Tube and Tyre Basic Guides By Carter Hayes June 23, 2026 12 min read

How Tall Is a 315 70R17 Tire? Exact Height, Width & Dimensions

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A 315/70R17 tire is about 34.4 inches tall, 12.4 inches wide, and has an 8.7-inch sidewall. You can calculate the height by multiplying the 315 mm width by the 70% aspect ratio, then adding the 17-inch wheel diameter. Actual dimensions can vary slightly by brand, tread depth, and inflation pressure. It’s a common heavy-duty off-road size, and the details below show how it compares with other fitments.

Key Takeaways

  • A 315/70R17 tire is about 34.4 inches tall, or roughly 874 mm in overall diameter.
  • Its section width is 315 mm, which equals about 12.4 inches wide.
  • The sidewall height is about 220 mm, or 8.7 inches, based on the 70% aspect ratio.
  • It fits a 17-inch rim and is larger than common stock 265–275 mm tires.
  • Exact dimensions vary slightly by brand, tread depth, inflation pressure, and load.

What Does 315/70R17 Mean?

tire specifications and fitment

A 315/70R17 tire size tells you four key specs at a glance: 315 means the tire is 315 mm wide, 70 is the sidewall height as a percentage of that width, R indicates radial construction, and 17 shows it fits a 17-inch wheel. When you use a Tire Size Finder, you can verify this code and compare the width of the tire against your vehicle’s limits. You’re looking at a 315 mm section width, which supports strong contact patch performance. The 70 aspect ratio means the sidewall scales from that width, while the radial design gives you modern flexibility and durability. The 17-inch rim diameter locks in fitment. This size often serves trucks and SUVs, where you need traction, stability, and the freedom to move with purpose. If you’re checking fitment, read the full code, not just one number, because each segment defines a different dimension and affects compatibility. Additionally, this tire size is popular among off-road enthusiasts for its durable construction that enhances performance in rugged conditions.

How Tall Is a 315/70R17 Tire?

How tall is a 315/70R17 tire? You’re looking at an overall tire size of about 34.4 inches, or 874 mm, when mounted on a 17-inch wheel rim. That height comes from an 8.7-inch sidewall, which equals 70% of the 315 mm section width. This size gives you a balanced profile for clearance and load support without excess bulk. Additionally, this tire size provides optimal off-road capability for various driving conditions.

Metric Imperial Metric
Overall height 34.4 in 874 mm
Sidewall height 8.7 in 220 mm
Rim diameter 17 in 432 mm

You should treat these numbers as nominal, because manufacturers can vary slightly. Even so, the 315/70R17 remains a precise tire size definition, and its tall stance can help you claim more ground with measured confidence.

How Wide Is a 315/70R17 Tire?

Measured sidewall to sidewall, a 315/70R17 tire is about 12.4 inches wide, or 315 mm, when it’s mounted and properly inflated. That’s the core 315/70R17 tire width you’re working with, and it shapes your tire dimensions and fitment math.

  • You get a nominal section width of 315 mm.
  • You’re looking at roughly 12.4 inches across.
  • You can expect stronger traction and lateral stability.
  • You should verify fitment because brand design can shift actual width.

For you, that wider footprint can improve grip on trucks and SUVs without sacrificing control. Still, different tread constructions may measure slightly differently, so don’t assume every model matches exactly. Use the listed spec as your baseline, then compare it against your wheel and vehicle requirements. When you select the right width, you preserve handling precision, keep performance predictable, and avoid unnecessary compromises. Additionally, a wider tire can enhance traction features in various driving conditions.

What Affects 315/70R17 Tire Size?

tire size variability factors

You’ll see a 315/70R17 tire’s measured size shift with tire pressure, since inflation changes the sidewall shape and overall diameter slightly. Brand-to-brand differences also matter because manufacturers use different measurement tolerances and construction methods. Load, wheel fit, and vehicle setup can further alter the tire’s actual dimensions and performance in service. Additionally, tire performance characteristics can vary significantly based on the intended use, such as all-terrain or all-season applications.

Tire Pressure Effects

Tire pressure directly affects a 315/70R17 tire’s real-world size, because inflation changes how much the sidewall and tread spread under load. When you adjust tire pressure, you’re changing measured dimensions, not the nominal 34.4-inch height and 12.4-inch width.

