2017 Honda Accord Tire Size – The Ultimate Guide To Selection, Care,

Ever stared at your tires, wondering if you’ve got the right ones, or if those numbers on the sidewall mean anything beyond a secret code? You’re not alone. For many car owners, the seemingly simple task of understanding and choosing the correct 2017 Honda Accord tire size can feel like navigating a maze.

But here at FatBoysOffroad, we believe every driver, from the daily commuter to the weekend DIYer, deserves to feel confident under the hood and on the road. That’s why we’re here to cut through the jargon and give you the straight talk on everything tire-related for your beloved 2017 Honda Accord.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll demystify your Accord’s tire specifications, walk you through the process of selecting the perfect replacements, share expert maintenance tips, and even touch on smart upgrades. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have all the knowledge to ensure your Accord rolls safely, efficiently, and comfortably for miles to come. Let’s get rolling!

Decoding Your 2017 Honda Accord Tire Size: What the Numbers Mean

The first step to mastering your Accord’s tires is understanding the numbers and letters stamped on the sidewall. This isn’t just random info; it’s a precise blueprint of your tire’s dimensions and capabilities. Think of it as your 2017 Honda Accord tire size guide.

Finding Your OE Tire Size

Before we dive into the details, let’s locate your original equipment (OE) tire size. The easiest place to find this crucial information is on the sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb. Sometimes, it’s also in your owner’s manual or on the inside of the glove box door.

For most 2017 Honda Accord models, you’ll typically find one of two primary OE tire sizes, depending on the trim level:

205/65R16
215/55R17
235/45R18

These are your starting points. Any replacement tire should generally match these specifications unless you’re intentionally opting for an upgrade, which we’ll discuss later.

Understanding Tire Sidewall Markings

Let’s break down those numbers and letters you see on the sidewall, using 215/55R17 94V as an example. This is fundamental for understanding any 2017 Honda Accord tire size.

215: This is the section width of the tire, measured in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. Wider tires generally offer more grip but can impact fuel economy.
55: This is the aspect ratio. It’s the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width. So, 55 means the sidewall height is 55% of 215mm. A lower aspect ratio means a shorter sidewall, often found on sportier tires.
R: This indicates the tire’s construction type, with ‘R’ standing for radial. Almost all modern passenger car tires are radial.
17: This is the diameter of the wheel (rim) the tire is designed to fit, measured in inches. This number must match your Accord’s wheel size exactly.
94: This is the load index. It’s a numerical code that corresponds to the maximum weight capacity each tire can safely support. A 94 load index means each tire can carry up to 1,477 lbs (670 kg). Always match or exceed your vehicle’s specified load index.
V: This is the speed rating. It’s an alphabetical code indicating the maximum speed at which the tire can safely carry its rated load. ‘V’ means up to 149 mph (240 km/h). Your Accord doesn’t need to go that fast, but it indicates the tire’s performance capabilities.

Knowing these markings is the first step in making informed decisions about your tires.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your 2017 Honda Accord: Beyond the Basics

Selecting the right tires isn’t just about matching the numbers. It’s about optimizing your driving experience, ensuring safety, and getting the most out of your investment. Here are some 2017 Honda Accord tire size tips for making the best choice.

All-Season vs. Performance vs. Winter Tires

The type of tire you choose dramatically impacts your Accord’s handling and safety:

All-Season Tires: These are the most common choice for the Accord. They offer a good balance of performance in various conditions – dry, wet, and light snow. They are a practical choice for most drivers in moderate climates.
Performance Tires: Designed for enhanced grip, handling, and responsiveness in dry and wet conditions. They often have a lower aspect ratio and stiffer sidewalls. While they offer a sportier feel, they might wear faster and be less effective in cold or snowy weather.
Winter Tires: If you live in an area with harsh winters, dedicated winter tires are a game-changer. Their specialized rubber compounds stay flexible in cold temperatures, and aggressive tread patterns provide superior grip on snow and ice.

