33 inches by rim size
| Rim | Size | Diameter | Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 in | 305/75R15 | 33.01 in (838.5 mm) | 12.01 in (305 mm) |
| 16 in | 285/75R16 | 32.83 in (833.9 mm) | 11.22 in (285 mm) |
| 16 in | 305/70R16 | 32.81 in (833.4 mm) | 12.01 in (305 mm) |
| 17 in | 285/70R17 | 32.71 in (830.8 mm) | 11.22 in (285 mm) |
| 17 in | 295/70R17 | 33.26 in (844.8 mm) | 11.61 in (295 mm) |
| 18 in | 275/70R18 | 33.16 in (842.2 mm) | 10.83 in (275 mm) |
| 20 in | 275/60R20 | 32.99 in (838.0 mm) | 10.83 in (275 mm) |
| 20 in | 295/55R20 | 32.78 in (832.5 mm) | 11.61 in (295 mm) |
Metric 33s are usually narrower
A 33x12.50 is about 317.5 mm wide on paper, while a 285 is 285 mm: about 1.3 in narrower. Narrower tires weigh less, fit stock wheels more easily and rub less at full lock, but look less aggressive. For close to the full 12.50 in width in metric, look at 305 and 315 widths.
What it takes to fit 33s
Most trucks and SUVs that come with 30 to 31 in tires need some work for 33s. The details depend on model, trim and wheel, so treat this as a checklist, not a promise.
- A lift or leveling kit for clearance, and sometimes trimming of the fender liner or bumper.
- Wheels with the right offset and backspacing, so the wider tire clears the suspension at full lock.
- Speedometer recalibration: from 245/75R17 (31.47 in) to a 33, the tire is 4.87% taller, so an indicated 60 mph is really about 62.9 mph.
- Possibly new axle gears on smaller engines, to restore acceleration and towing.
- A load range that suits the vehicle: LT tires in load range C or E ride differently and need their own pressure.
Tacoma and Wrangler
33s are one of the most popular upgrades on the Toyota Tacoma and the Jeep Wrangler. Stock sizes differ by year and trim, so start from the size on your door placard. For example, 265/70R16 to 285/75R16 is +7.27%, and 245/75R17 to 285/70R17 is +3.94%. On a Wrangler that already rolls on 285/70R17, a true 33x12.50R17 is only +0.89%.
Keep the load index or load range at least as high as the original, and confirm the fit with a shop that knows your model before buying a set.
Questions
What size is a 33 inch tire in metric?
About 838 mm tall. 285/75R16, 285/70R17, 275/70R18 and 275/60R20 are the closest common metric sizes.
Is 285/70R17 a 33?
Close. On paper it is 830.8 mm, or 32.71 in, and it is commonly sold as a 33. Some brands run slightly taller or shorter.
Is 33x12.50R17 the same as 285/70R17?
Nearly the same height (33.0 in vs 32.71 in), but the 12.50 is about 32 mm (1.3 in) wider.
Do I need a lift for 33 inch tires?
On most mid-size trucks and Jeeps that come with 31 in tires, some lift or leveling is usually needed, plus suitable wheel offset. Check with a shop that knows your model.