  • Higher tire pressure can slightly increase height.
  • Lower tire pressure can reduce height and width.
  • Under-inflation accelerates uneven wear and weakens handling.
  • Correct pressure preserves performance, safety, and freedom of movement.

You should check inflation at operating load, because flex changes the contact patch and overall profile. Small pressure shifts matter, especially when you need accurate fitment, stable steering, and predictable ground clearance. Maintain spec pressure, and you’ll keep the tire’s dimensions closer to its intended design.

Brand Measurement Differences

Beyond inflation, brand-to-brand sizing differences also affect a 315/70R17 tire’s real-world dimensions. You’ll still see an nominal height near 34.4 inches, but actual height can shift slightly because manufacturers calibrate molds, sidewall geometry, and tread depth differently. Those brand measurement differences also influence width, which centers around 12.4 inches yet can expand or contract with carcass design. A tire with a squared shoulder won’t match a rounded profile, even when the label is identical. You should treat the spec as a reference, not an absolute. For you, that means measuring the specific model matters more than trusting the size code alone. Precise comparison lets you choose fitment with confidence and stay in control of your setup.

Load And Wheel Fit

Load and wheel fit can change how a 315/70R17 tire performs and clears on your vehicle, even though the nominal size stays the same. You need to verify these variables:

  • Wheel diameter must stay at 17 inches to preserve bead seating and intended profile.
  • Load ratings like 121/118S tell you the tire’s safe carrying capacity.
  • Overall diameter is about 34.4 inches, so suspension and fender clearance matter.
  • Section width of 12.4 inches influences rub points, steering feel, and stability.

The 70% aspect ratio gives you roughly 8.7 inches of sidewall, which affects deflection under load. If you mismatch rim size or ignore capacity, you reduce safety and lose the freedom to run this tire confidently in demanding conditions.

How Does 315/70R17 Compare to Stock Tires?

Compared with typical stock pickup and SUV tires, a 315/70R17 is substantially larger: it measures about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, versus many factory sizes that are closer to 265–275 mm in width and noticeably shorter in overall diameter. A 315/70R17 tire gives you a broader footprint than stock tires, so you gain more grip, steadier cornering, and better flotation on loose terrain. Its 70-series sidewall is also taller, which adds compliance and helps absorb impacts. This increased size can enhance your vehicle’s off-road capability, allowing for improved traction and stability across various terrains.

Metric 315/70R17
Height 34.4 in
Width 12.4 in
Stock width range 265–275 mm

You’ll also need enough wheel well clearance, because the extra diameter and width can rub at full lock or compression. If you’re seeking more capability and freedom off-road, this size moves you decisively beyond conservative factory fitment.

What Vehicles Use 315/70R17 Tires?

You’ll typically find 315/70R17 tires on heavy-duty pickups and SUVs that need higher load capacity, stronger traction, and better stability. Common fitments include the Ford F-250, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, and Ram 2500, especially when you’re targeting towing or payload demands. You’ll also see this size on off-road builds, where its wider footprint and larger diameter improve grip on uneven terrain. Additionally, these tires are designed to enhance off-road traction while maintaining comfort during daily driving.

Common Vehicle Types

315/70R17 tires are commonly found on larger pickups and SUVs built for off-road, towing, and heavy-duty use, where the tire’s 34.4-inch overall diameter and 12.4-inch width help improve ground clearance, traction, and stability. In these common vehicle types, you get a setup that supports control without surrendering capability.

  • Ford F-250
  • Chevrolet Silverado 2500
  • Toyota Tundra
  • Heavy-duty SUVs

You’ll usually see 315/70R17 tires on platforms that prioritize payload, towing, and rugged terrain performance. Their broad footprint helps you maintain grip on loose surfaces, while the tall sidewall aids compliance over obstacles. If you want mechanical freedom and utility, this size fits vehicles engineered for demanding work and remote travel.

That 34.4-inch tire size shows up most often on heavy-duty pickups and SUVs built for towing, hauling, and off-road use. You’ll see the 315/70R17 tire size on popular truck fitments like the Ford F-250, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, and Toyota Tundra. With about 12.4 inches of tread width, it gives you a broader contact patch, better lateral stability, and stronger traction under load. The taller diameter also raises ground clearance, so you can keep moving when terrain gets rough or obstacles stack up. If you’re choosing among popular truck fitments, this size gives you a balanced package of control, durability, and capability. Many all-terrain and mud-terrain options in this size let you tune performance without surrendering the freedom to work hard and travel farther.

