How to Determine the Correct Tire Size for Wheel Size

Measuring wheels (also called hubcaps or rims) for tires can seem like a tricky task. When you measure a tire to find out what size wheel you will need for it, many times you will come up with a different number that is actually needed. It's important to know how to read your tire's measurements printed on the side of the tire to ensure you purchase the correct size wheels. It's also beneficial to know how to measure your tire if you ever need to replace the tire and the measurements are worn off.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Locate the measurement numbers on the side of the tire. They should read something similar to " 205/55R 16 89V." The first number is the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number is the aspect ratio.

2. Locate the number after the "R." This number is the rim diameter code of the wheel on which the tire fits. This is the size of hubcaps or wheels you should buy to fit your tire.

3. Take a tape measure and measure the sidewall height of the tire and multiply by two to figure the outside diameter of the actual tire. This will give you the size of tire you will need to purchase new tires. To convert the number into millimeters, multiply by 25.4.

References

• Measuring wheel size
• Indentification of wheel measurements
• Choosing the correct hubcap size