33x12.50R15 tires: size explained

A tire size describes the tire's shape and the wheel it fits. It says nothing about load capacity or speed capability, which are printed separately on the sidewall.

33Overall diameter

Flotation sizes are written in inches. The first number is the tire's overall height: 33.0 in (838 mm).

12.50Section width

The second number is the tire's width: 12.5 in (318 mm). There is no aspect ratio in a flotation size.

RRadial construction

R means radial construction, where the internal cords run across the tire from one edge to the other.

15Wheel (rim) diameter

The tire is made for a wheel 15 inches across. Its overall diameter is larger: about 33.0 in (838 mm).

SidewallSidewall height (calculated)

Half the difference between overall diameter and wheel diameter: (33 - 15) / 2 = 9.0 in (229 mm).

These are nominal design dimensions. Real tires vary by brand, tread depth, wheel width, load and pressure.

We list vehicles for a size only when we have verified fitment data for them. We don't have verified vehicles for 33x12.50R15 yet, so check your own vehicle instead.

Confirm the size on your tire sidewall or door placard first. These links open each store's own search for 33x12.50R15; prices and stock are on their sites.

Where winter roads call for extra traction, chains and tire socks are two options that fit over your tires. They are made for specific tire sizes, so these links open Amazon searches for 33x12.50R15. Whether they suit your vehicle depends on its clearance and the local rules.

Paid links to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read our affiliate disclosure.

Before you buy

• Chains and socks are sold by tire size, so match the size on your sidewall exactly.
• Check your owner's manual first: many newer cars and SUVs limit or prohibit chains, or require low-profile (often called SAE Class S) chains because of tight wheel-well clearance.
• Tire socks are a lighter-duty option; check your state's rules, because some areas only accept chains when chain controls are in effect.
• Put them on the drive wheels (or as your manual says) and follow the maker's speed limit.

These common sizes have an overall diameter within about 3% of 33x12.50R15. A common rule of thumb is to keep a replacement size within about 3% of the original overall diameter. Confirm any size change with your vehicle's owner's manual or a tire professional.

Side-by-side dimensions and speedometer difference for sizes close to 33x12.50R15 in overall diameter.

• 275/60R20 vs 33x12.50R15-0.02% shorter than 33x12.50R15
• 285/40R24 vs 33x12.50R15-0.07% shorter than 33x12.50R15
• 275/70R18 vs 33x12.50R15+0.48% taller than 33x12.50R15
• 33x12.50R15 vs LT275/70R18+0.48% taller than 33x12.50R15
• 275/50R22 vs 33x12.50R15-0.52% shorter than 33x12.50R15
• 33x12.50R15 vs LT275/50R22-0.52% shorter than 33x12.50R15
• 265/75R18 vs 33x12.50R15+1.97% taller than 33x12.50R15

See how another size differs in height, width, sidewall and speedometer reading in the tire size calculator.