235/50R17 Tire Size Specifications & Compatible Vehicles

Overall Diameter

666.8 mm

Section Width

235 mm

Sidewall Height

117.5 mm

Circumference

2094.8 mm

Revs/Mile

768

Rim Diameter

17"

Alternative Tire Sizes

These tire sizes are within 3% overall diameter of 235/50R17 and may be used as replacements:

215/55R17 Safe 0.2% · -20mm · same rim 235/55R16 Safe 0.3% · same width · -1" rim 235/45R18 Safe 0.3% · same width · +1" rim 215/60R16 Safe 0.4% · -20mm · -1" rim 255/45R17 Safe 0.8% · +20mm · same rim 255/40R18 Safe 0.8% · +20mm · +1" rim 255/35R19 Safe 0.8% · +20mm · +2" rim 215/65R15 Safe 0.9% · -20mm · -2" rim 225/45R18 Safe 1.1% · -10mm · +1" rim 225/60R16 Safe 1.4% · -10mm · -1" rim 225/50R17 Safe 1.5% · -10mm · same rim 245/50R17 Safe 1.5% · +10mm · same rim

Understanding 235/50R17

The tire size 235/50R17 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 17-inch rim.

Sidewall Height = 235 x 0.5 = 117.5 mm
Overall Diameter = (117.5 x 2) + (17 x 25.4) = 666.8 mm
Circumference = 666.8 x π = 2094.8 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 235/50R17 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.