Tire size comparison

295/70R17 vs 285/70R17

285/70R17 is −1.7% shorter than 295/70R17: 32.7 in vs 33.3 in (−0.55 in), and 0.4 in narrower. With 285/70R17 on a vehicle set up for 295/70R17, the speedometer shows 60 mph at an actual 59.0 mph. That is within the ±3% difference many shops use as a rule of thumb (not a manufacturer or legal limit).

1

Your current size

e.g. 265/70R17, 2657017 or 33x12.50R20

Where do I find my size?

It's on the tire sidewall, e.g. P265/70R17 115T, and on the tire placard sticker on the driver's door jamb (also in the owner's manual). If your current tires aren't the original size, the placard shows what the vehicle came with. Digits are enough here: 2657017 or 33125020.

2

Size you're considering

 

295/70R17 vs 285/70R17: full comparison

295/70R17285/70R17Difference
Overall diameter33.26 in32.71 in−0.55 in (−1.7%)
Width11.61 in11.22 in−0.39 in (−3.4%)
Sidewall height8.13 in7.85 in−0.28 in
Circumference104.5 in102.8 in−1.7 in
Revs per mile (nominal)606617+10
Wheel diameter17 in17 in±0 in
Diameter in mm845831−14 mm

Speedometer difference

Your speedometer is calibrated for 295/70R17. Fitted with 285/70R17, the actual speed is the reading × 32.71 ÷ 33.26.

Speedometer showsActual speedDifference
20 mph19.7 mph−0.3 mph
30 mph29.5 mph−0.5 mph
45 mph44.3 mph−0.7 mph
55 mph54.1 mph−0.9 mph
60 mph59.0 mph−1.0 mph
70 mph68.8 mph−1.2 mph
80 mph78.7 mph−1.3 mph

Estimate from the size change only. Factory speedometers have their own tolerance, real tires differ from nominal, and recalibration options differ by vehicle.

Real tires: published diameters

295/70R17: 33.2–33.54 in published by 5 makers; 285/70R17: 32.7–33.15 in published by 6 makers. Calculated figures assume a nominal tire; the exact difference between two specific tires depends on their models.

More about each size: 295/70R17 · 285/70R17

Related comparisons

285/70R17 vs 33x12.50R17+0.9% diameter285/70R17 vs 35x12.50R17+7.0% diameter285/70R17 vs 315/70R17+5.1% diameter265/70R17 vs 285/70R17+3.5% diameter255/80R17 vs 285/70R17−1.1% diameter275/70R17 vs 285/70R17+1.7% diameter285/70R17 vs 35x11.50R17+7.0% diameter

FAQ

Which is bigger, 295/70R17 or 285/70R17?

285/70R17 is −1.7% shorter than 295/70R17: 32.7 in vs 33.3 in (−0.55 in).

How much will my speedometer be off with 285/70R17 instead of 295/70R17?

The speedometer is calibrated for 295/70R17. With 285/70R17 it shows 60 mph when you are doing 59.0 mph, and 70 mph at 68.8 mph (−1.7%). Your speedometer also has its own factory tolerance.

Can I replace 295/70R17 with 285/70R17?

The diameter difference is −1.7%. Whether it fits depends on things this calculation can't see: wheel width and offset, clearance at full lock and over bumps, load index and speed rating, and your vehicle maker's approval. Check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional.

Important: These are calculated (nominal) dimensions, not a fitment recommendation. Real tires of the same size differ by brand and model (makers allow about ±3% of section height), and width changes with the rim it is mounted on. The math can't see wheel width and offset, clearance at full steering lock and suspension travel, load index, speed rating, or what your vehicle maker approves. Before changing size, check your door-jamb placard and owner's manual and ask a tire professional. A replacement tire must meet or exceed the load index and speed rating on the placard.