GarageCalc What 215/55R18 means
215 is the section width in millimeters (8.5 in). 55 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 55 percent of the width, so 215 × 0.55 = 118 mm (4.7 in). R is radial construction, and 18 is the wheel diameter in inches (457 mm). Stack two sidewalls on the wheel and you get the overall diameter: 457 + 2 × 118 = 694 mm, or 27.3 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 215/55R18 91V. Those two codes set how much weight and speed the tire is certified for; look them up in the load index chart and the speed rating chart.
Plus and minus sizing from 215/55R18
Similar diameter does not establish interchangeability. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's approved sizes; see Michelin's tire-size guidance.
Going up one wheel size, the closest match is 235/45R19 at +0.1% diameter with a 106 mm sidewall instead of 118 mm. Going down one size, 235/55R17 is -0.5% with a taller 129 mm sidewall for more comfort and pothole margin. The 3 percent cutoff is a comparison filter, not a fitment approval. Use vehicle-approved sizes and check rim width, load and speed ratings, and clearances. The comparison calculator shows the full speedometer table for any pair.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is a 215/55R18 tire?
27.3 inches (694 mm) in overall diameter: the 18-inch wheel (457 mm) plus two 118 mm sidewalls. Actual dimensions depend on the tire model, tread depth, pressure and load; check the tire manufacturer specifications.
What is 215/55R18 in inches?
27.3 x 8.5 R18: 27.3 inches tall, 8.5 inches wide, on an 18-inch wheel. The sidewall is 4.7 inches and the circumference is 85.8 inches, so the tire turns 738 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 215/55R18?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 18-inch wheel: 235/50R18 (-0.2%), 225/55R18 (+1.6%), 225/50R18 (-1.7%); on a 19-inch wheel: 235/45R19 (+0.1%); on a 17-inch wheel: 235/55R17 (-0.5%), 215/60R17 (-0.6%). The percentage is the diameter change, which is also your speedometer error.
Can I use 225/55R18 instead of 215/55R18?
Nominal size comparison only: 225/55R18 is 1.6% taller (+11 mm) and 10 mm wider, and at a true 60 mph the speedometer would read 59.1 mph. This does not confirm fitment. Check approved rim widths, load and speed ratings, and vehicle clearances. The nominal extra width adds about 0.20 in of clearance on each side of the tire and a rim width that suits 225 mm.