Tesla Tire Size Guide: Every Model, Year & Trim — How to Find, Check & Compare
The definitive Tesla tire size reference — OEM sizes for Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X by every year and trim, four ways to check your tire size right now, the T-mark (T0) system explained, EV-specific tire differences, AWD matching rules, winter tire guidance, and how to use the Tesla tire size calculator.
Quick answer
The most common Tesla tire sizes are 235/45R18 and 235/40R19 on the Model 3, and 255/45R19 on the Model Y. All Tesla tires require XL (Extra Load) rating at 42 PSI cold. To find your exact size: check the Tesla app (Software screen), your touchscreen (Controls → Service → Tire Pressure), or the driver-side door jamb sticker.
Quick reference: common Tesla tire questions
The most common Tesla tire questions answered in one line. Click any card for the full explanation below.
⚡Most common Model 3 tire size
235/45R18 (Aero wheel — most efficient), 235/40R19 (Sport wheel — popular upgrade), 235/35R20 / 275/30R20 staggered (Performance trim). All three diameters are within ~0.4" of each other for AWD compatibility.
🚗Most common Model Y tire size
255/45R19 (Gemini 19" — standard on Long Range), 255/40R20 (Induction 20" — Long Range upgrade), 255/35R21 front / 275/35R21 rear staggered (Performance). All 42 PSI cold inflation.
📱How to find your Tesla tire size
Four methods: (1) Tesla app → tap car image → Software → wheel size shown. (2) Touchscreen → Controls → Service → tire pressure screen. (3) Door jamb sticker on driver-side door pillar. (4) Sidewall of your current tire — e.g. "235/45R18 98W".
⚠️Tesla AWD tire mismatch rule
Keep all four tire diameters within approximately 0.5% of each other. Tesla dual-motor AWD permanently drives both axles. Mixing worn fronts with new rears stresses the drive unit every mile — Tesla recommends replacing all four simultaneously.
🔵T-mark (T0) tires — required?
No. Tesla-approved tires with the T0/T1/T2 mark are recommended but not mandatory. Any tire matching OEM size, load index, and speed rating is mechanically safe. Tesla's warranty is not voided by non-T-mark tires.
🏎️Tesla Performance trim tire sizes
Model 3 Performance (2017–2023): 235/35R20 front + 275/30R20 rear staggered. Model 3 Highland Performance (2024+): 235/35R20 square or staggered. Model Y Performance: 255/35R21 front + 275/35R21 rear staggered.
How to find your Tesla tire size
Tesla owners search for this more than almost any other tire question — because unlike ICE vehicles, Teslas do not have an obvious printed spec on the dashboard. Here are all four reliable methods.
📱Tesla app
- Open the Tesla app on your phone
- Tap your vehicle image at the top
- Tap "Software" — the wheel size is listed here
- Cross-reference with this guide to identify the exact tire size for your wheel diameter and trim
🖥️Touchscreen
- Tap Controls on the main screen
- Tap Service
- Tap "Tire Pressure" — this screen shows your current tire pressure and often the tire size
- Alternatively: Controls → Software → your wheel spec appears in the vehicle spec summary
🚗Door jamb sticker
- Open the driver-side door
- Look at the door pillar (the vertical post between front and rear doors)
- Find the white compliance sticker
- Read the "Tire Size" line — it shows the full size string, e.g. "235/45R18 98W"
🔍Tire sidewall
- Look at the outer sidewall of any tire
- Find the series of numbers moulded into the rubber — e.g. "235/45R18 98W"
- 235 = tread width in mm, 45 = sidewall ratio, R = radial construction, 18 = wheel diameter in inches
- 98W = load index and speed rating (always match or exceed OEM on replacement)
🔢VIN lookup
- Find your VIN: Tesla app bottom of screen, or dashboard plate visible through windshield
- Visit a tire retailer's VIN lookup tool (Discount Tire, Tire Rack, etc.)
