225/50R17 vs 235/50R18Tire Size Comparison

Not Recommended

The 5.4% diameter difference exceeds 5% and could affect ABS and traction control.

225/50R17657mm dia235/50R18692mm dia+17.7mm

Comparison Details

Overall Diameter656.8 vs 692.2 mm (+35.4 mm)
Diameter Difference+5.39%
Section Width225 vs 235 mm (+10 mm)
Sidewall Height112.5 vs 117.5 mm (+5.0 mm)
Circumference2063.4 vs 2174.6 mm
Clearance Change+17.7 mm
Speedometer Error+5.39%
Revs/Mile780 vs 740

Speedometer Correction

When switching from 225/50R17 to 235/50R18, your speedometer will differ from actual speed.

SpeedometerActual SpeedDifference
30 km/h31.6 km/h+1.6 km/h
40 km/h42.2 km/h+2.2 km/h
50 km/h52.7 km/h+2.7 km/h
60 km/h63.2 km/h+3.2 km/h
70 km/h73.8 km/h+3.8 km/h
80 km/h84.3 km/h+4.3 km/h
90 km/h94.9 km/h+4.9 km/h
100 km/h105.4 km/h+5.4 km/h
110 km/h115.9 km/h+5.9 km/h
120 km/h126.5 km/h+6.5 km/h
130 km/h137.0 km/h+7.0 km/h

Vehicles Using These Sizes

Vehicles with 225/50R17

Vehicles with 235/50R18

Individual Tire Size Details

Practical Guidance

A 5.4% diameter difference is significantly outside the safe replacement range. Switching from 225/50R17 to 235/50R18 can cause dangerous speedometer inaccuracy, ABS/traction control malfunctions, and potential clearance issues. This change is not recommended without professional verification and possible ECU recalibration.

The 3% diameter tolerance is a widely accepted industry guideline referenced by the ETRTO and most vehicle manufacturers. When in doubt, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a qualified tire professional. For U.S. tire safety standards and recalls, see the NHTSA Tire Safety page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not Recommended. The overall diameter differs by 5.39%, width changes by 10mm.

Speedometer error will be 5.39%. At an indicated 100 km/h, actual speed is about 105.4 km/h.

Ground clearance changes by +17.7mm per side.