If you’re in the market for new tires, or planning an upgrade for your vehicle, you might find yourself deliberating between different sizes. Two popular options that often come into consideration are 33-inch and 35-inch tires.
At first glance, the difference might seem minor, but it can have a significant impact on your vehicle’s performance, look, and overall driving experience. So, if you are pondering between 33s and 35s, this blog post is for you. Let’s dive into the distinctions and help you make an informed decision.
- Differences Between 33 And 35 Inch Tires
- Do Off-Road Tires Make A Difference?
- How Much Does A Tire Weigh?
- Which Tire Is Best For Off-Road?
- Recommended Off-Roading Gear
- Is There A Big Difference Between 33 And 35 Tires?
- What Is The Advantage Of 35-Inch Tires?
- Why Are 35-Inch Tires So Popular?
- Are 35-Inch Tires Too Big?
- Will 35-Inch Tires Affect The Speedometer?
- Does Putting Bigger Tires Affect Gas Mileage?
- Do Bigger Tires Make Your Mileage Go Up Faster?
- Do Bigger Tires Mean More Speed?
- How Do Larger Tires Impact The Braking Performance Of A Vehicle?
- Can Larger Tires Affect A Vehicle’s Transmission?
- How Do Larger Tires Affect A Vehicle’s Towing Capacity?
- Conclusion
Differences Between 33 And 35 Inch Tires
1. Vehicle Clearance and Fitment
The first, most noticeable difference between 33-inch and 35-inch tires is their size. Bigger, 35-inch tires would require more space under the wheel arches. This might necessitate a lift kit or modifications to your vehicle, especially if it’s a standard factory model. Conversely, 33-inch tires are typically easier to fit on stock vehicles without substantial adjustments.
2. Vehicle Performance
The larger the tire, the more it affects the vehicle’s performance. A 35-inch tire will cover more ground per rotation than a 33-inch tire. This results in better off-road performance and increased ground clearance, making 35-inch tires a favorite among off-roading enthusiasts. However, the increased tire size can reduce acceleration and fuel economy. Conversely, 33-inch tires, being smaller and lighter, may offer better on-road performance and fuel efficiency.
3. Ride Comfort
When it comes to ride comfort, 33-inch tires generally provide a smoother, quieter ride because they’re less aggressive. On the other hand, 35-inch tires, due to their larger contact surface, might be noisier and slightly harsher on regular roads. But their broader tread design and increased size contribute to a more comfortable ride on rugged terrains.
4. Aesthetics
Larger tires can dramatically change the look of your vehicle. If you’re seeking a rugged, aggressive look, then 35-inch tires can be the way to go. They provide that ‘lifted’ stance which many 4×4 and Jeep enthusiasts crave. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced look without compromising much on the stock aesthetics, 33-inch tires might be a better choice.
5. Cost and Maintenance
Generally speaking, 35-inch tires will be more expensive than 33-inch ones, not just in terms of initial cost but also with respect to installation and potential vehicle modifications. Additionally, they may wear down faster due to their larger contact area which could lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run.
Do Off-Road Tires Make A Difference?
Absolutely, off-road tires can make a significant difference when you’re traversing rough terrains. Off-road tires, also known as all-terrain or mud-terrain tires, have specialized designs and features that make them suitable for tough conditions.
Their more aggressive tread patterns provide better traction on loose and uneven surfaces like gravel, dirt, mud, or snow. They are often made from tougher rubber compounds that resist punctures and cuts, particularly useful when rolling over sharp rocks or debris.
Furthermore, the wider and larger design of off-road tires improves ground clearance, allowing the vehicle to navigate obstacles more comfortably. Sidewall lugs (tread that extends down the side of the tire) also improve traction and help protect the tire from damage.
However, keep in mind that these benefits off-road can lead to trade-offs on the pavement. For example, off-road tires can be noisier on highways, wear quicker on asphalt due to their softer rubber composition, and may negatively impact fuel efficiency.
How Much Does A Tire Weigh?
The weight of a tire can vary considerably depending on its size, type, and the materials used in its construction. A standard passenger car tire can weigh between 20 to 25 pounds, while a light truck tire might weigh between 35 and 50 pounds.
Large off-road tires and those designed for commercial trucks can weigh considerably more. For instance, a 35-inch off-road tire might weigh anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds, and commercial truck tires can weigh 100 pounds or more.
Keep in mind that these weights are for the tire alone, and a mounted tire/wheel assembly will weigh more due to the additional weight of the rim.
Which Tire Is Best For Off-Road?
Choosing the best off-road tire depends largely on the type of off-roading you’ll be doing and the specific conditions you’ll encounter. Here are three popular types of off-road tires:
1. All-Terrain Tires
These are a good option for drivers who split their time between off-road and paved surfaces. They provide a balance between off-road performance and on-road comfort. They have a more aggressive tread pattern than a typical highway tire but are not as aggressive as mud-terrain tires. Examples include the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 and the Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure.
