Tyre size 205/55 R16
Find 205/55 R16 Tyres
Free guidance for 205/55 R16 tyres. One of the most common UK family car tyre sizes, fitted to many hatchbacks and saloons. Always confirm fitment on your tyre sidewall.
Tyre Size Checker
Enter a UK tyre size such as 205/55 R16 91V to decode the width, profile, rim, load index and speed rating.
Find your tyre size on the sidewall, the driver's door frame, fuel flap or vehicle handbook.
- This tyre size may be incomplete. A full tyre size often looks like 205/55 R16 91V. Check your tyre sidewall for the load index and speed rating.
What 205/55 R16 means
205 is the section width in millimetres. 55 is the profile (sidewall height as a percentage of the width). R is radial construction. 16 is the wheel rim diameter in inches.
A full tyre size also includes a load index and speed rating, e.g. 205/55 R16 91V. The load index maps to a maximum weight per tyre, and the speed rating maps to a maximum speed at full load.
Where 205/55 R16 is commonly fitted
One of the most common UK family car tyre sizes, fitted to many hatchbacks and saloons.
Even when a tyre size is common, the specific tyre that's right for your vehicle depends on the load index, speed rating, and sometimes whether the original equipment is run-flat or EV-rated. Always confirm with your tyre sidewall, vehicle handbook or a qualified UK tyre fitter before fitting.
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You can find this on your tyre sidewall.
This tyre size may be incomplete. A full tyre size often looks like 205/55 R16 91V. Check your tyre sidewall for the load index and speed rating.
Step 1 of 7 — Start
What to check before fitting
- Confirm the size on your tyre sidewall
- Match or exceed the original load index and speed rating
- Check the EU tyre label for wet grip, fuel and noise
- Pick the right type — summer, all-season or winter
- Fit as a full set or at least a matched pair on the same axle
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about UK tyre fitment, MOT rules and seasonal options.
What kind of car typically uses 205/55 R16?
16-inch rims with a 205mm tread are common on family hatchbacks, small saloons and crossovers in the UK.
Does fitting 205/55 R16 affect my insurance?
If 205/55 R16 is the original size for your car, fitting it doesn't affect insurance. If you're switching from the OEM size to 205/55 R16, you may need to declare it — particularly if it's a wider or larger-rim option.
What does 205/55 R16 mean?
205/55 R16 reads as: 205mm tread width, sidewall height 55% of width (≈ 113mm sidewall), and a 16-inch rim diameter. A complete size includes a load index and speed rating, e.g. 205/55 R16 91V.
Can I read 205/55 R16 backwards from a wheel listing?
If you only know the wheel — for example a 16-inch alloy with width X — the tyre size is usually engraved or labelled separately. Don't assume from rim diameter alone; many cars run different widths and profiles on the same rim size.
Can I fit a different size to 205/55 R16?
Only fit a size approved for your specific car. Changing width, profile, rim, load or speed rating affects handling, braking, fuel economy and MOT. Approved alternatives are usually listed in the vehicle handbook.
Tyre sizes related to 205/55 R16
Same rim, similar width or profile — common alternatives UK drivers compare with 205/55 R16.
Tyre Finder UK provides general tyre guidance only. We do not guarantee tyre fitment, local stock, prices or fitting availability. Always confirm your tyre size, load rating, speed rating and vehicle requirements using your current tyre sidewall, vehicle handbook, manufacturer guidance or a qualified tyre fitter before fitting.