Honda Accord Tire Sizes

Choosing the right tires is one of the most important decisions you can make for your Honda Accord. Getting the correct Honda Accord Tire Sizes is crucial for your safety, performance, and fuel economy.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the standard sizes for different years, explain what all those numbers on the sidewall mean, and help you pick the best tires for your driving style and climate.

The tire size your Accord needs depends primarily on its model year, trim level, and optional wheel packages. Honda has used several standard sizes over the decades. Using the wrong size can damage your car, void warranties, and lead to unsafe handling.

Common OEM Tire Sizes by Generation

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) sizes are what your Accord rolled out of the factory with. Here’s a breakdown of common sizes for recent generations:

11th Generation (2023-Present): Most trims use 235/40R19 or 235/45R18. Some base models may have 17-inch wheels.
10th Generation (2018-2022): Very common sizes include 235/40R19, 235/45R18, and 215/55R17.
9th Generation (2013-2017): Often found with 225/50R17 or 235/45R18 on higher trims.
8th Generation (2008-2012): Typical sizes were 215/60R16 and 225/50R17.

Remember, this is a general guide. The absolute best way to find your size is to check your current tire’s sidewall or the driver’s side door jamb sticker.

How to Read Your Tire Sidewall

It looks like a secret code, but it’s simple once you know the pattern. Let’s use a common Accord size, 235/45R18, as an example.

235: This is the section width. It’s the width of the tire in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.
45: This is the aspect ratio. It’s the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of the width. So, 45% of 235mm.
R: Stands for Radial construction, which is standard for almost all modern tires.
18: The wheel diameter in inches that this tire is designed to fit.

Other important markings include the load index (weight capacity), speed rating (maximum safe speed), and the DOT date code showing the tire’s manufacture week and year.

Why the Correct Size Matters

Sticking to the recommended tire size isn’t just a suggestion. It affects several key systems in your vehicle.

Speedometer Accuracy: Your speedometer and odometer are calibrated for a specific tire diameter. A larger or smaller tire will throw these readings off.
ABS & Stability Control: These safety systems rely on precise wheel speed data. The wrong tire size can confuse them, making them less effective.
Fuel Economy: Heavier or wider tires create more rolling resistance, which can lower your MPG.
Clearance: A tire that’s too big can rub against the wheel well or suspension components, especially when turning or over bumps.

Can You Put Different Size Tires on Your Accord?

Sometimes. Many owners choose to “plus-size” their wheels and tires for looks or performance. This means installing larger wheels with lower-profile tires to keep the overall diameter nearly identical.

For example, you might upgrade from a 17-inch to an 18-inch setup. The key is to use a tire size calculator online to ensure the new tire’s overall diameter is within 3% of the original. This preserves your speedometer accuracy and prevents clearance issues.

However, going significantly wider or taller than OEM specs is generally not recommended without professional modification advice.

Choosing the Right Tire Type for Your Needs

Once you know your size, you need to pick the right tire category. The best choice depends on where you live and how you drive.

All-Season Tires

This is the most common choice for Accord drivers. Modern all-season tires offer a great balance of dry/wet traction, decent tread life, and acceptable light snow performance. They are a perfect fit for most climates without severe winters.

Summer Performance Tires

If you prioritize handling and grip in warm, dry conditions, summer tires are superior. They have a stickier rubber compound. However, they can become hard and dangerous in near-freezing temperatures and offer no real snow traction.

Winter / Snow Tires

For consistent winter weather, dedicated snow tires are a game-changer. They use a soft, pliable rubber that stays grippy in cold temps and have deep tread patterns to bite into snow and ice. You should install them on all four wheels for balanced handling.

Touring Tires

A sub-category of all-season tires, touring tires emphasize a quiet, comfortable ride, long treadwear, and good wet weather performance. They are an excellent, smooth-riding choice for daily commuting and long highway trips.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying New Tires

Check Your Current Size: Look at your door jamb sticker or tire sidewall. Note the full code (e.g., P215/60R16 94H).
Assess Your Climate & Driving: Decide if you need All-Season, Summer, or Winter tires based on your local weather.
Set a Budget: Tires range from budget-friendly to premium. Remember, they are a critical safety component.
Research Brands & Models: Read expert reviews and owner feedback for tires in your chosen category. Look for strengths in areas you care about, like noise, comfort, or wet grip.
Compare Prices: Check prices at local tire shops, dealerships, and online retailers. Don’t forget to factor in costs for mounting, balancing, valve stems, and disposal fees.
Consider the Purchase Date: Always check the DOT date code. Avoid buying tires that are more than a couple years old, as the rubber degrades over time even if unused.

Maintenance Tips for Long Tire Life

Proper care will help your new tires last longer and perform safely.

Check Air Pressure Monthly: Use a reliable gauge when tires are cold. Inflate to the PSI listed on your door jamb sticker, not the max PSI on the tire sidewall. Under-inflated tires wear out faster and hurt fuel economy.
Rotate Every 5,000-7,500 Miles: This promotes even wear across all four tires. Front-wheel-drive cars like the Accord wear front tires faster.
Get Regular Alignments: If your car pulls to one side or you see uneven tire wear, you likely need an alignment. Hitting potholes hard can knock it out of spec.
Check Tread Depth: Use the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low (below 2/32″).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the “H” or “V” mean in my tire size?

That’s the speed rating. It indicates the maximum speed the tire can safely sustain. Common ratings for Accords are H (up to 130 mph) and V (up to 149 mph). Always match or exceed the OEM speed rating.

Can I use 225 tires instead of 215?

A slight width change like this is often possible if the overall diameter remains similar. A 225/60R16 might work in place of a 215/60R16, but you must verify clearances and recalculate the diameter. Consulting a tire professional is wise before making such a switch.

How long should Honda Accord tires last?

Tire lifespan varies widely based on type, driving habits, and maintenance. Most all-season tires on an Accord can last between 40,000 to 60,000 miles with proper care. Performance tires may wear faster, while some touring tires can last longer.

Do I need to replace all four tires at once?

On a front-wheel-drive car like the Accord, it’s highly recommended. Having significantly different tread depths between the front and rear axles can upset the car’s balance and stability, especially in wet weather. If you must replace only two, put the new tires on the rear axle for better control.

What is the proper tire pressure for my Accord?

Never go by the tire’s sidewall pressure. The correct pressure is specific to your vehicle’s weight and handling. Find the white and yellow sticker on the driver’s door jamb. It lists the recommended PSI for front and rear tires, often around 32-35 PSI when cold.

Are run-flat tires a good option for the Accord?

Run-flats allow you to drive a limited distance after a puncture. However, they often have a firmer ride, are more expensive to replace, and require a special TPMS system. For most Accord drivers, a standard tire paired with a good roadside assistance plan is a more comfortable and cost-effective choice.

Selecting the right Honda Accord tire sizes and models is a key part of vehicle ownership. By understanding the numbers on your sidewall, choosing a tire that matches your climate, and following simple maintenance steps, you’ll ensure your Accord drives safely, efficiently, and comfortably for thousands of miles. Always prioritize safety and compatibility over aesthetics alone, and when in doubt, consult with a trusted tire specialist to make the best choice for your specific car.