Plus Sizing replaces your stock wheel with a larger diameter wheel while using a lower-profile tire so the overall diameter stays the same. Done right, it maintains speedometer accuracy and keeps ABS, traction control, and suspension systems happy—while improving response and style. Done wrong, it can reduce ride comfort, stress components, and create clearance issues. Here's how to do it correctly.
The concept is simple: increase wheel diameter, decrease tire sidewall height, maintain overall diameter. A typical example would be going from a 225/60R17 (17-inch wheel with a 60-series tire) to a 225/45R19 (19-inch wheel with a 45-series tire). Both combinations produce nearly identical overall diameters, keeping your vehicle's computer systems functioning properly.
Reading tire sizes is critical for successful plus sizing. The three-number format tells you everything you need to know:
In a size like 225/45R19:
The aspect ratio is your key variable in plus sizing. A 45-series tire has a sidewall height that's 45% of its section width. For a 225mm tire, that's 101.25mm of sidewall. When you go plus sizing, you're decreasing this number while increasing wheel diameter to maintain the same total height.
Original Size |
Plus 1 Size |
Plus 2 Size |
Overall Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|
225/60R17 |
225/50R18 |
225/45R19 |
~27.6 inches |
235/65R18 |
235/55R19 |
235/50R20 |
~30.0 inches |
265/70R17 |
265/60R18 |
265/55R19 |
~31.6 inches |
Lower-profile tires and wider wheels can change inner and outer clearances. Before you buy, confirm:
Check these four areas before committing to a plus size setup:
Lower-profile tires often require higher inflation pressures to carry the same load. The shorter, stiffer sidewalls need proper pressure to maintain load capacity and prevent damage. Always refer to the tire manufacturer's load/pressure tables when plus sizing.
When executed properly, plus sizing delivers measurable improvements:
Shorter sidewalls mean less flex during cornering. This translates to sharper turn-in, more predictable handling, and better steering feedback. Your vehicle feels more connected to the road, especially during aggressive driving or emergency maneuvers.
Stiffer sidewalls reduce tire deflection under hard braking, improving brake pedal feel and potentially shortening stopping distances. Larger wheel diameters also accommodate bigger brake rotors and calipers if you're upgrading your braking system.
Larger wheels fill wheel wells more completely, creating a more aggressive, performance-oriented stance. Modern vehicle designs increasingly feature lower-profile tires from the factory for this exact reason.
With proper tire selection, you can increase tread width while plus sizing, putting more rubber on the road. Performance tires in lower-profile sizes often feature advanced compounds and tread designs optimized for grip.
Plus sizing isn't without compromises. Understanding these trade-offs helps you make an informed decision:
Shorter sidewalls mean less cushioning between road and wheel. Impact harshness increases, especially over rough pavement, potholes, and expansion joints. What was comfortable at 60-series may feel jarring at 35-series.
Less sidewall protection means greater risk of wheel damage from impacts. Bent wheels and sidewall damage become more common. Low-profile tires are also more expensive to replace.
Performance-oriented low-profile tires often generate more road noise than their higher-profile counterparts. Stiffer sidewalls transmit more vibration into the cabin.
Larger wheels cost more. Low-profile performance tires cost more. Installation and balancing on larger wheels may cost more. Budget accordingly.
In off-road or winter conditions, sidewall flex helps tires conform to terrain and maintain traction. Plus sizing reduces this advantage, potentially compromising capability in challenging conditions.
Different vehicles benefit from plus sizing in different ways:
Vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda6 often come with 17-18 inch wheels from the factory. Plus 1 or Plus 2 sizing (19-20 inches) transforms the appearance while enhancing handling dynamics for spirited driving.
BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi models frequently offer factory wheel options ranging from 18 to 21 inches. Owners often upgrade to the largest available size or go beyond for maximum visual impact and performance.
Performance vehicles like the Mustang, Camaro, Corvette, and 370Z already feature large wheels from the factory (18-19 inches), but enthusiasts still push to 20-22 inches with ultra-low-profile tires for track days and shows.
The RAV4, CR-V, Explorer, and similar vehicles typically run 17-18 inch wheels. Plus sizing to 20 inches creates a more commanding presence while maintaining ride quality with 45-50 series tires.
Full-size trucks like the F-150, Silverado, and Ram often start with 17-18 inch wheels. Upgrading to 20-22 inches remains popular, though buyers must carefully manage load ratings and overall diameter to preserve capability.
Budget realistically for the complete upgrade:
Component |
Budget Range |
Mid-Range |
Premium Range |
|---|---|---|---|
Wheels (set of 4) |
$600-$1,200 |
$1,200-$2,500 |
$2,500-$5,000+ |
Tires (set of 4) |
$500-$800 |
$800-$1,400 |
$1,400-$2,500+ |
TPMS Sensors |
$120-$200 |
$200-$300 |
$300-$400 |
Installation & Balancing |
$100-$150 |
$150-$250 |
$250-$400 |
Alignment |
$80-$120 |
$120-$180 |
$180-$300 |
Total investment typically ranges from $1,400 to $8,600 depending on wheel size, brand, and tire selection. Performance packages at the higher end often include forged wheels, high-performance summer tires, and professional road-force balancing.
Drive the first 50-100 miles conservatively. Check lug nut torque after the first 25 miles and again at 100 miles. Monitor tire pressure weekly for the first month as tires seat on rims.
Many enthusiasts run plus-sized summer setups and return to stock (or winter-appropriate) wheel/tire combinations during cold months. This protects expensive wheels from road salt and potholes while maintaining cold-weather traction.
Pros: Sharper steering, improved cornering stability, modern look. Cons: Firmer ride, potential road noise increase, tighter clearances. Our specialists balance these trade-offs for your vehicle and goals. For a turnkey solution, choose Wheel & Tire Packages—mounted, balanced, and road-force ready. Need exact specs? Submit a Custom Built Wheel Order.
Have questions about plus sizing or the best size for your car, truck, or SUV? Contact Us. Ready to explore? Shop Wheels or Shop Tires. For deeper planning, revisit the Plus/Minus Sizing Calculator.
Upgrading to a larger wheel with a lower-profile tire so overall diameter stays near stock, preserving vehicle systems.
Aim within about 3% (maximum 5%) of the OE overall diameter to keep speedometer, ABS, and stability systems on-spec.
Usually yes. Shorter sidewalls reduce flex and sharpen steering, but ride quality can become firmer and noisier.
Never go lower than OE. Match or exceed the original load index and speed rating for safety and compliance.
Use our Plus/Minus, Tire Size Comparison, and Wheel & Tire Size calculators, and review offset and backspacing guides.
Reviewed by the Performance Plus Tire Fitment Team.