2. Mud-Terrain Tires
If you’re primarily off-roading in muddy or loose dirt conditions, these are the best choices. They have large, chunky tread patterns that help the tire claw through and expel mud, providing excellent traction in these conditions. However, they tend to be noisier on the highway and may wear quicker than all-terrain or highway tires. The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 or the Goodyear Wrangler MT/R are popular options in this category.
3. Rock-Crawling Tires
For navigating rocky terrains, rock-crawling tires are designed with maximum traction, durability, and puncture resistance in mind. They often feature reinforced sidewalls and tough tread compounds to withstand sharp, jagged rocks. Examples include the Maxxis Trepador and the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to off-road tires, and it’s crucial to consider the type of terrain, climate, and your vehicle’s capabilities before making a choice.
Recommended Off-Roading Gear
Venturing off-road requires preparation and the right gear. Here are some must-haves for any off-roading adventure:
Recovery Straps and Winch
If your vehicle gets stuck, you’ll need a recovery strap to pull it out. A winch can also be incredibly helpful, particularly for severe situations.
Hi-Lift Jack
A standard car jack won’t be much help in a muddy or uneven off-road environment. A Hi-Lift jack is versatile and can be used in a variety of recovery situations.
Air Compressor
Useful for inflating tires after a trail where lower tire pressures were necessary.
Navigation System
A GPS or off-road navigation system will ensure you always know where you’re going, even when you’re far off the beaten path.
First-Aid Kit
Always essential to have in case of emergencies.
Shovel
Handy for digging your vehicle out if it gets stuck in mud or sand.
Traction Mats
These can be placed under the tires for additional traction in sand, mud, or snow.
Spare Tire and Repair Kit
A must-have for fixing flat tires in remote locations.
Communication Devices
If you’re in a spot with no cell service, two-way radios can be a lifesaver.
Extra Fuel and Water
Always bring more than you think you’ll need, especially if you’re venturing into remote areas.
Is There A Big Difference Between 33 And 35 Tires?
While the difference between 33 and 35-inch tires may not seem significant, it can have a notable impact on a vehicle’s performance, handling, and appearance.
Firstly, in terms of dimensions, 35-inch tires are obviously larger. This means they need more clearance in the wheel wells, which can often necessitate vehicle modifications such as a lift kit, especially for stock vehicles.
Secondly, 35-inch tires will alter the way your vehicle handles. They will give your vehicle more ground clearance and improve traction on off-road terrain due to a larger contact patch with the ground. However, larger tires can also reduce fuel efficiency and potentially decrease acceleration and braking performance because they’re heavier and have more rolling resistance.
Lastly, the change in tire size can affect your speedometer reading since it’s calibrated based on the tire’s revolutions per minute. Larger tires cover more ground per revolution, which can make your speedometer read slower than your actual speed.
What Is The Advantage Of 35-Inch Tires?
35-inch tires have several advantages, particularly for off-roading:
1. Improved Ground Clearance
Larger tires raise the vehicle higher off the ground, allowing it to clear obstacles more easily.
2. Better Traction Off-Road
The larger contact patch (the area of the tire that touches the road) provides improved grip and traction, especially in off-road conditions.
3. Enhanced Vehicle Appearance
Many off-roaders appreciate the rugged, lifted look that comes with mounting larger tires on their vehicle.
Why Are 35-Inch Tires So Popular?
35-inch tires are popular for several reasons. For off-road enthusiasts, the improved ground clearance and better off-road traction make these tires an appealing choice. The additional height helps in navigating rocky terrain, steep inclines, and deep mud or sand.
Additionally, many people like the aggressive, rugged look that larger tires give their vehicles. They can make a significant difference in the overall stance and aesthetic of a vehicle, especially 4x4s and trucks.
Lastly, while they’re larger than stock tires, 35-inch tires are not so large that they usually require significant modifications to the vehicle. This size strikes a balance between improved off-road performance and the practicality of installation, which adds to their popularity.
Are 35-Inch Tires Too Big?
The answer to this question depends largely on the specific vehicle in question and its intended use.
For a standard passenger car or a small SUV, 35-inch tires would typically be too large and could cause significant problems. They could interfere with wheel wells, and suspension components, and could negatively impact the vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, and safety.
For larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, or Jeeps that are specifically designed for off-roading, 35-inch tires are often a viable option. However, even on these vehicles, switching to such large tires may require modifications like a lift kit or suspension adjustments to ensure proper clearance and fit.
Additionally, it’s important to note that larger tires can change the vehicle’s performance. They add more weight, which could potentially reduce acceleration and braking efficiency.
Will 35-Inch Tires Affect The Speedometer?
