How Tall Are 255/75R17 Tires? | Diameter, Width & Specs

255/75R17 tires measure 32.1 inches tall (about 32 inches) with a 10.0-inch section width, fitted to a 17-inch wheel.

The answer to how tall 255/75R17 tires are comes down to the metric sizing system: the 255 is the section width in millimeters, the 75 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and the R17 tells you it fits a 17-inch rim. That combination lands at a 32.1-inch overall diameter, which is why these tires are often referred to as 32-inch tires in the off-road community.

Full 255/75R17 Spec Breakdown

These figures are consistent across tire-size databases, though individual brands can vary slightly by tenths of an inch. The table below gives you the complete dimensional picture so you can check fitment against your truck or SUV before you buy.

Spec Measurement
Overall diameter 32.1 inches / 814.3 mm
Section width 255 mm / about 10.0 inches
Rim diameter 17 inches / 431.8 mm
Sidewall height About 7.5 inches / 191.3 mm
Circumference About 100.5–100.7 inches
Revolutions per mile 629
Common rim width range 6.5–8.5 inches

The sidewall height matters almost as much as the overall diameter. Because the 75-series aspect ratio means the sidewall is 75% of 255 mm, you get a tall, flexible sidewall that absorbs trail impacts well—a key reason this size is popular on trucks and SUVs that see dirt duty.

Real Tires vs. The Math

No two tire models measure exactly the same even when the size label matches. The tire-size database shows that a BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM in LT255/75R17 comes in at 32.1 inches tall, while a Goodyear Wrangler SR-A in P255/75R17 also measures 32.1 inches—but those two tires differ substantially in weight, load range, tread depth, and intended use.

That distinction matters: the LT (light truck) construction uses a stronger casing, carries a higher load rating, and typically weighs more, while the P (passenger) version rides smoother and lighter. The 255/75R17 tire-size reference from TireSize.com lists both construction types and confirms that overall diameter can shift by a few tenths of an inch between brands.

You should also check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or door jamb sticker for the exact rim width your truck was designed for. A tire’s measured rim is usually 7.0 inches for this size, but the safe mounting range goes from 6.5 to 8.5 inches, so wheels at either end of that range can work depending on the tire model.

Why 32 Inches?

The 32.1-inch overall diameter is exactly why this tire size is so common. It fits many half-ton trucks and SUVs without a lift kit, clears fenders without rubbing at stock ride height, and still gives you enough ground clearance for moderate off-road use. The 629 revolutions per mile also keeps speedometer readings accurate on vehicles that came from the factory with similar-diameter tires.

The circumference of roughly 100.5 inches is the number to use when calculating gearing changes or when comparing this size against taller 33-inch or 34-inch options. If you are shopping for replacements, our tested roundup of the best 255/75R17 tire options compares the leading models on the market today.

FAQs

Can 255/75R17 tires fit on stock rims?

Yes, on most trucks and SUVs that came with 17-inch wheels from the factory. The tire mounts on rims between 6.5 and 8.5 inches wide, so check your factory wheel width—commonly 7.0 to 7.5 inches on stock trucks—against that range before purchasing.

Do 255/75R17 tires affect speedometer accuracy?

A tire at the factory-specified diameter maintains accurate speedometer readings. Since 255/75R17 measures roughly 32.1 inches tall, it closely matches the stock diameter on many half-ton trucks. If your factory tire was a different size, use the circumference difference to estimate any speedometer error.

What is the difference between P and LT versions of this size?

P-metric tires are designed for passenger vehicles with lighter loads, ride softer, and weigh less. LT tires use stiffer casings and sidewalls, carry heavier maximum loads, and tolerate higher inflation pressures. For heavy towing or constant hauling, the LT version is the safer choice.

References & Sources

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