- Enter your VIN — the tool decodes model, year, trim, and OEM tire size
- Cross-check result against this guide to confirm the full size and pressure spec
Tesla Model 3 tire sizes — all years & trims
The Model 3 uses 18", 19", or 20" wheels depending on trim and configuration. The 2024+ Highland facelift standardised on square (non-staggered) fitments across all wheel sizes.
| Years | Trim | Wheel | Wheel name | Front | Rear | Config |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017–2022 | Standard Range / SR+ (RWD) | 18" | Aero | 235/45R18 | 235/45R18 | Square |
| 2017–2022 | Standard Range / SR+ (RWD) | 19" | Sport | 235/40R19 | 235/40R19 | Square |
| 2018–2022 | Long Range AWD | 18" | Aero | 235/45R18 | 235/45R18 | Square |
| 2018–2022 | Long Range AWD | 19" | Sport | 235/40R19 | 235/40R19 | Square |
| 2018–2022 | Performance (Dual Motor) | 20" | Uberturbine / Performance | 235/35R20 | 275/30R20 | Staggered |
| 2018–2022 | Performance — winter alt | 18" | Aero (winter config) | 235/45R18 | 235/45R18 | Square |
| 2024+ | Long Range RWD / AWD (Highland) | 18" | Aero | 235/45ZR18 | 235/45ZR18 | Square |
| 2024+ | Long Range RWD / AWD (Highland) | 19" | Nova | 235/40ZR19 | 235/40ZR19 | Square |
| 2024+ | Long Range RWD / AWD (Highland) | 20" | Helix | 235/35ZR20 | 235/35ZR20 | Square |
Cold inflation: 42 PSI on all Model 3 configurations. The 18" Aero wheel is the most range-efficient choice. The Performance 20" staggered setup cannot be rotated front-to-rear. The Highland facelift standardised square fitments, which enables four-wheel rotation.
Tesla Model Y tire sizes — all years & trims
The Model Y is heavier than the Model 3 and uses wider 255mm tires across all sizes — not the 235mm Model 3 sizes. This is the single most common source of confusion when Tesla owners search by wheel diameter only.
| Years | Trim | Wheel | Wheel name | Front | Rear | Config | Cold PSI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–present | Long Range AWD | 19" | Gemini | 255/45R19 | 255/45R19 | Square | 42 PSI cold |
| 2020–present | Long Range AWD (upgrade wheel) | 20" | Induction | 255/40R20 | 255/40R20 | Square | 42 PSI cold |
| 2020–present | Performance (Dual Motor) | 21" | Überturbine | 255/35R21 | 275/35R21 | Staggered | 42 PSI cold (both) |
| 2023–present | RWD (Juniper update markets) | 18" | Aero | 235/55R18 | 235/55R18 | Square | 42 PSI cold |
Tesla Model S tire sizes — all years & trims
The Model S went from square setups on early non-performance trims to a fully staggered design for all trims from the 2021 refresh onward. The Plaid 21" Arachnid fitment is the widest front tire Tesla has shipped on any production vehicle.
| Years | Trim | Wheel | Front | Rear | Config | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012–2016 | 40 / 60 / 70 / 85 (all non-P) | 19" | 245/45ZR19 | 245/45ZR19 | Square | Base 19" on all standard trims |
| 2012–2016 | P85D / P90D | 21" | 245/35ZR21 | 265/35ZR21 | Staggered | Performance stagger standard on P trim |
| 2017–2021 | 100D / Long Range / Standard | 19" | 245/45ZR19 | 245/45ZR19 | Square | Square setup on non-performance |
| 2017–2021 | P100D / Long Range Performance | 21" | 245/35ZR21 | 265/35ZR21 | Staggered | P trim: staggered from factory |
| 2021+ | Long Range / Plaid (Cardenio 19") | 19" | 255/45ZR19 | 285/40ZR19 | Staggered | 2021+ refresh: staggered even on non-Plaid |
| 2021+ | Long Range / Plaid (20") | 20" | 255/40ZR20 | 285/35ZR20 | Staggered | 20" upgrade available on Long Range |
| 2021+ | Plaid (Arachnid 21") | 21" | 265/35ZR21 | 295/30ZR21 | Staggered | Plaid 21" — widest front Tesla ever shipped |
Tesla Model X tire sizes — all years & trims
The Model X is the heaviest production Tesla and uses the largest OEM wheels — up to 22" on the Turbine option. All Model X configurations use staggered fitments from the 2021 refresh onward.