SUV And Off-Road Uses

On SUVs and off-road trucks, the 315/70R17 tire size is a common choice because its 34.4-inch overall diameter and roughly 12.4-inch width improve ground clearance, traction, and stability on rough terrain. You’ll see this 315/70R17 tire on vehicles built for work and freedom, where off-road capabilities matter more than convenience. Typical fitments include:

  • Toyota Tundra
  • Ford F-250
  • Chevrolet Silverado 2500
  • Heavy-duty SUVs and similar rigs

This size works well for all-terrain use, so you can drive pavement and trail without changing tires. Many versions also carry a 3PMSF rating, giving you better winter control. If you want clearance, grip, and load stability, this setup gives you a technical advantage.

What Are the Load and Speed Ratings?

load and speed ratings

The load and speed ratings tell you how much weight a 315/70R17 tire can safely carry and how fast it can run under specified test conditions. For this size, the typical load rating is 121, which means you can support up to 3,195 lbs, or 1,450 kg, when you keep pressure at spec. The common speed rating is S, so you’re limited to 112 mph, or 180 km/h, in controlled testing. These numbers aren’t suggestions; they’re design limits that protect you from heat buildup, casing stress, and sudden failure. If you exceed either value, you compromise grip, stability, and tire life. You should always check the sidewall because load rating and speed ratings can vary by brand and model. Use the exact markings on your tire, not assumptions, so you keep your vehicle capable, safe, and free from avoidable mechanical constraints. Additionally, evaluating treadwear ratings can provide insight into the expected lifespan of your tires.

What Are the Best Alternate Sizes?

If you want the closest size match to a 315/70R17, 275/70R17 is a narrower option at about 32.2 inches tall, while 33×12.50R17 gives you a similar diameter with more section width. You can also consider a 35×12.50R17 for a plus-size fit that adds ground clearance, but you’ll need to verify wheelwell and suspension clearance to avoid rubbing. These alternate sizes trade fitment tolerance against traction and stance, so you should choose based on your vehicle’s available space and performance goals. Additionally, selecting the right tire can enhance off-road capability while ensuring a comfortable ride.

Closest Size Matches

When you’re comparing alternate sizes for a 315/70R17, the closest common matches are 33×12.50R17 and 275/70R17, since both keep the overall diameter near the tire’s 34.4-inch height.

  • 33×12.50R17: nearly the same stance, with slight diameter loss.
  • 275/70R17: narrower section width, reduced footprint.
  • 35×12.50R17: taller by about 0.6 inch, but still close.
  • Check clearance, load rating, and steering geometry before you choose.

These closest size matches help you preserve speedometer accuracy, ride height, and traction balance. If you want alternate sizes that support off-road freedom without major fitment changes, these options stay within a tight dimensional window. Verify wheel width and suspension space, because even small deviations can affect rubbing and handling.

Plus/Minus Fitment Options

Looking beyond the closest size matches, plus/minus fitment gives you a more structured way to compare alternate tire options for a 315/70R17. The 315/70R17 tire measures about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, so you can benchmark changes precisely. A 325/70R17 adds a bit of height and width, while a 305/70R17 trims width slightly and keeps diameter close. These alternate tire sizes let you tune stance and footprint without drifting far from OEM geometry. You should verify the wheel’s offset, suspension travel, and manufacturer limits before you choose. This analysis helps you move with intention, not guesswork, and protects compatibility with vehicle dynamics. Use official specifications to confirm the safest, most liberated fit for your setup.

Clearance And Performance Tradeoffs

A 315/70R17 tire’s 34.4-inch overall height gives you strong ground clearance, but that advantage comes with real tradeoffs in weight, steering response, and fuel use. You should weigh clearance and performance tradeoffs before choosing alternate sizes. Smaller or similar-diameter options can free your vehicle from excess drag while preserving capability.

  • 275/70R17: similar height, lighter, better efficiency
  • 33×12.50R17: near-match diameter, balanced off-road grip
  • 305/70R17: slightly lower, about 33.8 inches
  • OEM-approved sizes: protect handling and safety

If you want tighter on-road control, a smaller tire can improve stability and ride comfort. Keep the aspect ratio consistent with your goals, because even small changes alter dynamics. Always verify fitment against OEM guidelines before you commit.

