Tire Size Box

205/55R16 vs 205/65R16

205/65R16 compared with 205/55R16

+6.5% diameter, 0.0" width

205/65R16 is 26.49" tall vs 24.88". More than the 3% rule of thumb, so check carefully before switching.

24.9"16" rim4.4"8.1" wide
205/55R16 (solid) compared with 205/65R16 (dashed outline), drawn to scale

With 205/65R16 tires, when your speedometer says 60 mph you are really going

63.9 mph

205/65R16 is +1.61 inches (+6.5%) in overall diameter. That is more than the 3% most shops and makers recommend.

205/55R16205/65R16Difference%
Overall diameter24.88"26.49"+1.61"+6.5%
Section width8.07"8.07"0.00"0.0%
Sidewall height4.44"5.25"+0.81"+18.2%
Circumference78.16"83.23"+5.07"+6.5%
Revolutions per mile810.7761.3−49.4−6.1%

Speedometer difference

If your vehicle came with 205/55R16 and you fit 205/65R16, here is your real speed for each speedometer reading:

Speedometer showsActual speedDifference
20 mph21.3 mph+1.3 mph
30 mph31.9 mph+1.9 mph
40 mph42.6 mph+2.6 mph
50 mph53.2 mph+3.2 mph
60 mph63.9 mph+3.9 mph
65 mph69.2 mph+4.2 mph
70 mph74.5 mph+4.5 mph
75 mph79.9 mph+4.9 mph
80 mph85.2 mph+5.2 mph

Each size on its own

Questions

Which is bigger, 205/55R16 or 205/65R16?
205/65R16 is taller by 1.61 inches (26.49" vs 24.88"). 205/55R16 is the same width.
Can I replace 205/55R16 with 205/65R16?
It is not recommended without checking carefully. The diameter difference is +6.5%, more than the 3% most shops and makers allow. It will throw off the speedometer and may affect ABS, stability control and clearance.
How much will 205/65R16 change my speedometer?
When your speedometer reads 60 mph with 205/65R16 fitted (calibrated for 205/55R16), your real speed is 63.9 mph. Your odometer will under-count miles by about 6.5%.
Will 205/65R16 lift my vehicle?
Ride height changes by half the diameter difference: +0.81 inches of ground clearance at the axle.

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