215/40R16 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

578.4 mm

Section Width

215 mm

Sidewall Height

86.0 mm

Circumference

1817.1 mm

Revs/Mile

886

Rim Diameter

16"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 215/40R16 and may be used as replacements:

195/50R15 Safe 0.4% · -20mm · -1" rim 205/55R14 Safe 0.5% · -10mm · -2" rim 195/45R16 Safe 0.6% · -20mm · same rim 215/45R15 Safe 0.7% · same width · -1" rim 215/35R17 Safe 0.7% · same width · +1" rim 205/50R15 Safe 1.3% · -10mm · -1" rim 205/40R16 Safe 1.4% · -10mm · same rim 225/40R16 Safe 1.4% · +10mm · same rim 195/55R14 Safe 1.4% · -20mm · -2" rim 225/35R17 Caution 1.9% · +10mm · +1" rim 195/60R14 Caution 1.9% · -20mm · -2" rim 205/45R16 Caution 2.2% · -10mm · same rim

Understanding 215/40R16

The tire size 215/40R16 means the tire has a section width of 215mm, an aspect ratio of 40% (the sidewall height is 40% of the width), and fits a 16-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 215 x 0.4 = 86.0 mm
Overall Diameter = (86.0 x 2) + (16 x 25.4) = 578.4 mm
Circumference = 578.4 x π = 1817.1 mm

With an aspect ratio of 40%, this is a low-profile tire. Low-profile tires offer sharper steering response and better cornering stability, but provide a firmer ride and are more susceptible to pothole damage. They are commonly found on sport sedans and performance vehicles.

Choosing Replacement Tires

When replacing 215/40R16 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.