245/70R17 Tire Size Guide

The 245/70R17 code breaks down into four basic parts. The 245 is the tire's section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 70 percent of that width, R means radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. For this size, that works out to a sidewall height of about 6.75 inches and an overall diameter of about 30.5 inches.

Unlike older numeric or alphanumeric vintage sizes, a modern metric code like 245/70R17 tells you width, profile, construction, and wheel diameter directly. What it does not tell you by itself is the tire's load capacity, speed rating, tread type, or sidewall style, so those details still need to be checked on the full sidewall marking and against the vehicle's actual requirements.

The 245/70R17 fits a 17-inch wheel, which is 431.8 millimeters at the bead seat. That wheel diameter must match exactly, because the tire is built to lock onto a 17-inch rim and cannot be safely mounted on a different diameter wheel.

Wheel width matters too. In the represented fitment for this size, the acceptable rim width range is 6.50 to 8.00 inches, and staying within that span helps the tire hold its intended profile. A narrower wheel can pinch the sidewalls inward, while a wider wheel can flatten the tire shape and change how it fits the vehicle and responds on the road.

The 245/70R17 has a section width of 245 millimeters, which is about 9.65 inches. Section width is measured at the widest point of the inflated tire's sidewalls, not across the tread face that actually contacts the road.

Clearance questions usually start with section width because sidewall bulge is what tends to get close to suspension parts, frame members, and fender edges. Tread width is usually narrower than the section width, so buyers comparing this size to another option should use the sidewall-to-sidewall measurement first when thinking about space inside the wheel opening.

The 245/70R17 works out to an overall diameter of about 30.5 inches, or roughly 774.7 millimeters. That figure represents the tire's full outside height from the ground to the top when mounted and inflated.

Overall diameter affects more than appearance. It influences ride height, wheel-opening fill, gearing feel, and speedometer behavior, which is why it is one of the first measurements to compare when replacing the size with another tire. Even if two sizes fit the same 17-inch wheel, a noticeable diameter change can alter stance and clearance in ways buyers may not want.

The 245/70R17 has a sidewall height of about 6.75 inches, which equals 171.5 millimeters. That number is measured from the wheel's bead seat up to the outer edge of the tread on one side of the tire.

A sidewall of that height is part of what gives a 70-series tire its taller, fuller profile compared with lower-profile sizes. In practical terms, sidewall height affects ride cushioning, the way the tire fills the wheel opening, and how much visual sidewall you see once the tire is mounted. Buyers moving from a lower-profile fitment often notice the difference in both appearance and road feel.

The 245/70R17 turns about 661.2 revolutions per mile. That figure is based on the tire's approximate circumference of 95.82 inches and shows how many full rotations it makes over one mile of travel.

Revolutions per mile matter when comparing substitute sizes because a tire that spins more or fewer times per mile can affect speedometer and odometer readings. Buyers who are evaluating another size on the same vehicle should compare revs per mile along with overall diameter, since both measurements help show whether the replacement will behave similarly in everyday driving.

The 245/70R17 is commonly associated with modern trucks, vans, SUVs, and utility-focused passenger applications rather than small cars or older restoration-era fitments. It appears across model years from 2002 through 2026, which places it firmly in regular-service radial use instead of a narrow collector-only niche.

Vehicle lists are best treated as a starting point, not an automatic fitment guarantee. A truck, van, or SUV may have used this size on some trims and a different size on others, even within the same nameplate. Buyers should compare the door-jamb placard, current sidewall markings, wheel dimensions, and available clearance before assuming the same size belongs on their particular vehicle.

No. Sharing a 17-inch rim diameter is only one part of fitment. The 245/70R17 must mount on a wheel that is both the correct diameter and within the proper width range, which in this case is 6.50 to 8.00 inches.

Backspacing, offset, brake clearance, and suspension space still matter after rim diameter and width are confirmed. A wheel that is technically 17 inches across can still create problems if the tire ends up too close to control arms, inner liners, or fender edges. Measure the full wheel-and-tire package, not just the wheel diameter, before treating this size as a straightforward replacement.

The 245/70R17 is a modern radial size, so its main appeal is everyday drivability rather than period-authentic appearance for older judged restorations. On vehicles from the modern radial era, it may still be the correct type of fitment, but on earlier collector vehicles the size and construction may look newer than the original equipment style.

Restoration goals matter here. If the build is judged on authenticity, buyers should compare the vehicle's original documentation and expected factory tire format before choosing this size. If the goal is road use and stable modern manners, radial construction can be a sensible direction, but authenticity, stance, and sidewall proportions should all be weighed before making the switch.

The 245/70R17 combines radial construction with a 70-series profile, so it generally offers a blend of everyday road manners and useful sidewall height. Compared with a lower-profile tire, it typically preserves more cushioning and a fuller tire shape while still keeping the steering and tracking characteristics buyers expect from a modern radial format.

Actual road feel depends on more than the size code alone. Vehicle weight, alignment, suspension condition, wheel width, tread design, and inflation all influence how this size behaves in braking, cornering, and highway cruising. Buyers replacing an existing 245/70R17 should compare the complete service description and intended use, not just the nominal dimensions.

Yes, the 245/70R17 has a relatively tall sidewall for a 17-inch wheel, with about 6.75 inches of sidewall height. That gives it a fuller look than many lower-profile 17-inch sizes and usually contributes to more visible sidewall flex and more compliance over imperfect pavement.

