Speed Factor Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines how changing tyre sizes affects your vehicle's speedometer reading and actual speed.
Purpose: It helps vehicle owners understand the impact of tyre size changes on speed measurement and vehicle performance.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: When you install larger tyres, your speedometer will under-read (show slower than actual speed). Smaller tyres cause the speedometer to over-read.
Details: Correct tyre size calculations ensure accurate speed readings, proper gearing, and prevent potential legal issues from incorrect speedometer readings.
Tips: Measure or look up the diameters of both your old and new tyres in millimeters. Enter both values to calculate the speed factor.
Q1: How do I find my tyre diameter?
A: Check manufacturer specifications or use a tyre size calculator that converts tyre codes (e.g., 205/55R16) to diameter.
Q2: What does the speed factor mean?
A: Multiply your speedometer reading by this factor to get your actual speed. A factor of 1.05 means you're going 5% faster than shown.
Q3: Does this affect odometer readings?
A: Yes, the same factor applies to distance measurements. Larger tyres will cause the odometer to under-report distance traveled.
Q4: Is wheel width important for this calculation?
A: Only indirectly, as it may affect the tyre's aspect ratio and thus diameter. The key measurement is the overall diameter.
Q5: How much difference is significant?
A: A 3% or greater difference may require speedometer recalibration to maintain accuracy.