235/50R17 Tire Size

All You Need to Know About 235/50R17 Tires

235/50R17 defines a tire that is 235 mm wide, with a 50% aspect ratio and a 17-inch wheel diameter, producing an overall diameter of ≈26.3 inches and a sidewall height of ≈4.63 inches.

The 235/50R17 size sits at the upper end of the 50-series passenger range, where overall diameter moves into the mid-26-inch band while maintaining a relatively low sidewall profile. 

Compared to narrower 50-series sizes, such as 205/50R17 and 215/50R17, the 235/50R17 increases section width and total diameter, positioning it closer to midsize sedan and performance-oriented fitments rather than compact platforms.

Although dimensionally identical to 235/50R17, P235/50R17 follows passenger load ratings and is typically supplied in SL configurations. As a result, load capacity should be matched to OE specifications, not inferred from size alone.

235/50R17 Size Quick Specs

• Approved rim width range: 6.5–8.5"
• Measuring/design rim: 7.5 inches
• Overall diameter: ≈26.3"
• Section width: 235 mm
• Sidewall height: 117.5 mm
• Fits: 17-inch wheels/rims

Note: The ≈26.3-inch calculated diameter of the 235/50R17 tire size may differ by ±0.1–0.3 inches once mounted, due to variations in casing structure and tread design.

235/50R17 Common Vehicle Fitments

Confirmed US-market applications for 235/50R17 tires include:

• Acura RL (1996–2004)
• Buick LaCrosse (2009–2016) and Regal (2011–2013) 
• Cadillac DeVille (1990–1993) and STS (2004–2012), DeVille (1990-1993)
• Chevrolet Colorado (2004–2011) 
• Ford Fusion (2013–2021, select trims) 
• Dodge Caravan (1987-2000) and Grand Caravan (selected years)
• Infinity G (2002-2007)
• Kia K5 (20015-2026), Optima (2016-2020)
• Lexus ES, GS (specific years)

These fitments show that 235/50R17 is used primarily on domestic near-luxury and midsize platforms in the US market. Because usage depends on trim level, year and wheel setup, the vehicle placard remains the final authority for correct replacement.

235/50R17 Dimensions in Inches

The 235/50R17 tire size is 9.25 inches wide, 26.3 inches tall, and has a sidewall height of about 4.63 inches.

At ≈26.3 inches in diameter, the 235/50R17 circumference is ≈82.7 inches, representing the distance traveled in one full rotation. 

235/50R17 in Inches: All Measurements

• Overall diameter: ≈26.3"
• Width: 9.25" (≈9.3")
• Sidewall height: 4.63" (≈4.6")
• Wheel diameter: 17"
• Circumference: 82.46" (≈82.5")

Most Recommended 235/50R17 Tires

Best tires in 235/50R17 size include:

• 235/50R17 all-season tires: Kumho Ecsta Sport A/S PA71, Toyo Extensa A/S II
• Snow tires 235/50R17: Continental VikingContact 7, Toyo Observe GSI-6 HP
• Affordable 235/50R17 tires: Ironman iMove Gen 3 AS, GT Radial MaxTour LX
• 235/50R17 set of 4 (best price): General AltiMax RT45, Hankook Ventus S1 AS H125

Comparison of 235/50R17 With Similar Tire Sizes

235/50R17 sits above narrower 50-series passenger sizes and overlaps with taller 60-series alternatives in smaller widths. 

Compared to 215/50R17, 235/50R17 increases both width and overall diameter. Compared to 225/60R17, it shifts toward a wider but lower-profile configuration while staying close in total diameter. These two comparisons define how the size behaves within the 17-inch passenger category.

Difference Between 235/50R17 and 215/50R17 Tire Sizes

The 235/50R17 is wider and slightly taller than the 215/50R17:

• Width: 235/50R17 is 20 mm wider than 215/50R17
• Overall diameter: 235/50R17 is ≈0.78 inches (≈3.1%) larger than 215/50R17

The difference in OD between 235/50R17 and 215/50R17 is right at the ±3% threshold, which places these sizes at the limit of interchangeability. In practice, the increase in both width and diameter requires checking clearance and rim compatibility before switching.

Difference Between 235/50R17 and 225/60R17 Tire Sizes

The 225/60R17 is narrower but significantly taller than the 235/50R17:

• Width: 225/60R17 is 10 mm narrower than 235/50R17
• Overall diameter: 225/60R17 is ≈0.37 inches (≈1.4%) larger than 235/50R17

The difference in OD between 235/50R17 and 225/60R17 remains within the ±3% threshold, so these sizes are generally interchangeable from a diameter perspective. The change shifts proportions rather than size class: 225/60R17 increases sidewall height, while 235/50R17 increases section width.

For safe diameter limits when switching to or from 235/50R17, see the 3% tire size rule guide.