Factors to Consider: Driving Style, Climate, Budget

Your personal circumstances should guide your tire choice:

Driving Style: Do you mostly commute on highways, or do you enjoy spirited driving on winding roads? A daily driver might prioritize comfort and longevity, while an enthusiast might lean towards performance.
Climate: As mentioned, your local weather conditions are paramount. Don’t compromise on safety if you face regular snow and ice.
Budget: Tires are an investment. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality tires impact safety, fuel economy, and overall driving enjoyment. Balance cost with expected lifespan and performance.

The Benefits of Proper Tire Selection

Making an informed choice has numerous advantages:

Enhanced Safety: The right tires provide optimal grip, braking, and handling, crucial for avoiding accidents.
Improved Fuel Economy: Tires with lower rolling resistance can save you money at the pump.
Better Ride Comfort: Quality tires absorb road imperfections more effectively, leading to a smoother, quieter ride.
Longer Tire Lifespan: Choosing the correct type and maintaining it properly ensures your tires last longer, delaying replacement costs.

Installation and Maintenance: 2017 Honda Accord Tire Size Best Practices

Getting the right tires is only half the battle. Proper installation and diligent maintenance are key to maximizing their lifespan and ensuring your Accord’s safety. Here’s how to 2017 Honda Accord tire size maintenance like a pro.

DIY Inspection: When to Check and What to Look For

Regular visual inspections are your first line of defense. Make it a habit to check your tires at least once a month, and always before a long trip.

Here’s what to look for:

Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge or the “penny test.” Insert a penny into a tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is shallow, and it’s time for new tires. Most states require at least 2/32″ of tread depth.
Sidewall Cracks and Bulges: These are serious warning signs. Cracks can indicate dry rot, while bulges suggest internal damage. If you spot either, have your tire inspected by a professional immediately.
Embedded Objects: Look for nails, screws, or sharp rocks stuck in the tread. Small objects can often be repaired, but larger ones or damage to the sidewall usually mean replacement.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Proper Inflation

Your Accord is equipped with a TPMS to warn you about low tire pressure, but don’t rely solely on it. Manual checks are still vital.

Proper inflation is arguably the most critical aspect of tire care. Under-inflated tires generate excessive heat, wear unevenly, reduce fuel efficiency, and can lead to blowouts. Over-inflated tires can lead to a harsher ride, reduced grip, and premature wear in the center of the tread.

Find your recommended tire pressure (typically 32-35 PSI) on the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb.
Use a reliable tire pressure gauge. Check pressure when tires are “cold” – meaning the car hasn’t been driven for at least three hours or more than a mile.
Adjust pressure as needed using an air compressor.
Check all four tires, and don’t forget your spare if your Accord has one.

This simple act, part of your 2017 Honda Accord tire size care guide, can save you money and keep you safe.

Rotation, Balancing, and Alignment: The Holy Trinity of Tire Care

These three services are crucial for extending tire life and maintaining your Accord’s handling.

Tire Rotation: Rotate your tires every 5,000-7,500 miles, or as recommended by Honda and your tire manufacturer. This helps ensure even wear across all four tires, as front and rear tires wear differently. Use the correct rotation pattern (e.g., front-to-back, cross-pattern) for your Accord.
Tire Balancing: Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations, premature wear, and stress on suspension components. Have your tires balanced whenever new ones are installed or if you notice vibrations. This involves adding small weights to the rim to distribute the tire’s weight evenly.
Wheel Alignment: Proper wheel alignment ensures your tires are correctly angled relative to the road and each other. Misalignment can cause rapid, uneven tire wear and poor handling. If you hit a significant pothole, notice your steering wheel isn’t centered, or your car pulls to one side, get an alignment check.

Adhering to these 2017 Honda Accord tire size best practices will dramatically improve your driving experience and tire longevity.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Your 2017 Honda Accord Tires

Even with the best care, tires can develop issues. Knowing how to spot and address common problems with 2017 Honda Accord tire size can save you headaches and keep you safe.

