205/55R14 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

581.1 mm

Section Width

205 mm

Sidewall Height

112.8 mm

Circumference

1825.6 mm

Revs/Mile

882

Rim Diameter

14"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 205/55R14 and may be used as replacements:

195/45R16 Safe 0.1% · -10mm · +2" rim 215/40R16 Safe 0.5% · +10mm · +2" rim 185/55R15 Safe 0.6% · -20mm · +1" rim 185/60R14 Safe 0.6% · -20mm · same rim 205/50R15 Safe 0.8% · same width · +1" rim 195/50R15 Safe 0.9% · -10mm · +1" rim 225/40R16 Safe 0.9% · +20mm · +2" rim 215/45R15 Safe 1.1% · +10mm · +1" rim 195/60R14 Safe 1.5% · -10mm · same rim 205/45R16 Caution 1.7% · same width · +2" rim 205/40R16 Caution 1.8% · same width · +2" rim 195/55R14 Caution 1.9% · -10mm · same rim

Understanding 205/55R14

The tire size 205/55R14 means the tire has a section width of 205mm, an aspect ratio of 55% (the sidewall height is 55% of the width), and fits a 14-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 205 x 0.55 = 112.8 mm
Overall Diameter = (112.8 x 2) + (14 x 25.4) = 581.1 mm
Circumference = 581.1 x π = 1825.6 mm

With an aspect ratio of 55%, this is a standard-profile tire that balances ride comfort with handling precision. This profile range is the most common for passenger cars, crossovers, and light SUVs.

Choosing Replacement Tires

When replacing 205/55R14 tires, verify the size matches your vehicle's tire placard (typically found on the driver's door jamb or in the owner's manual). The NHTSA Tire Ratings Search tool lets you look up manufacturer load and speed ratings for specific tires.

Key factors beyond size: load index (must meet or exceed the vehicle's requirement), speed rating (must match or exceed the original specification), and seasonal type (all-season, summer, or winter) based on your driving conditions. The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association recommends replacing all four tires at once, or at minimum in pairs on the same axle.