205/55R15 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

606.5 mm

Section Width

205 mm

Sidewall Height

112.8 mm

Circumference

1905.4 mm

Revs/Mile

845

Rim Diameter

15"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 205/55R15 and may be used as replacements:

225/45R16 Safe 0.4% · +20mm · +1" rim 195/65R14 Safe 0.4% · -10mm · -1" rim 215/40R17 Safe 0.5% · +10mm · +2" rim 185/60R15 Safe 0.6% · -20mm · same rim 205/60R14 Safe 0.8% · same width · -1" rim 205/50R16 Safe 0.8% · same width · +1" rim 195/50R16 Safe 0.8% · -10mm · +1" rim 225/40R17 Safe 0.9% · +20mm · +2" rim 215/45R16 Safe 1.1% · +10mm · +1" rim 185/70R14 Safe 1.3% · -20mm · -1" rim 195/60R15 Safe 1.4% · -10mm · same rim 185/65R14 Caution 1.7% · -20mm · -1" rim

Understanding 205/55R15

The tire size 205/55R15 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 15-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 205 x 0.55 = 112.8 mm
Overall Diameter = (112.8 x 2) + (15 x 25.4) = 606.5 mm
Circumference = 606.5 x π = 1905.4 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 205/55R15 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.