Uneven Wear Patterns: What They Tell You

Tire wear isn’t always uniform. Different patterns can signal specific underlying issues:

Wear in the Center: Often indicates over-inflation. The tire bows out, causing the center to bear more weight.
Wear on Both Edges (Shoulders): Usually a sign of under-inflation. The tire sags, putting more pressure on the edges.
Wear on One Edge: Can point to alignment issues (camber or toe problems). The wheel is angled incorrectly, causing one side of the tire to drag.
Cupping or Scalloping: Irregular dips and rises in the tread, often due to worn-out suspension components (shocks/struts) or an unbalanced tire.

If you notice any of these patterns, it’s time for a professional inspection to diagnose and correct the root cause.

Vibrations and Noises: Diagnosing Tire Issues

Your Accord should ride smoothly and quietly. If you experience new vibrations or noises, your tires might be the culprit:

Vibrations at Specific Speeds: Often a sign of unbalanced tires. This can usually be fixed with rebalancing.
Steering Wheel Shake: If the vibration is felt primarily in the steering wheel, it’s likely an issue with the front tires.
Seat or Floorboard Vibration: If you feel it more through the seat or floor, it might be the rear tires.
Humming or Roaring Noise: Can indicate tire wear (especially cupping) or a wheel bearing issue. The sound often changes with speed.
Clicking or Thumping: Could be a foreign object embedded in the tire or a separating tread. Pull over safely and inspect.

Don’t ignore these symptoms. They can quickly escalate into more serious problems.

Punctures and Repairs: When to Patch, When to Replace

A flat tire is an unwelcome surprise, but not all punctures mean a new tire.

The “Repair Zone”: Most punctures can be safely repaired if they are in the tread area (not the sidewall) and are no larger than 1/4 inch in diameter. A proper repair involves removing the tire from the rim and using a plug and patch combination from the inside.
When to Replace:
- Punctures in the sidewall or shoulder are generally not repairable.
- If the puncture is too large.
- If the tire has been driven flat for an extended period, causing internal damage.
- If there are multiple punctures too close together.
- If the tire is already at the end of its life (low tread depth).

Always have a professional evaluate tire damage. Your safety depends on it.

Upgrading Your 2017 Honda Accord Tire Size for Performance or Aesthetics

While the Accord isn’t an off-road beast, you can still optimize its road performance and look with thoughtful tire and wheel upgrades. This isn’t about massive lifts, but about fine-tuning your ride.

Plus-Sizing and Minus-Sizing: What You Need to Know

Modifying your 2017 Honda Accord tire size often involves “plus-sizing” – going to a larger diameter wheel with a shorter sidewall tire to maintain the overall tire diameter.

Plus-Sizing: This means increasing the wheel diameter (e.g., from 17-inch to 18-inch wheels) while decreasing the tire’s aspect ratio (e.g., from 55 to 45). The goal is to keep the overall tire diameter as close to the original as possible.
- Benefits: Improved handling, sharper steering response, and often a more aggressive aesthetic.
- Drawbacks: Harsher ride, increased risk of wheel damage from potholes, potentially higher tire costs.
Minus-Sizing: Less common, this involves going to a smaller wheel diameter (e.g., 17-inch to 16-inch) with a taller sidewall tire. This is often done for winter setups, allowing for a taller, narrower tire that performs better in snow, or to save on wheel costs.

Impact on Speedometer, ABS, and Ride Quality

Any change to the overall tire diameter can have significant consequences:

Speedometer Accuracy: If the new tire’s overall diameter is different from the original, your speedometer will read incorrectly. A larger diameter will make your speedometer read slower than your actual speed, and a smaller diameter will make it read faster.
ABS and Stability Control: These systems rely on accurate wheel speed sensor readings. Significant changes in tire diameter can confuse these systems, potentially impairing their function.
Ride Quality: Shorter sidewalls (common with plus-sizing) mean less cushioning, leading to a firmer, potentially harsher ride.
Clearance Issues: Always check for adequate clearance with fenders, suspension components, and brake calipers, especially when going wider or taller.

