235/50R16 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

641.4 mm

Section Width

235 mm

Sidewall Height

117.5 mm

Circumference

2015.0 mm

Revs/Mile

799

Rim Diameter

16"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 235/50R16 and may be used as replacements:

215/55R16 Safe 0.2% · -20mm · same rim 235/45R17 Safe 0.3% · same width · +1" rim 215/60R15 Safe 0.4% · -20mm · -1" rim 235/40R18 Safe 0.6% · same width · +2" rim 225/40R18 Safe 0.7% · -10mm · +2" rim 215/50R17 Safe 0.8% · -20mm · +1" rim 255/40R17 Safe 0.9% · +20mm · +1" rim 255/35R18 Safe 0.9% · +20mm · +2" rim 225/45R17 Safe 1.1% · -10mm · +1" rim 225/50R16 Caution 1.6% · -10mm · same rim 245/45R17 Caution 1.7% · +10mm · +1" rim 245/40R18 Caution 1.8% · +10mm · +2" rim

Understanding 235/50R16

The tire size 235/50R16 means the tire has a section width of 235mm, an aspect ratio of 50% (the sidewall height is 50% of the width), and fits a 16-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 235 x 0.5 = 117.5 mm
Overall Diameter = (117.5 x 2) + (16 x 25.4) = 641.4 mm
Circumference = 641.4 x π = 2015.0 mm

With an aspect ratio of 50%, 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 235/50R16 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.