Finding the right tire size for your 2008 Acura TL shouldn’t feel like solving a complex puzzle. We’ve all been there – standing in the tire shop wondering if we’re making the right choice or scrolling through endless online options trying to decode those mysterious numbers and letters.
Your 2008 Acura TL came with exact tire dimensions that directly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Getting the wrong size can lead to speedometer inaccuracies, handling issues, and even potential damage to your car’s systems.
We’ll break down everything you need to know about your ’08 TL’s tire specifications, from the standard factory sizes to compatible alternatives. Whether you’re replacing worn tires or considering an upgrade, understanding these details will save you time, money, and frustration at the tire shop.
2008 Acura TL Original Equipment Tire Specifications
The 2008 Acura TL comes equipped with P245/50R17 tires as the standard factory specification across all trim levels. These dimensions represent a balanced combination of performance and comfort that Acura engineers selected for optimal vehicle dynamics.
Breaking down the tire size specification reveals important details about your TL’s requirements:
| Component | Specification | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| P | P245/50R17 | Passenger vehicle tire |
| 245 | P245/50R17 | Tire width in millimeters |
| 50 | P245/50R17 | Aspect ratio (sidewall height) |
| R | P245/50R17 | Radial construction |
| 17 | P245/50R17 | Wheel diameter in inches |
Factory specifications also include a load index of 98 and speed rating of V for the standard tire size. Load index 98 supports up to 1,653 pounds per tire while the V speed rating allows sustained speeds up to 149 mph.
Our research confirms that Acura originally equipped the 2008 TL with Michelin Pilot MXM4 tires in most markets. Alternative original equipment brands included Bridgestone Turanza EL400 and Continental ContiProContact depending on production timing and regional availability.
Tire pressure specifications call for 32 PSI in both front and rear positions when cold. This pressure setting optimizes the contact patch between the P245/50R17 tires and road surface for proper handling characteristics.
Manufacturing documentation indicates that all 2008 Acura TL models regardless of trim level or transmission type use identical tire specifications. Base and Type S variants both use the same P245/50R17 dimensions even though performance differences between these configurations.
Performance vs Comfort: Tire Size Considerations for the 08 Acura TL
Different trim levels of the 08 Acura TL feature varying tire specifications that directly impact driving dynamics and ride quality. Understanding these differences helps us make informed decisions when selecting replacement tires.
Base Model Tire Size Analysis
Base model 08 Acura TL vehicles typically use 235/45R17 tires as their standard configuration. This tire size provides an optimal balance between comfort and performance for everyday driving conditions.
Alternative configurations include 235/40R18 tires on certain trim levels, offering a slightly lower profile sidewall for enhanced responsiveness. The 17-inch rim diameter paired with 235/45R17 tires delivers comfortable ride characteristics while maintaining adequate handling precision.
Load ratings for these base model tires commonly feature 93W specifications, ensuring proper weight capacity and speed capabilities. Width measurements of 235 millimeters provide sufficient contact patch for stable cornering without compromising ride comfort.
| Tire Size | Rim Size | Profile Ratio | Width (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 235/45R17 | 17 inches | 45% | 235 |
| 235/40R18 | 18 inches | 40% | 235 |
Type-S Model Tire Size Differences
Type-S models distinguish themselves with more aggressive 245/40R19 tire configurations designed for enhanced performance capabilities. These wider tires deliver superior grip and handling characteristics compared to base model specifications.
The 245-millimeter width provides increased contact area with the road surface, resulting in improved cornering stability and braking performance. Lower profile sidewalls at 40% aspect ratio reduce sidewall flex during aggressive driving maneuvers.
Nineteen-inch rim diameters accommodate larger brake components while contributing to the Type-S model’s sporty appearance. Performance oriented tire compounds typically accompany these larger dimensions, prioritizing handling precision over ride comfort.
Tire size variations between Type-S models aren’t universally standardized across all sources, making verification with exact vehicle documentation essential for accurate fitment.
Best Tire Brands and Models for Your 2008 Acura TL
Selecting the right tire brand significantly impacts your driving experience beyond just matching the correct size specifications. We’ve compiled comprehensive recommendations based on performance testing and real industry durability data.