How Do You Check Tire Pressure?

To check tire pressure accurately, use a reliable tire pressure gauge and compare the reading against the manufacturer’s recommended PSI listed on the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. You should check tire pressure when the tires are cold, because driving heats the air and skews readings. Do this at least monthly and before long trips to maintain control and efficiency.

Step Action
1 Remove each valve cap.
2 Press the gauge firmly.
3 Read PSI and compare.
4 Adjust air as needed.
5 Recheck for consistency.

If you want a secondary verification, use the Tire Pressure Chalk Test: mark the tread with chalk, drive briefly, and inspect wear. Uneven wear suggests incorrect inflation. Under-inflated tires reduce handling and waste fuel; over-inflated tires increase uneven wear and blowout risk. When you check tire pressure with discipline, you preserve performance, safety, and freedom on the road. Additionally, having a portable tire inflator can be beneficial for quick adjustments on the go, especially during road trip top-offs.

Will 315/70R17 Tires Fit Your Vehicle?

Will a 315/70R17 tire fit your vehicle? You can’t assume fit from diameter alone. At about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, the 315/70R17 tire demands sufficient clearance in your wheel wells, steering arc, and suspension travel. Check your vehicle specifications first; that’s how you avoid rubbing and preserve control. This size suits many trucks and SUVs, but only if the chassis and offset support it.

  • Verify clearance at full lock and compression
  • Confirm load rating 121S meets your axle needs
  • Match the radial construction to your setup
  • Review the owner manual or ask a tire pro

A 315/70R17 tire carries up to 3,195 lbs per tire, so it can support serious loads. Still, liberation from compromise starts with precise measurement. If your vehicle specifications don’t align, choose another size. Additionally, tire load ratings play a crucial role in determining the suitability for your vehicle’s capacity and performance needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 315 70 17 the Same as 35 12.5 17?

No, you won’t treat a 315/70R17 and a 35/12.5R17 as the same tire. In tire comparisons, size conversions show the 315/70R17 is about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, while the 35/12.5R17 is roughly 35 inches tall and 12.5 inches wide. You’ll notice the difference is small, but it can affect fitment, gearing, clearance, and handling on your vehicle.

Which Tire Is Taller, a 65 or 70?

A 70 tire stands taller, like a rung set higher on the ladder you climb. In a height comparison, the tire aspect matters: 70 means the sidewall equals 70% of the width, while 65 means 65%. With the same width, you’ll get more overall diameter from the 70, so it’s the taller choice. You can trust that extra sidewall to carry more clearance, more presence, and more freedom.

How Much Bigger Is a 315 Tire Than a 285?

A 315 tire is about 1.7 inches taller and 1.2 inches wider than a 285, so you’re looking at clear size differences in tire comparisons. You’ll also gain a bit more ground clearance, but you may sacrifice some fuel economy and handling precision. Because both use a 70% aspect ratio, the larger width drives the height increase. Before you upgrade, make sure your wheel wells can handle it without rubbing.

How Tall and Wide Is a 315 70 17 Tire?

You’re clearly meant to trust a tire’s numbers like they’re state secrets. A 315/70R17 stands about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, with an 8.7-inch sidewall. You’re dealing with tire specifications that support exact size conversions, especially on a 17-inch rim. That geometry gives you a broad footprint, stable handling, and measured freedom from guesswork. Brand variations can shift dimensions slightly, so check the manufacturer’s data.

Conclusion

So, if you’re checking 315/70R17 tires, you’re looking at a tire that’s about 35.4 inches tall, about 12.4 inches wide, and built for a 17-inch wheel. You should compare load rating, speed rating, and clearance before you buy. You should also verify pressure, suspension, and offset before you install. Measure carefully, calculate accurately, and confirm fitment thoroughly, because the right size gives you the right performance, the right safety, and the right results.

Carter Hayes

Carter Hayes

Author

Carter Hayes is the founder and lead automotive editor of TubeTyre, an online resource focused on tyre reviews, buying guides, and practical automotive maintenance. With more than ten years of experience in the automotive field, Carter guides the site’s editorial strategy and review process. His work centers on making tyre and vehicle-care information easier for everyday drivers to understand, while maintaining a strong focus on testing standards and editorial trust.

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