What does tire size 265/65/R17 mean?

[MaciFitz]

Tire size 265/65/R17 is its model code, where 265 refers to the section width of 265mm, 65 refers to the aspect ratio, R indicates radial construction, and 17 means the rim size is 17 inches. Below are methods to check tire size and other size information: Methods to check tire size: The original tire size can be found in the owner's manual, on the left front door frame, storage compartment door, or fuel filler cap. You can also find the tire specifications on the sidewall of your current tires. Other size information: There are usually two digits plus a letter after the tire model number, such as 92V, which respectively represent the tire's load index of 92 and V being the speed rating code.

[OEverly]

The numbers 265/65/R17 are actually quite important. I only figured out the details when I went to change my tires last time. The first number, 265, refers to the tire width in millimeters—your tires are noticeably wider than those on regular cars. The number 65 represents the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 65% of the tire's width. Tires with this ratio offer a more comfortable ride and reduce bumpiness over potholes. The 'R' indicates a radial tire structure, which over 90% of vehicles use today, featuring sturdy internal steel belts arranged radially. Finally, the 17 denotes a 17-inch wheel diameter, so it's crucial to match this when replacing tires. This tire size is especially common in off-road vehicles, as the wider tread improves traction. If my SUV had narrower tires, climbing hills would be much harder—though fuel consumption might be slightly higher compared to regular cars.

[Jason]

When I was learning car repair, the mechanic taught me how to read tire sizes. The number 265 refers to the tread width, measured in millimeters between the two sidewalls—the larger the number, the greater the contact area. The 65 is called the aspect ratio, representing that the sidewall height is 65% of the tread width; the smaller the number, the flatter the tire. The letter R stands for radial construction, meaning the steel belts are arranged radially. Finally, the 17 indicates that the tire is meant to fit a 17-inch wheel. Such specifications are common in rugged SUVs. For example, I’ve seen a friend drive a Prado on the Sichuan-Tibet route with 265-wide tires—they handle gravel roads steadily, but in the city, turns feel less agile, often requiring an extra half-turn of the wheel.

[HarperLee]

The numbers and letters on the tire represent specific specifications. 265 indicates a section width of 265 millimeters, generally, heavier vehicles require wider tires. 65 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 65% of the tire width; tires with lower values offer better handling but poorer shock absorption. R stands for radial construction, making the tire body more robust. 17 denotes compatibility with 17-inch rims. This specification is suitable for high-speed or off-road use, where the wide tread provides stronger grip, and the high aspect ratio ensures passability on complex terrains. Some pickup trucks equipped with such tires can even traverse muddy swamps, although the tire noise tends to be louder compared to standard passenger cars.