235/50R16 Tire Size Calculator

Complete specifications and dimensions for 235/50R16 tire size

Tire Size Diagram

Tire Size Calculator

235
50
16

235/50R16 Quick Specifications

235mm
Section Width
117.5mm
Sidewall Height
25.3"
Overall Diameter
799
Revs per Mile

How to Read 235/50R16 Tire Size? What Does 235/50R16 Mean?

Let's break down the tire size 235/50R16 to understand what each number and letter means:

235 (Section Width)

The first number "235" represents the tire's width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. In this case, the tire is 235 millimeters wide (approximately 9.25 inches).

50 (Aspect Ratio)

The number "50" after the forward slash is the aspect ratio or profile. This means the tire's sidewall height is 50% of its width. For a 235mm wide tire, the sidewall height would be117.50mm (approximately 4.63 inches).

R (Construction)

The letter "R" indicates this is a Radial tire, which is the most common type of tire construction today. Radial tires have layers of cord that run radially (at 90 degrees) from the center of the tire.

16 (Wheel Diameter)

The last number "16" specifies the wheel diameter in inches. This means the tire is designed to fit a 16-inch wheel. The total diameter of the tire would be the wheel size plus twice the sidewall height.

Detailed Measurements for 235/50R16

Based on the 235/50R16 tire size, here are the calculated measurements:

  • Total Tire Diameter: 16 inches (wheel) + 2 × 4.63 inches (sidewall height) = 25.25 inches
  • Sidewall Height: 117.50mm or 4.63 inches (on each side)
  • Circumference: Approximately 79.33 inches (based on π × total diameter)
  • Revolutions per Mile: About 799 (varies slightly based on load and air pressure)

Key Tire Measurements Explained

Section Width

The width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall, measured in millimeters. For 235/50R16, this is 235mm or approximately 9.25 inches.

Aspect Ratio

The height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of the width. A 50 aspect ratio means the sidewall height is 50% of the tire's width.

Overall Diameter

The total height of the 235/50R16 tire when mounted on the wheel is 25.25 inches. This includes both the wheel diameter and the tire's sidewall height on both sides.

Sidewall Height

For 235/50R16, the sidewall height is 117.50mm (4.63 inches). This is the distance from the wheel rim to the outer edge of the tire.

Why Accurate Tire Measurements Matter

  • Vehicle Performance: Tire size affects your vehicle's acceleration, braking, and handling characteristics.
  • Speedometer Accuracy: Changes in tire diameter can affect your speedometer and odometer readings.
  • Clearance Issues: Incorrect tire sizes may cause rubbing against your vehicle's fenders or suspension components.
  • Fuel Economy: Larger or heavier tires can impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Pro Tips for 235/50R16 Tires

✓ Check Your Vehicle's Manual: Always consult your vehicle's manual to confirm 235/50R16 is the correct size for your vehicle.

✓ Consider Your Usage: The 235/50R16 size may be better suited for specific uses (highway driving, off-road, performance, etc.).

✓ Maintain Proper Sizing: Keep front and rear tire sizes consistent unless specifically recommended otherwise by your vehicle manufacturer.

✓ Watch for Clearance: When using 235/50R16 tires, ensure adequate clearance for steering, suspension, and body components.

Related Tire Sizes

Explore similar tire sizes that might fit your vehicle:

Tire Size Resources

Interactive Calculator

Use our full-featured tire calculator to compare different sizes and see detailed comparisons.

Open Calculator →

Tire Size Guide

Learn how to read tire sizes and understand what each number means for your vehicle.

Read Guide →

Vehicle Tire Sizes

Find factory-recommended tire sizes for your specific vehicle make and model.

Browse Vehicles →