Safety Considerations and Professional Advice

While DIY is our jam, tire and wheel modifications can be complex. Always:

Consult a Tire Specialist: They have charts and tools to calculate appropriate sizes and ensure compatibility.
Prioritize Safety: Never compromise safety for aesthetics. Ensure load ratings and speed ratings are appropriate for your vehicle.
Test Drive: After any significant change, take a careful test drive to check for rubbing, vibrations, or unusual handling.

Sustainable Tire Choices for Your Accord: Eco-Friendly Options

As enthusiasts, we care about our vehicles and the planet. When considering your 2017 Honda Accord tire size, there are choices that can lessen your environmental footprint.

Low Rolling Resistance Tires

Many tire manufacturers now offer “eco-friendly” or “low rolling resistance” (LRR) tires. These tires are designed with specific compounds and tread patterns to minimize the energy lost as the tire rolls down the road.

Benefits:
- Improved fuel efficiency, leading to lower emissions and cost savings.
- Often offer comparable performance to standard all-season tires in terms of grip and longevity.
Considerations:
- May sometimes have slightly less grip in aggressive driving situations compared to dedicated performance tires.
- Initial cost might be slightly higher, but savings at the pump often offset this.

Choosing LRR tires is a practical way to make your sustainable 2017 Honda Accord tire size decision. Look for “Eco” or “Green” branding from major manufacturers.

Proper Disposal and Recycling

Tires don’t last forever, and proper disposal is crucial for environmental protection. Tires are not biodegradable and can become breeding grounds for pests or fire hazards if not handled correctly.

Recycle: Most tire shops and service centers will recycle your old tires for a small fee when you purchase new ones. They send them to facilities where they can be repurposed into playground surfaces, asphalt, or even fuel.
Check Local Regulations: If you’re disposing of tires yourself, check with your local waste management facility for specific guidelines and drop-off points.

Making responsible choices throughout the tire’s lifecycle, from selection to disposal, is part of being an environmentally conscious driver and an excellent example of eco-friendly 2017 Honda Accord tire size management.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Honda Accord Tire Size

Got more questions? We’ve got answers!

What is the recommended tire pressure for a 2017 Honda Accord?

The recommended tire pressure for your 2017 Honda Accord is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. It’s usually between 32-35 PSI (pounds per square inch) for all four tires when they are cold. Always refer to your specific vehicle’s sticker, as it can vary slightly by trim level.

How often should I rotate my Accord’s tires?

It’s generally recommended to rotate your Honda Accord’s tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or with every oil change. Regular rotation helps promote even tread wear, extending the life of your tires and maintaining balanced handling.

Can I use different tire sizes on my 2017 Honda Accord?

While you can sometimes “plus-size” or “minus-size” your tires and wheels for performance or aesthetic reasons, it’s crucial to maintain the overall tire diameter as close to the original as possible. Significant changes can affect your speedometer accuracy, ABS, stability control, and ride quality. Always consult a professional tire specialist before making changes to ensure safety and compatibility.

How do I know when my tires need to be replaced?

Look for a few key indicators: tread depth below 2/32 inch (use the penny test), visible cracks or bulges on the sidewall, excessive vibrations, or if the tires are more than six to ten years old, regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades over time. If you’re unsure, have them inspected by a qualified technician.

What does “XL” mean on a tire?

“XL” stands for “Extra Load.” An XL tire has a reinforced construction, allowing it to safely carry a higher load capacity at a given inflation pressure compared to a standard load (SL) tire of the same size. If your Accord’s original equipment tires are XL, you must replace them with XL tires to maintain the vehicle’s load-carrying capacity and safety.

There you have it, folks! The world of 2017 Honda Accord tire size might seem complex, but with the right knowledge, it’s completely manageable. From decoding sidewall markings to understanding maintenance best practices and even considering eco-friendly options, you’re now equipped to make smart decisions for your Accord.

Remember, your tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road. Investing in the right ones and taking care of them isn’t just about performance or saving a few bucks; it’s about your safety and the safety of everyone on the road. So, get out there, check those pressures, inspect those treads, and enjoy the smooth, confident ride your Accord was designed to deliver.

Stay safe and stay comfortable!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.