All-Season Tire Recommendations
Michelin Defender T+H delivers exceptional tread life with proven all weather grip capabilities for daily driving scenarios. Testing shows this tire provides up to 80,000 miles of tread wear while maintaining consistent performance across wet and dry conditions.
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady excels in traction performance with its specialized tread compound that adapts to temperature changes. Rain and snow handling receives high marks from independent testing organizations while ride comfort remains smooth on highway surfaces.
Continental TrueContact Tour combines fuel efficiency benefits with reliable all season handling characteristics. This tire reduces rolling resistance by 15% compared to standard models while delivering confident cornering stability for your TL’s front wheel drive configuration.
Performance Tire Options
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S represents the premium tier for ultra high performance applications with superior grip levels and precise steering response. Track testing demonstrates 20% shorter braking distances compared to standard tires while maintaining excellent wet weather capabilities.
Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS strikes an optimal balance between performance driving dynamics and year round usability. Dry pavement handling reaches sports car levels while retaining sufficient traction for light snow conditions that all season drivers encounter.
Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus provides high performance characteristics with enhanced dry and wet traction ratings from tire testing facilities. Cornering precision improves noticeably over standard tires while noise levels remain acceptable for daily commuting in your Acura TL.
Plus Sizing: Upgrading Your 08 Acura TL Tire Size
Plus sizing allows 2008 Acura TL owners to increase wheel diameter while maintaining the original overall tire diameter through reduced sidewall height. The process involves upgrading from the standard 235/45R17 configuration to larger options like 245/40R18 for plus one sizing or 255/35R19 for plus two sizing.
Benefits of Larger Wheel and Tire Combinations
Handling improves significantly with larger tire configurations on the 2008 Acura TL due to reduced sidewall flex during cornering. Wider contact patches provide enhanced grip, particularly beneficial when upgrading from 235mm to 245mm or 255mm widths. Visual appeal increases dramatically as larger wheels fill the wheel wells more completely, creating a sportier appearance that complements the TL’s sedan profile.
Performance gains become noticeable in braking response and steering precision with lower profile tires. Acceleration benefits from reduced sidewall deflection, allowing more efficient power transfer to the road surface. Track enthusiasts often report improved lap times after upgrading to 18-inch or 19-inch wheel configurations on their Acura TL models.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Cost increases substantially when upgrading to larger wheel and tire combinations, with 18-inch setups typically costing 40-60% more than standard 17-inch configurations. Replacement costs escalate further with 19-inch options due to limited tire availability and premium pricing. Installation expenses may include additional mounting and balancing fees for larger diameter wheels.
Ride quality becomes firmer with reduced sidewall height, transmitting more road imperfections to the cabin. Comfort levels decrease as the tire’s ability to absorb impacts diminishes with lower profile configurations. Daily driving becomes less forgiving on rough surfaces compared to the original 50-series sidewall height.
Clearance issues can develop with larger tire diameters, potentially causing rubbing against fender wells during full steering lock or suspension compression. Weight increases with larger wheel and tire combinations affect fuel economy negatively, reducing the TL’s EPA-rated efficiency. Performance may suffer in acceleration due to increased unsprung weight rotating mass.
Seasonal Tire Considerations for the 2008 Acura TL
Different seasons demand exact tire characteristics to optimize your 2008 Acura TL’s performance and safety. Temperature variations and road conditions significantly impact tire rubber compounds and tread patterns.
Winter Tire Size Options
Winter tires for the 2008 Acura TL work best when matched to the standard 235/45R17 configuration. These specialized tires incorporate unique rubber compounds that remain flexible in temperatures below 45°F, unlike all season alternatives that harden in cold conditions.
Dedicated snow tires with aggressive tread patterns provide superior traction on ice and snow covered surfaces. The 235/45R17 winter tire size maintains proper speedometer accuracy while delivering enhanced grip through deeper grooves and biting edges.
Alternative winter configurations include 225/50R17 tires, which offer slightly narrower contact patches that cut through snow more effectively. This size maintains the overall diameter within acceptable parameters for your TL’s electronic systems.
