GarageCalc What 275/65R17 means
275 is the section width in millimeters (10.8 in). 65 is the aspect ratio: the sidewall is 65 percent of the width, so 275 × 0.65 = 179 mm (7.0 in). R is radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches (432 mm). Stack two sidewalls on the wheel and you get the overall diameter: 432 + 2 × 179 = 789 mm, or 31.1 in.
A full marking adds a load index and speed rating after the size, for example 275/65R17 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 275/65R17
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 255/65R18 at -0.1% diameter with a 166 mm sidewall instead of 179 mm. Going down one size, 275/70R16 is +0.3% with a taller 193 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 275/65R17 tire?
31.1 inches (789 mm) in overall diameter: the 17-inch wheel (432 mm) plus two 179 mm sidewalls. Actual dimensions depend on the tire model, tread depth, pressure and load; check the tire manufacturer specifications.
What is 275/65R17 in inches?
31.1 x 10.8 R17: 31.1 inches tall, 10.8 inches wide, on a 17-inch wheel. The sidewall is 7.0 inches and the circumference is 97.6 inches, so the tire turns 649 times per mile.
What tire sizes are equivalent to 275/65R17?
Within 3 percent of the same diameter on the same 17-inch wheel: 255/70R17 (-0.1%), 265/65R17 (-1.6%), 265/70R17 (+1.7%); on an 18-inch wheel: 255/65R18 (-0.1%), 285/60R18 (+1.3%); on a 16-inch wheel: 275/70R16 (+0.3%), 265/70R16 (-1.5%). The percentage is the diameter change, which is also your speedometer error.