio 40% 40% 0%
Rim Diameter 18" 18" 0"

Key Impact Summary

Ground Clearance
+4 mm
Speedometer Error
+1.26%
Width Change
+10 mm
Sidewall Change
+4 mm

Speedometer Correction Table

When switching from 225/40R18 to 235/40R18, your speedometer will under-read. Here is the correction at common speeds:

Speedometer Shows Actual Speed (mph) Difference
30 mph 30.4 mph +0.4 mph
40 mph 40.5 mph +0.5 mph
50 mph 50.6 mph +0.6 mph
60 mph 60.8 mph +0.8 mph
70 mph 70.9 mph +0.9 mph
80 mph 81 mph +1 mph
90 mph 91.1 mph +1.1 mph
100 mph 101.3 mph +1.3 mph
110 mph 111.4 mph +1.4 mph
120 mph 121.5 mph +1.5 mph

What This Swap Means

Wider tires (235/40R18): The 10mm wider contact patch provides better grip in dry conditions and improved cornering stability. However, wider tires increase rolling resistance slightly, which may affect fuel economy by 1-2%. They are also more susceptible to hydroplaning in wet conditions.

Taller sidewall: The 4.0mm increase in sidewall height provides a more comfortable ride by absorbing more road imperfections. Taller sidewalls also offer better protection against pothole damage to wheels. The trade-off is slightly less responsive steering feel.

Ground clearance: Increases by 4mm, providing slightly better approach angles for off-road driving and speed bump clearance.

Vehicles Using 225/40R18

Vehicles Using 235/40R18

Related Comparisons

Individual Tire Specs

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this swap is generally safe. The diameter difference is +1.26% (+8mm). This is within the safe 3% threshold and should not significantly affect your speedometer, ABS, or traction control.
Switching from 225/40R18 to 235/40R18 creates a +1.26% speedometer error. Your actual speed will be faster than displayed — at an indicated 60 mph, you'll actually be going 60.8 mph.
Switching from 225/40R18 to 235/40R18 changes ground clearance by +4mm. The vehicle will sit 4mm higher. Ground clearance change equals half the overall diameter difference.