Tire size comparison

265/70R17 vs 285/70R17 Tires

A 285/70R17 tire is 1.10 inches (3.5%) taller and 0.79 inches wider than a 265/70R17. When the speedometer reads 60 mph after the swap, the true speed is about 62.1 mph. Every figure on this page is calculated from the two size codes.

  • +3.5% diameter
  • +0.79 in width
  • 62.1 mph at 60
  • -21.5 revs per mile

Change either size to compare something else

e.g. 265/70R17, P225/65R17 or 33x12.50R17
 
mph
CurrentNewDifference

Figures are nominal geometry calculated from the size code. A tire’s real measured diameter varies by brand, model and tread depth; check the manufacturer’s spec sheet before you buy, and confirm clearance, load index and speed rating for your vehicle.

Side-by-side specifications

265/70R17285/70R17Difference
Overall diameter31.61 in32.71 in+1.10 in (+3.5%)
Section width10.43 in11.22 in+0.79 in
Sidewall height7.30 in7.85 in+0.55 in
Wheel diameter17 in17 in+0 in
Circumference99.29 in102.76 in+3.46 in
Revolutions per mile638.1616.6-21.5
Ground clearance change+0.55 in

Speedometer error at common speeds

The speedometer was calibrated for the original 265/70R17. The 285/70R17 covers 3.5% more ground per turn, so the true speed is higher than the reading.

Speedometer showsTrue speedDifference
25 mph25.9 mph+0.9 mph
35 mph36.2 mph+1.2 mph
45 mph46.6 mph+1.6 mph
55 mph56.9 mph+1.9 mph
60 mph62.1 mph+2.1 mph
65 mph67.3 mph+2.3 mph
70 mph72.4 mph+2.4 mph
75 mph77.6 mph+2.6 mph
80 mph82.8 mph+2.8 mph

Will a 285/70R17 fit in place of a 265/70R17?

Above the common 3% guideline (+3.5%).Expect a noticeable speedometer error. Check clearance carefully and consider recalibration.
  • HeightThe overall diameter changes by +1.10 inches. The tread moves 0.55 inches closer to the fender at the top.
  • Ground clearanceThe axle sits about 0.55 inches higher: half the change in diameter.
  • WidthOn the same wheel and offset the tire grows 0.39 inches on each side, toward the suspension and toward the fender. Check full steering lock.
  • WheelBoth sizes mount on a 17-inch wheel. Confirm your wheel width is inside the approved rim width range in the tire maker's specification sheet.
  • Load and speedThe size code does not set load capacity. The new tire must meet the load index and speed rating on your door placard: check the chart.

Frequently asked questions

How much taller is a 285/70R17 than a 265/70R17?

1.10 inches, or 3.5%: 31.61 inches against 32.71 inches of overall diameter, calculated from the size codes. Measured diameters vary slightly by tire model and tread depth, so check the maker's specification for the exact tire.

Will my speedometer be off with 285/70R17 tires?

Yes, by about 3.5%. At an indicated 60 mph you would be doing about 62.1 mph, and at an indicated 70 mph about 72.4 mph. A recalibration tool or a dealer can correct the reading.

Can I mount 285/70R17 tires on the wheels I use for 265/70R17?

The wheel diameter matches (17 inches). Whether your wheel width suits the new tire depends on the approved rim width range published by the tire maker, so check it before you buy.

How many revolutions per mile does a 285/70R17 make?

About 617 revolutions per mile, against 638 for a 265/70R17, calculated from the nominal diameter. The maker's published figure for a specific tire can differ slightly.