GarageCalc What 255/45R20 means
255 is the section width in millimeters (10.0 in). 45 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 45 percent of the width, so 255 × 0.45 = 115 mm (4.5 in). R is radial construction, and 20 is the wheel diameter in inches (508 mm). Stack two sidewalls on the wheel and you get the overall diameter: 508 + 2 × 115 = 738 mm, or 29.0 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 255/45R20 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 255/45R20
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 255/40R21 at -0.0% diameter with a 102 mm sidewall instead of 115 mm. Going down one size, 255/50R19 is +0.0% with a taller 128 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 255/45R20 tire?
29.0 inches (738 mm) in overall diameter: the 20-inch wheel (508 mm) plus two 115 mm sidewalls. Actual dimensions depend on the tire model, tread depth, pressure and load; check the tire manufacturer specifications.
What is 255/45R20 in inches?
29.0 x 10.0 R20: 29.0 inches tall, 10.0 inches wide, on a 20-inch wheel. The sidewall is 4.5 inches and the circumference is 91.2 inches, so the tire turns 695 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 255/45R20?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 20-inch wheel: 245/45R20 (-1.2%), 265/45R20 (+1.2%), 275/40R20 (-1.3%); on a 21-inch wheel: 255/40R21 (-0.0%), 265/40R21 (+1.1%); on a 19-inch wheel: 255/50R19 (+0.0%), 235/55R19 (+0.5%). The percentage is the diameter change, which is also your speedometer error.
Can I use 265/45R20 instead of 255/45R20?
Nominal size comparison only: 265/45R20 is 1.2% taller (+9 mm) and 10 mm wider, and at a true 60 mph the speedometer would read 59.3 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 265 mm.