When it comes to choosing the right set of wheels for your car, there are a lot of factors to consider. But once you’ve decided on the perfect set of rims, how do you know which tires will fit? It’s important to get the right size and type of tire to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here’s a quick guide to help you select the right tires for your wheels.
What are the 3 measurements used to determine rim size?
There are three primary measurements used to determine the size of a wheel or rim: the diameter, width, and bolt pattern.
The diameter is the most important measurement, as it determines the overall size of the wheel. The width is the second most important measurement, as it affects how much tire can be mounted on the wheel and how wide the stance of the vehicle will be. The bolt pattern is the third measurement, and it determines how the wheel will attach to the vehicle.
How to measure wheel diameter?
The easiest way to measure wheel diameter is to simply look at the side of the tire. The number listed after the “R” is the diameter of the wheel in inches. For example, a tire with an “R18” designation would have a 18-inch diameter.
To get a more accurate measurement, you can use a tape measure to measure the distance from one point on the outer edge of the wheel to the opposite point on the outer edge. This measurement should be taken at the widest part of the wheel.

How to measure wheel width?
Wheel width can be measured in a similar fashion to diameter, by using a tape measure to find the distance between the inner edges of the wheel. This measurement should also be taken at the widest part of the wheel.
Another method of measuring width is to look at the sidewall of the tire. The width will be listed after the “R” designation, in millimeters. For example, a tire with an “R18” designation would have a width of 225mm.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket rims?
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) rims are those that come standard on a new car. Aftermarket rims are those that are purchased separately and added to the car. Aftermarket rims are often larger in size than OEM rims and may have a different bolt pattern.
Can you fit wheels with different bolt pattern?
Never install wheels whose bolt pattern does not match your vehicle’s OE, even if the sizes seem close. Installing a wheel with the wrong bolt pattern can be dangerous.
How do I know if a tire will fit my car?
There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting tires for your vehicle. First, you’ll need to know the size of the tire. Tire sizes are indicated by a series of numbers and letters, such as 225/50R17. The first number is the width of the tire in millimeters, while the second number is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. The R indicates that the tire is a radial tire, and the 17 is the diameter of the wheel in inches.
Conclusion
When selecting tires for your wheels, it’s important to keep in mind the diameter, width, and bolt pattern of the wheel. You’ll also need to know the size of the tire you need. Once you have all of this information, you can be sure to select a tire that will fit your wheel and provide optimal performance for your car.