255/45R20 vs 275/40R21Tire Size Comparison

Safe

The 2.2% diameter difference is within the accepted 3% tolerance.

255/45R20738mm dia275/40R21753mm dia+7.9mm

Comparison Details

Overall Diameter737.5 vs 753.4 mm (+15.9 mm)
Diameter Difference+2.16%
Section Width255 vs 275 mm (+20 mm)
Sidewall Height114.8 vs 110.0 mm (-4.8 mm)
Circumference2316.9 vs 2366.9 mm
Clearance Change+7.9 mm
Speedometer Error+2.16%
Revs/Mile695 vs 680

Speedometer Correction

When switching from 255/45R20 to 275/40R21, your speedometer will differ from actual speed.

SpeedometerActual SpeedDifference
30 km/h30.6 km/h+0.6 km/h
40 km/h40.9 km/h+0.9 km/h
50 km/h51.1 km/h+1.1 km/h
60 km/h61.3 km/h+1.3 km/h
70 km/h71.5 km/h+1.5 km/h
80 km/h81.7 km/h+1.7 km/h
90 km/h91.9 km/h+1.9 km/h
100 km/h102.2 km/h+2.2 km/h
110 km/h112.4 km/h+2.4 km/h
120 km/h122.6 km/h+2.6 km/h
130 km/h132.8 km/h+2.8 km/h

Vehicles Using These Sizes

Vehicles with 255/45R20

Vehicles with 275/40R21

Individual Tire Size Details

Practical Guidance

Switching from 255/45R20 to 275/40R21 is within the industry-accepted 3% diameter tolerance. Your speedometer, ABS, and traction control should function normally. Note: these sizes require different rim diameters (20" vs 21"), so you will need different wheels.

The 3% diameter tolerance is a widely accepted industry guideline referenced by the ETRTO and most vehicle manufacturers. When in doubt, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a qualified tire professional. For U.S. tire safety standards and recalls, see the NHTSA Tire Safety page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safe. The overall diameter differs by 2.16%, width changes by 20mm.

Speedometer error will be 2.16%. At an indicated 100 km/h, actual speed is about 102.2 km/h.

Ground clearance changes by +7.9mm per side.