Drivers often notice this most in ride quality and wheel-opening appearance. More sidewall can help the tire absorb road irregularities, but it can also change steering response compared with a shorter-profile alternative. If the goal is to keep the vehicle's current stance and road feel, overall diameter, sidewall height, and wheel width should all be compared before changing away from this size.

The 245/70R17 is a modern radial size, so it is generally aligned with regular street use on contemporary trucks, vans, SUVs, and similar vehicles. Its dimensions make it substantial enough for utility-oriented applications while still remaining within a mainstream passenger-style metric format rather than an extreme specialty size.

Road behavior still depends on the exact tire chosen and the condition of the vehicle underneath it. Suspension wear, alignment settings, cargo load, and tire age can all change how stable or predictable the vehicle feels at speed. Before long highway trips, buyers should inspect condition, confirm the tire's service description, and make sure the overall setup matches the vehicle's real use.

BFGoodrich is represented in the 245/70R17 size here. Brand availability matters, but the more important question is whether the specific tire's construction, service description, and intended use actually match the vehicle and the way it is driven.

A quality choice in this size starts with the basics: correct dimensions, correct wheel fit, correct load support, and a tread pattern suited to the vehicle's real duties. Buyers should also pay attention to consistency across the full set, since mixing different constructions or service levels can change road feel and wear behavior even when the nominal size matches.

Quality in the 245/70R17 starts with fitment accuracy and appropriate service capability, not just brand recognition. A well-chosen tire in this size should match the 17-inch wheel, sit correctly on a 6.50 to 8.00 inch rim, and support the vehicle's actual weight and use pattern without forcing compromises in clearance or profile.

Construction details and intended role matter just as much. Some buyers need a daily-use replacement for a truck or SUV, while others may be more concerned with sidewall appearance and uniformity across a matched set. Looking at the full sidewall specification, weight, load figure, and overall dimensions will tell you more than the size code alone when comparing quality.

Yes, keeping all four 245/70R17 tires matched as closely as possible is usually the best approach. Matching size is only the first step; matched construction, tread type, and service description help preserve predictable handling, even wear, and balanced road behavior.

A mixed set can create differences in diameter, load support, or response even when every tire says 245/70R17 on the sidewall. That can show up as uneven ride quality, steering feel changes, or inconsistent wear patterns. If one tire must be replaced on its own, buyers should compare the new tire's complete specifications carefully against the remaining tires already on the vehicle.

A 245/70R17 in regular service should be inspected routinely for cracking, cuts, bulges, punctures, irregular wear, and signs of air loss. Frequent checks matter even more on trucks, vans, and utility vehicles because changing loads and road conditions can expose tire problems earlier than mileage alone suggests.

Inspection should include both shoulders, the tread surface, and the sidewalls, plus a quick look at how evenly the tire is sitting on the wheel. Uneven wear can point to alignment, inflation, or suspension issues rather than a problem with the size itself. Before longer trips, a more careful walkaround is a sensible habit for any vehicle running this size.

Tread depth is only one part of the picture. A 245/70R17 can age out before it wears out, especially if it has seen years of heat, sunlight, heavy load cycles, or long periods of underuse. Cracking, hardening, repeated air loss, or impact damage can all make replacement necessary even when the grooves still look usable.

Age-related condition checks matter on regularly driven vehicles as much as on occasional-use vehicles. Buyers should read the tire's current sidewall markings, inspect for visible deterioration, and think about how the vehicle is actually used. If the tire's condition, age, or wear pattern is in doubt, a qualified tire professional should inspect it before continued road use.

The 245/70R17 is normally a tubeless fitment. Modern radial sizes in this format are generally used without tubes, but tube use is still a wheel-and-tire-system question rather than a size question by itself.

Wheel condition, wheel design, and the exact tire being used all affect whether a tube is appropriate. Buyers should confirm the setup against the actual wheel and tire in service, especially if the wheel has been modified, repaired, or adapted from another application. When there is any doubt, it is worth having a tire professional inspect the full assembly before mounting.

The 245/70R17 should be replaced when it shows cracking, bulges, exposed cords, repeated air loss, impact damage, or wear severe enough to compromise road use. Replacement timing also depends on age and condition, not just tread depth, because an older tire can become less trustworthy even if it still looks usable at a glance.

Before extended driving, inspect the full tire carefully and compare all four tires on the vehicle for uneven wear or visible deterioration. Utility vehicles often see load changes, rougher pavement, and longer trip distances, so condition checks are especially important. If the tire's serviceability is uncertain, a qualified tire professional should evaluate it before the vehicle returns to the road.

In the represented specification for this size, the 245/70R17 is rated at 3,000 pounds at 80 psi. That figure applies to one tire and must be matched to the exact tire being used, since service description and intended application can vary even within the same nominal size.

Load capacity should be checked against the vehicle's actual axle demands, cargo habits, and original tire placard rather than guessed from the size alone. Inflation and load work together, so the pressure number should never be separated from the rating it supports. Buyers replacing this size on a truck or van should verify that the complete tire specification meets the vehicle's real requirements.

Highway use and legal compliance are not determined by the 245/70R17 size code alone. Buyers should review the full sidewall markings, confirm the service description and speed rating on the exact tire, and check any local or state requirements that may apply to the vehicle and the way it is used.

An S speed rating appears in the represented full size marking for this size, but that does not turn every 245/70R17 into the same tire. Condition, age, inflation, wheel compatibility, and load all affect whether a tire is appropriate for real road use. Before interstate travel, inspect the tires thoroughly and make sure the complete wheel-and-tire package is in proper condition.