| Years | Trim | Wheel | Front | Rear | Config | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015–2021 | 75D / 100D / Standard Range | 20" | 255/45R20 | 255/45R20 | Square | Standard square on base trims |
| 2015–2021 | P100D / Performance | 20" | 255/45R20 | 275/45R20 | Staggered | Wider rear on performance trim |
| 2021+ | Long Range (Cyberstream 20") | 20" | 255/45R20 | 275/40R20 | Staggered | 2021 refresh — standard fitment |
| 2021+ | Long Range / Plaid (Turbine 22") | 22" | 265/35ZR22 | 295/30ZR22 | Staggered | Largest OEM Tesla rim option across all models |
Year-based quick reference
Cross-model tire size reference by year — covering the most common Tesla tire size years: 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2026.
| Year | Model 3 | Model Y | Model S | Model X |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 235/45R18 (Aero) / 235/40R19 (Sport) / 235/35R20+275/30R20 (Perf) | N/A — first Model Y: 2020 | 245/45ZR19 or 245/35ZR21 staggered | 255/45R20 or staggered |
| 2021 | 235/45R18 / 235/40R19 / 235/35R20+275/30R20 (Perf) | 255/45R19 (19" Gemini) / 255/40R20 (20" Induction) / 255/35R21+275/35R21 (Perf) | 255/45ZR19+285/40ZR19 or 265/35ZR21+295/30ZR21 (Plaid) | 255/45R20 or 265/35ZR22+295/30ZR22 |
| 2022 | 235/45R18 / 235/40R19 / 235/35R20+275/30R20 (Perf) | 255/45R19 / 255/40R20 / 255/35R21+275/35R21 (Perf) | 255/45ZR19+285/40ZR19 or 265/35ZR21+295/30ZR21 (Plaid) | 255/45R20+275/40R20 or 265/35ZR22+295/30ZR22 |
| 2023 | Gen 1 (pre-Highland): 235/45R18 / 235/40R19 / 235/35R20+275/30R20 (Perf). Highland (late 2023 in some markets): 235/45ZR18 / 235/40ZR19 / 235/35ZR20 | 255/45R19 / 255/40R20 / 255/35R21+275/35R21 (Perf) | 255/45ZR19+285/40ZR19 or 265/35ZR21+295/30ZR21 (Plaid) | 255/45R20+275/40R20 or 265/35ZR22+295/30ZR22 |
| 2024 | Highland: 235/45ZR18 / 235/40ZR19 / 235/35ZR20 (all square) | 255/45R19 / 255/40R20 / 255/35R21+275/35R21 (Perf) | 255/45ZR19+285/40ZR19 or 265/35ZR21+295/30ZR21 (Plaid) | 255/45R20+275/40R20 or 265/35ZR22+295/30ZR22 |
| 2026 | Highland (continuous production): 235/45ZR18 / 235/40ZR19 / 235/35ZR20 | Juniper: 235/55R18 (base/RWD) / 255/45R19 / 255/40R20 / 255/35R21+275/35R21 (Perf) | 255/45ZR19+285/40ZR19 or 265/35ZR21+295/30ZR21 (Plaid) | 255/45R20+275/40R20 or 265/35ZR22+295/30ZR22 |
* Sizes shown are common configurations. Higher trim levels and wheel upgrades vary. Always verify against your specific door jamb sticker.
Why EV tires are different from ICE tires
Fitting standard ICE-spec tires to a Tesla — even in the correct size — creates measurable penalties in range, noise, and wear. These are the six key differences that matter most.
Load capacity
High impactStandard load (SL) ratings sized for typical car weight
Tesla vehicles are heavier than equivalent ICE cars due to battery weight. All Tesla tire specs require XL (Extra Load / Reinforced) rated tires. Load index of at least 98–104 on most models.
Torque resistance
High impactGradual torque build — tires not stressed at launch
Tesla motors deliver maximum torque instantly from standstill. Tires must resist sudden rotational stress from 0 mph. Low-quality budget tires show accelerated tread wear and squirm.
Rolling resistance
Medium impactModest concern — fuel savings from low RR are small
Every 1% reduction in rolling resistance improves EV range measurably. Tesla's T-mark (T0) tires are developed with specific rolling resistance targets. Non-optimised tires can reduce range by 2–5% on real-world driving.
Acoustic foam lining
Medium impactNot usually present in budget or mid-range tires
EVs have no engine noise to mask road noise. Tesla T-mark tires include acoustic foam bonded to the inner liner to reduce cavity resonance. Non-foam tires can noticeably increase cabin noise on highway.
Regenerative braking wear pattern
Medium impactBraking distributed by pads — tires wear more from friction
Regen braking applies retardation via the motor, primarily through the driven axle(s). On RWD Tesla models this concentrates wear on rear tires. Rotate regularly or use a symmetric rotation pattern.
