235/45R18 vs 225/45R17Tire Size Comparison

Not Recommended

The 5.1% diameter difference exceeds 5% and could affect ABS and traction control.

235/45R18669mm dia225/45R17634mm dia-17.2mm

Comparison Details

Overall Diameter668.7 vs 634.3 mm (-34.4 mm)
Diameter Difference-5.14%
Section Width235 vs 225 mm (-10 mm)
Sidewall Height105.8 vs 101.3 mm (-4.5 mm)
Circumference2100.8 vs 1992.7 mm
Clearance Change-17.2 mm
Speedometer Error-5.14%
Revs/Mile766 vs 808

Speedometer Correction

When switching from 235/45R18 to 225/45R17, your speedometer will differ from actual speed.

SpeedometerActual SpeedDifference
30 km/h28.5 km/h-1.5 km/h
40 km/h37.9 km/h-2.1 km/h
50 km/h47.4 km/h-2.6 km/h
60 km/h56.9 km/h-3.1 km/h
70 km/h66.4 km/h-3.6 km/h
80 km/h75.9 km/h-4.1 km/h
90 km/h85.4 km/h-4.6 km/h
100 km/h94.9 km/h-5.1 km/h
110 km/h104.3 km/h-5.7 km/h
120 km/h113.8 km/h-6.2 km/h
130 km/h123.3 km/h-6.7 km/h

Vehicles Using These Sizes

Vehicles with 235/45R18

Vehicles with 225/45R17

Individual Tire Size Details

Practical Guidance

A 5.1% diameter difference is significantly outside the safe replacement range. Switching from 235/45R18 to 225/45R17 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 -5.14%, width changes by -10mm.

Speedometer error will be -5.14%. At an indicated 100 km/h, actual speed is about 94.9 km/h.

Ground clearance changes by -17.2mm per side.