Yes, installing larger tires like 35-inch ones will affect your speedometer reading. The speedometer in a vehicle works based on the rotation speed of the tires – it calculates speed by counting the number of rotations in a given time frame. If you increase the size of your tires, they’ll cover more ground with each rotation, which means your speedometer will display a slower speed than you’re actually going.
For example, if your speedometer reads 60 mph, your actual speed could be higher when using larger tires. This discrepancy could lead to unintentional speeding and inaccurate mileage readings.
However, you can recalibrate your speedometer after installing larger tires. Some modern vehicles allow you to do this through the onboard computer system. For others, you might need a speedometer calibration tool or professional assistance. Always check your owner’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic if you’re unsure.
Does Putting Bigger Tires Affect Gas Mileage?
Yes, putting bigger tires on your vehicle can indeed affect gas mileage. Larger tires weigh more and have a larger contact surface with the road. This increased weight and surface area lead to more rolling resistance, which means the engine has to work harder to move the vehicle, leading to decreased fuel efficiency.
In addition, larger tires can alter the vehicle’s aerodynamics by increasing its ride height, which may also negatively impact fuel efficiency. However, the effect on fuel economy varies based on the specific vehicle, tire size, and driving conditions.
Do Bigger Tires Make Your Mileage Go Up Faster?
Actually, the opposite is true. Bigger tires can make your vehicle’s odometer register fewer miles than you’ve actually traveled. This happens because your vehicle’s speedometer and odometer are calibrated based on the diameter of the factory-installed tires.
When you increase the size of your tires, each revolution covers more ground. So, if your vehicle’s systems aren’t recalibrated for the larger tires, they will “think” you’re covering less ground than you actually are, because they’re counting tire revolutions, not actual distance traveled.
Do Bigger Tires Mean More Speed?
Bigger tires won’t necessarily make your vehicle go faster in terms of top speed. In fact, they could potentially make it slower. The speed of a vehicle is determined by the power output of the engine, the vehicle’s weight, and its aerodynamics, among other factors.
When you add larger tires, you’re adding weight, which the engine must move. If the vehicle doesn’t have enough power to accommodate the increased weight, it might actually slow down, especially in terms of acceleration.
However, as mentioned above, if you put bigger tires on your vehicle and don’t recalibrate the speedometer, it will show a slower speed than you’re actually going because each revolution of the larger tire covers more ground. This might create the illusion that you’re going slower when, in fact, your actual speed has increased.
How Do Larger Tires Impact The Braking Performance Of A Vehicle?
Installing larger tires can impact the braking performance of a vehicle, often negatively. The increase in the tire size means that the brake system must exert more force to stop the added rotational mass of the larger tires. As a result, your vehicle might take longer to stop when you hit the brakes, particularly at high speeds. This increase in braking distance can be minimal or significant, depending on how much larger the new tires are compared to the original ones.
Upgrading your brakes might be necessary if you’re considering significantly larger tires. An upgrade can ensure that your vehicle maintains optimal braking performance, as the standard brakes may not be designed to handle the additional load and thermal stress that larger tires can introduce.
Can Larger Tires Affect A Vehicle’s Transmission?
Yes, larger tires can affect a vehicle’s transmission. The reason lies in how the transmission and the tires interact. The transmission is designed to operate within a specific range of tire sizes. When you install larger tires, you effectively change the final drive ratio, which is the number of times the driveshaft must turn to rotate the tires once. This can put more strain on the transmission because it needs to work harder to turn the larger, heavier tires.
The added strain can lead to increased transmission wear and may cause the transmission to run hotter, which could potentially shorten its lifespan. For vehicles with an automatic transmission, the shift points may also be off, leading to less efficient operation and reduced performance. If you’re considering significantly larger tires, it might be worth investigating a transmission tune or re-gear to ensure your vehicle operates efficiently.
How Do Larger Tires Affect A Vehicle’s Towing Capacity?
Installing larger tires on a vehicle doesn’t increase its towing capacity. Towing capacity is determined by the vehicle manufacturer based on factors like the vehicle’s structure, suspension, brakes, powertrain, and cooling system capabilities. While larger tires might provide better traction, they don’t increase the vehicle’s ability to safely tow a heavier load.
In fact, larger tires could potentially decrease the effective towing capacity because they add weight to the vehicle and change its gearing, causing the engine to work harder to tow the same load. They might also raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, which could affect its stability when towing. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for the rated towing capacity and consult with a professional if you’re considering any modifications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between 33-inch and 35-inch tires involves various considerations, including vehicle type, driving conditions, and personal preference. While 35-inch tires offer improved ground clearance and may enhance off-road performance, they may also require vehicle modifications and could impact fuel efficiency and on-road comfort.
As with any significant vehicle change, it’s essential to consult with professionals to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and performs optimally. Remember, every vehicle and driver is unique, so take the time to understand the potential impacts and benefits of larger tires to make the best decision for your situation.