Can I use 185 65R15 instead of 175 65R15 on Honda City?
In many Honda City variants with 15-inch wheels, 175/65R15 is the standard tire size. An 185/65R15 is wider and slightly larger in overall diameter, so fitment depends on your exact model year, trim, and wheel setup. It's not universally recommended and you should verify with the owner's manual or a tire professional before changing sizes.
Understanding tire size differences
Here's how the numbers compare and what they mean for fitment and performance.
- Width: 185 mm vs 175 mm means a tire about 10 mm wider. This can affect clearance inside the wheel arch and contact with suspension components or fenders.
- Diameter: 185/65R15 yields a larger overall diameter than 175/65R15 (roughly 24.46" vs 23.95", about 2% larger). That changes the rolling circumference and can influence ride feel and clearance.
- Speedometer and odometer: The increased diameter can cause a minor speedometer under-reading (your actual speed could be ~2% higher than indicated) and a small odometer error.
- Load index and speed rating: Ensure the replacement tire has an equal or higher load index and a compatible speed rating to meet the vehicle’s safety requirements.
In short, the 185/65R15 tire can technically fit on some configurations, but it introduces trade-offs in clearance, instrument accuracy, and driving feel that should be carefully evaluated.
Fitment and clearance considerations
Before attempting a swap, consider these fitment factors to determine if 185/65R15 can be accommodated by your Honda City:
- Wheel width and rim compatibility: Check that your rims are within the permissible width for 185 mm tires (commonly 5.5J–6.0J on many 15-inch setups).
- Fender and suspension clearance: A wider tire can rub against fenders or suspension components, especially during full steering lock or when the suspension compresses.
- Brakes and caliper clearance: Ensure the wider tire does not contact brake components or calipers on your specific brake setup.
- Offset and tire fit: The vehicle’s stock offset and wheel geometry determine how much inner and outer clearance you have with larger tires.
Concluding this section, fitment is not guaranteed and depends on the exact model year, trim, and wheels. A professional fitment check is essential if you’re considering this change.
How to proceed if you want to switch
Steps to take before committing to 185/65R15 on a Honda City:
- Check the owner’s manual or door placard for the OEM tire size and approved alternatives for your exact model and wheel setup.
- Confirm with a tire shop or dealer whether 185/65R15 is physically and legally acceptable on your car’s year/trim and with your wheels.
- Have the technician measure clearances at full suspension compression and full steering lock to rule out rubbing.
- Ensure the replacement tire’s load index and speed rating meet or exceed the OEM requirements.
- If you proceed, monitor vehicle dynamics (steering effort, braking feel, ride quality) and re-check alignment and sensor readings after installation; consider speedometer calibration if needed.
After installation, stay alert for any rubbing, unusual tire wear, or warning lights. If clearance issues arise, revert to the OEM size or select a properly approved alternative.
Performance, safety, and warranty considerations
Wider tires can subtly affect steering response, steering effort, braking feel, and fuel economy. They also interact with the car’s stability/assist systems and may influence warranty coverage if the size is not approved by the manufacturer. Always prioritize OEM specifications or manufacturer-approved alternatives and consult a qualified service professional if you’re unsure.
Summary
Can you run 185/65R15 on a Honda City instead of 175/65R15? It may be possible on some configurations, but it is not universal and carries potential trade-offs, including clearance risk, speedometer inaccuracy, and altered ride characteristics. Verify the exact OEM size for your model, have a professional check fitment, and proceed only if the upgrade is officially approved for your car and wheels.
Can we use 185 tires instead of 175?
Yes. The 185 is the width of the tire. Most rims that support a 175mm wide tires will easily handle a 185mm wide tire. 185/70R15 is a typical tire size.
What is the best tyre size for a Honda City?
Sir 205/55 R15 is the best size.
What's the difference between a 175 and a 185 tire?
The main difference is that a 185 tire is 10 millimeters wider than a 175 tire. Both numbers represent the width of the tire in millimeters, so a 185 is a full centimeter wider. This also makes the 185 tire slightly taller and gives it a larger contact patch with the road.
| Feature | 175 Tire | 185 Tire |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 175 mm | 185 mm |
| Difference | Narrower by 10 mm | Wider by 10 mm |
| Impact | Smaller contact patch, slightly different height and circumference | Larger contact patch, slightly different height and circumference |
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Other factors to consider:
- Sidewall height: The numbers after the slash (e.g., "65" in 175/65R15) indicate the sidewall's height as a percentage of the tire's width. A 185/65R15 will have a slightly taller sidewall than a 175/65R15 because the 65% is calculated on a larger width.
- Overall diameter: Because of the difference in width and sidewall height, the overall diameter of a 185 tire is slightly larger than a 175 tire, which can cause minor changes to your speedometer reading and odometer.
- Performance: The wider 185 tire provides a larger contact patch, which can lead to better grip and traction. However, it can also cause the speedometer to read a bit differently and may have a slightly different load rating.
- Compatibility: Generally, you can fit a 185 tire on a rim designed for a 175 tire, but it's important to check your vehicle's specifications. However, it is crucial to maintain consistency across all four wheels for proper handling, safety, and to avoid damage to your vehicle's drivetrain.
- Load rating: Load rating indicates the maximum weight a tire can carry. A 185 tire may have a higher load rating than a 175 tire, which is a significant factor to consider if your vehicle carries heavy loads.
- Speed rating: The last number or letter in the tire code is the speed rating. If the speed rating is different between a 175 and 185 tire, consider the implications for your driving habits.
Can I use 185 65r15 instead of 175 65r15?
Yes, it will fit, and will probably work just fine. The difference is literally 10mm of tread width, which is only about 3/8 of in inch. It's not perfect, but it won't adversely affect the ride or handling.
