225/55R16 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

653.9 mm

Section Width

225 mm

Sidewall Height

123.8 mm

Circumference

2054.3 mm

Revs/Mile

783

Rim Diameter

16"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 225/55R16 and may be used as replacements:

245/40R18 Safe 0.1% · +20mm · +2" rim 205/60R16 Safe 0.2% · -20mm · same rim 245/45R17 Safe 0.2% · +20mm · +1" rim 225/50R17 Safe 0.4% · same width · +1" rim 225/45R18 Safe 0.9% · same width · +2" rim 205/65R15 Safe 1.0% · -20mm · -1" rim 215/65R15 Safe 1.0% · -10mm · -1" rim 215/50R17 Safe 1.1% · -10mm · +1" rim 235/40R18 Safe 1.3% · +10mm · +2" rim 205/75R14 Safe 1.4% · -20mm · -2" rim 215/60R16 Caution 1.6% · -10mm · same rim 235/45R17 Caution 1.6% · +10mm · +1" rim

Understanding 225/55R16

The tire size 225/55R16 means the tire has a section width of 225mm, an aspect ratio of 55% (the sidewall height is 55% of the width), and fits a 16-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 225 x 0.55 = 123.8 mm
Overall Diameter = (123.8 x 2) + (16 x 25.4) = 653.9 mm
Circumference = 653.9 x π = 2054.3 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 225/55R16 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.