What size tires are on a Z71?
The tire size for a Z71 varies by year, model, and wheel option; there isn't a single fixed size. The most common OEM configurations are 275/65R18 on 18-inch wheels and 275/60R20 on 20-inch wheels. Always verify the exact size on your vehicle using the door placard or the owner's manual.
Understanding the Z71 Package
The Z71 designation identifies Chevrolet’s off-road-oriented trim for pickups and SUVs. It typically includes enhanced suspension, skid plates, a locking rear differential, and off-road tires, but the tire size itself is determined by the wheel size offered with the specific year and model. Because wheel options can vary, the actual tire size can differ from one Z71 vehicle to another even within the same generation.
Common OEM Tire Sizes by Wheel Size
The following sizes reflect typical factory configurations found on Z71-equipped Silverado 1500 and Tahoe models in recent years. Actual size on your vehicle can vary with model year, cab/bed configuration, and aftermarket replacements.
- 18-inch wheels: 275/65R18
- 20-inch wheels: 275/60R20
- 17-inch wheels (older or base configurations): 265/70R17
Note: 22-inch wheels are not standard on the Z71 package; if your vehicle has 22-inch rims, verify the exact tire size from the placard, as these are aftermarket or special-order configurations.
How to Confirm Your Exact Tire Size
To confirm your exact tire size for your Z71, use these steps:
- Open the driver’s door and locate the tire information placard on the door jamb; it lists the tire size and recommended inflation.
- Inspect the sidewall of the current tires for the size marking (for example, P275/65R18).
- Refer to the owner’s manual or GM's build sheet if you know your exact model year and configuration.
- If you’ve replaced tires, check receipts or the aftermarket tire label on the tire sidewall for the size installed.
Understanding exact specifications helps ensure proper fitment, performance, and safety. If you're considering a different size, consult a dealer or tire professional to check potential impacts on speedometer accuracy, gearing, and warranty.
What to know about changing tire sizes on a Z71
Changing wheel sizes can affect ride quality, speedometer accuracy, and the behavior of traction control systems. Manufacturers typically recommend sticking to OEM sizes for best results; if you upgrade, you may need recalibration and ensuring the tires have compatible load and speed ratings.
Summary
The Z71 designation signifies an off-road-oriented package rather than a fixed tire size. Most Z71 models ship with either 18-inch wheels (275/65R18) or 20-inch wheels (275/60R20). Always confirm the exact size on your vehicle via the door placard or owner’s manual, as production years and wheel options can cause variation. When replacing tires, consider load and speed ratings and the need for potential recalibration if you change sizes.
Is a 285 tire the same as a 33?
No, a 285 tire is not the same as a 33-inch tire because the numbers represent different dimensions: 285 refers to the tire's width in millimeters, while 33 inches typically refers to the overall height. However, a specific tire size like a 285/70R17 is close in height to a 33-inch tire, with an approximate overall diameter of 32.7 inches.
Tire sizing explained
- 285: This number in a metric tire size (like 285/70R17) is the tire's width across the tread in millimeters.
- 33: In common off-road tire terminology, "33" refers to the tire's approximate overall height in inches.
- The middle number: The number in the middle of the metric size (e.g., 70 in 285/70R17) is the aspect ratio—the height of the tire's sidewall as a percentage of its width.
- Putting it together: To find the overall diameter, you calculate the sidewall height (width multiplied by aspect ratio) and add it twice, then add the wheel diameter.
- For a 285/70R17:
- Width: 285 mm≈11.22 inches285 mm is approximately equal to 11.22 inches285 mm≈11.22 inches
- Sidewall height: 11.22 inches×0.70≈7.85 inches11.22 inches cross 0.70 is approximately equal to 7.85 inches11.22 inches×0.70≈7.85 inches
- Total height: (7.85 inches×2)+17 inch wheel≈32.7 inchesopen paren 7.85 inches cross 2 close paren plus 17 inch wheel is approximately equal to 32.7 inches(7.85 inches×2)+17 inch wheel≈32.7 inches
- For a 285/70R17:
- Why the confusion: A 285/70R17 tire is frequently called a "33-inch" tire because its actual diameter is very close to 33 inches.
What is the difference between Z71 lt and Z71 ltz?
“LTZ” is an acronym for Luxury Touring Z. LTZ packages cost more than the LT packages, because you'll get an even wider selection of standard features. Amenities like heated power mirrors, a power up/down tailgate, and LED fog lamps are standard.
What size truck is a Z71?
The z71 package for the Silverado is available across multiple trims and usually offers better ground clearance, off-road tires, skid plates, and more. Looking for a new Chevy Silverado z71 for sale in Wilkesboro and the surrounding areas? We've got plenty of options within the 1500 and 2500 models.
Are 275 tires the same as 33?
No, "275" is not the same as "33," but a specific metric size, 275/60R20, has an overall diameter of approximately 33 inches, making it nearly equivalent. The "275" refers to the tire's width in millimeters, while "33" typically refers to the tire's approximate overall diameter in inches, and "60" is the aspect ratio for that specific 275/60R20 example.
How tire sizes are read
- Metric (e.g., 275/60R20):
- 275: The width of the tire in millimeters.
- 60: The aspect ratio, meaning the height of the sidewall is 60% of the width.
- R: Radial construction.
- 20: The diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
- Inch (e.g., 33/12.50R17):
- 33: The approximate overall diameter of the tire in inches.
- 12.50: The width of the tire in inches.
- R: Radial construction.
- 17: The diameter of the wheel rim in inches.
275 vs. 33
- The number "275" alone is incomplete. A 275 tire could have a diameter of 33 inches or another size depending on its aspect ratio and wheel diameter.
- For example, a 275/60R20 tire has a total diameter of about 33 inches.
- However, a 275/55R20 tire has a total diameter of about 31.9 inches.
- To find an exact match to a 33-inch tire, you need all three numbers of the metric size (e.g., 275/60R20) or the inch size (e.g., 33/12.50R17).