TPMS calibration
High impactStandard 32–36 PSI range for most cars
Most Tesla models specify 42 PSI cold inflation — higher than typical ICE cars because of vehicle weight and to maintain rolling efficiency. Tire TPMS sensors are factory-paired to the vehicle. Aftermarket or winter wheels need TPMS sensors programmed to the car.
Tesla T-mark (T0 / T1 / T2) tire system explained
The T-mark is Tesla's equivalent of BMW's star mark — a sidewall stamp indicating the tire was developed and tested to Tesla's specific NVH, rolling resistance, and load targets. Here is what each grade means and which brands offer it.
T0— Performance
Highest Tesla approval tier. Developed for maximum performance, with acoustic foam lining, optimised rolling resistance, and confirmed handling targets. Used on Performance trims as OEM.T1— All-Season / Range
All-season and range-optimised approval. Targets efficient touring with acoustic foam and EV load ratings. Most common replacement tier for Long Range owners prioritising range.T2— Winter / Specific
Specialised approval tier used for winter and select specific fitments. Includes cold-climate compound validation alongside the standard NVH and load requirements.Brands with Tesla T-mark approvals
| Brand | Approved lines (T0/T1) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli | P Zero (T0), P Zero Winter (T0), Cinturato All Season SF3 (T1) | Primary OEM supplier — Pirelli P Zero ships on most Model 3 Performance and Model S from factory |
| Michelin | Pilot Sport 4S (T0), e.Primacy (T1), Pilot Sport EV (T0) | Pilot Sport EV is specifically engineered with EV load and NVH requirements. e.Primacy prioritises range. |
| Continental | SportContact 6 (T0), EcoContact 6 Q (T1), WinterContact 8 (T1) | Q (Quiet) suffix indicates acoustic foam — direct T-mark equivalent for NVH improvement |
| Goodyear | Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 (T0), ElectricDrive GT (T1), Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 | ElectricDrive GT targets EV-specific wear resistance and rolling resistance |
| Hankook | Ventus S1 evo3 EV (T0), iON evo SUV (T1) | Hankook iON range is specifically designed for EV loads and rated for Model Y fitment |
| Bridgestone | Potenza Sport (T0), Turanza 6 (T1), Blizzak LM005 (T1 winter) | Turanza 6 is a leading comfort choice for Model 3 18" and 19" owners prioritising ride quality |
Are T-mark tires mandatory? No. Any tire matching OEM size, load index (98–104+), speed rating (W or Y for performance trims), and XL rating is mechanically safe. Tesla's warranty is not voided by non-T-mark tires. However, non-foam tires will produce more road noise on a Tesla than on equivalent ICE vehicles.
Tesla AWD tire matching rules
Tesla Dual Motor AWD permanently drives both axles — it is not an on-demand system that only engages when slip is detected. This makes tire diameter matching more critical than on most AWD vehicles.
Replace all four tires at the same time
Tesla dual-motor AWD drives both axles simultaneously. A new tire has a ~0.5" larger rolling circumference than a 50%-worn tire of the same size. This difference causes continuous stress on the rear motor and front motor control system every mile.
Keep all four tires the same brand, model, and size
Different tire brands with the same size code can have actual diameter differences of 3–8mm due to construction tolerances. On a dual-motor Tesla, even this small variance creates AWD imbalance. Match all four.
Do not rotate staggered tires side-to-side
Model S (2021+), Model S Plaid, Model X, and Model Y Performance use staggered setups (different front and rear sizes). Side-to-side rotation reverses directional tires and puts the wrong size on the wrong axle. Front-to-rear rotation is also not possible due to size mismatch.
If replacing one damaged tire, measure remaining tread first
If the other three tires are significantly worn, a full-size new tire will have a noticeably larger diameter. Tesla recommends replacing all four, or, as an interim, having the new tire shaved by a tire shop to match remaining tread depth.
Never use a full-size spare for extended driving
Most Teslas do not include a spare (they use a tire inflation kit). If a roadside spare from another vehicle is used temporarily, the diameter mismatch will trigger TPMS warnings and should be driven to a shop immediately for proper replacement.
Tesla winter tire guide
Tesla's AWD helps with winter acceleration but does nothing for braking and cornering on cold roads. Winter tires are essential for Tesla owners in cold climates — but there are Tesla-specific considerations that most winter tire guides miss.
Always fit all four corners
Tesla Dual Motor AWD helps with acceleration on snow but does not improve braking or cornering grip. Summer or all-season tires below 7°C (45°F) are the primary risk factor for winter crashes. Fit four matched winter tires regardless of drivetrain.
Step down one wheel diameter for winter
If your summer setup is 20" or 21", buy a second set of 18" or 19" steel or alloy wheels for winter use. A smaller diameter allows a taller sidewall — which absorbs pothole and curb impacts better on snow-covered roads and is more forgiving if you scrape a curb.
Tesla TPMS must be configured for new wheels
Each Tesla TPMS sensor is paired to the car. If you buy a second set of wheels with new sensors, you must program those sensors to the vehicle before use. Use the Tesla touchscreen: Controls → Service → Tire Configuration. Cold weather deflates tires — check PSI more frequently (42 PSI spec may read 36–38 PSI in cold).
Winter tires reduce range — plan accordingly
Winter tires have a softer, more energy-absorbing compound. Combined with cold battery chemistry, expect 20–35% range reduction in sub-freezing temperatures regardless of tire choice. EV-specific winter tires (e.g., Michelin X-Ice Snow EV) reduce this penalty vs generic winter tires.
Look for the 3PMSF snowflake symbol, not just M+S
The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on the sidewall confirms the tire has passed standardised winter traction tests. M+S (mud and snow) alone does not guarantee winter performance — it is a self-certification. Only 3PMSF-marked tires should be used in regions requiring winter tires by law.
Common Tesla tire mistakes
These are the five most common errors Tesla owners make when replacing or upgrading tires — and how to avoid each one.
Fitting non-XL load-rated tires
Why it matters: Tesla vehicles are 20–40% heavier than equivalent ICE cars. Standard Load (SL) rated tires are not spec'd for this weight and can experience premature sidewall stress, especially under hard cornering or heavy loads. All Tesla OEM tires are Extra Load (XL) rated.
What to do instead: Always match or exceed the OEM load index. Look for "XL" or "Reinforced" on the sidewall — e.g., "255/45R19 XL 104W".
Ignoring 42 PSI inflation spec
Why it matters: Most car owners are accustomed to 32–36 PSI. Tesla's recommended cold pressure is typically 42 PSI on all models. Running at typical car pressure underinflates Teslas, increases rolling resistance, reduces range, and accelerates outer edge wear.
What to do instead: Set cold inflation to 42 PSI (check your door jamb for model-specific value). Check weekly — cold ambient temperatures can drop PSI by 4–6 quickly.
Buying the cheapest tire in OEM size
Why it matters: Cheap tires often miss the critical specifications: not XL rated, no acoustic foam, higher rolling resistance, and weaker tread compounds that wear faster under instant EV torque. The result is more range loss, more noise, and earlier replacement.
What to do instead: Filter by XL rating and T0/T1 approval or EV-designated line. Premium tires on a Tesla pay back in range and cabin quiet more than on ICE vehicles.
Using winter tires in non-matching sizes without TPMS programming
Why it matters: Fitting a second winter wheel set and just swapping over without configuring TPMS causes persistent false TPMS warnings on the touchscreen and may disable the autopilot system on some software versions.
What to do instead: Program each winter wheel's TPMS sensor to the car before use: Controls → Service → Tire Configuration on the Tesla touchscreen.
Confusing Model 3 and Model Y sizes
Why it matters: Both models use 19" and 20" wheel options, but the tire sizes are different. Model 3 uses narrower 235mm tires at all sizes. Model Y uses 255mm tires (wider, for more load capacity). A 235/45R19 Model 3 tire will fit a Model Y 19" rim but is the wrong load spec.
What to do instead: Always look up sizes by model, not just wheel diameter. Use this guide's separate tables for Model 3 and Model Y.
Always verify with your door jamb sticker and the tire size calculator
Tire sizes vary by trim and production period within the same model year. Tesla has also updated specifications mid-cycle in some markets. The definitive source for your specific vehicle is always the door jamb sticker. Use the Tesla tire size calculator to verify the diameter difference before any upgrade.
Try the Tesla Tire Size Calculator
Compare any two Tesla tire sizes — diameter difference, sidewall change, speedometer deviation, and AWD compatibility check.
Frequently asked questions
The real questions Tesla owners ask about tire sizes, finding their spec, and making safe changes.