Load ratings remain crucial when selecting winter tires, requiring a minimum 93W specification to support your vehicle’s weight safely. Professional installation ensures proper mounting and balancing for optimal winter performance.
Summer Performance Tire Sizing
Summer performance tires excel in warm weather conditions with specialized compounds designed for temperatures above 50°F. The 245/45R18 configuration provides enhanced contact patch area for superior cornering grip and steering response.
Higher performance models benefit from 245/40R19 summer tires that deliver maximum road contact through wider footprints and lower sidewall profiles. These dimensions reduce sidewall flex during aggressive cornering while maintaining proper load capacity ratings.
Performance oriented summer compounds offer improved dry traction but compromise wet weather capabilities compared to all season alternatives. The larger 18 inch and 19 inch wheel diameters accommodate bigger brake components while reducing unsprung weight.
Temperature sensitive rubber formulations in summer tires become dangerously hard below 40°F, making seasonal changes essential for safety. Professional tire storage services protect unused seasonal sets from UV damage and temperature extremes between seasons.
Cost Analysis: OEM vs Aftermarket Tire Options
The choice between OEM and aftermarket tires for your 2008 Acura TL significantly impacts both your budget and driving experience. OEM tires represent the original equipment manufacturer specifications, typically featuring performance-oriented designs that match your vehicle’s handling characteristics. Aftermarket alternatives provide broader selection options across different price ranges and performance categories.
OEM Tire Pricing Structure
Original equipment tires for the 2008 Acura TL’s standard P245/50R17 size range from $120 to $200 per tire depending on the exact brand and performance category. Michelin Pilot MXM4 tires, which came as original equipment, maintain premium pricing due to their engineered specifications for Acura vehicles. Bridgestone Turanza EL400 and Continental ContiProContact options fall within similar price brackets, reflecting their OEM status and guaranteed fitment standards.
Aftermarket Cost Advantages
Quality aftermarket tires start around $80 per tire for reliable all-season options in the P245/50R17 configuration. Mid-range aftermarket selections typically cost between $100 to $150 per tire, offering comparable performance to OEM specifications. Premium aftermarket brands can exceed $180 per tire, sometimes matching or surpassing OEM pricing while providing enhanced features or warranties.
Performance and Warranty Considerations
| Tire Type | Price Range | Warranty Coverage | Performance Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM Tires | $120-$200 | Manufacturer-backed | Optimized for Acura TL |
| Aftermarket Budget | $80-$120 | Brand-exact | Variable compatibility |
| Aftermarket Premium | $150-$200+ | Extended warranties | Enhanced features available |
Manufacturer warranties typically cover OEM tires with comprehensive road hazard and tread life guarantees. Aftermarket warranties vary significantly between brands, with some offering mileage guarantees exceeding 60,000 miles. Installation costs add approximately $25 to $40 per tire for mounting, balancing, and disposal fees regardless of tire choice.
Long-term Value Assessment
OEM tires provide predictable performance characteristics specifically calibrated for your 2008 Acura TL’s suspension tuning and weight distribution. Aftermarket tires offer flexibility in choosing exact performance attributes like enhanced wet weather traction, extended tread life, or improved fuel efficiency. Budget-conscious drivers can achieve substantial savings with quality aftermarket brands while maintaining safety standards and performance expectations for daily driving needs.
Installation and Maintenance Tips for 08 Acura TL Tires
Professional tire installation ensures optimal performance and safety for your 2008 Acura TL. We recommend verifying the 5×114.3 bolt pattern, 64.1 mm center bore, and factory offset between +45 to +55 mm before mounting new tires. Torque specifications require precise application using a calibrated torque wrench set to 80 ft-lbs for proper lug nut tightening.
Visual inspection becomes critical before installing any tire on your Acura TL. Examine each wheel and tire for cracks, bulges, or irregular wear patterns that could compromise safety. Professional balancing after installation prevents vibration and extends tire life significantly.
Tire Pressure Monitoring and Rotation
Monthly pressure checks maintain optimal handling and fuel efficiency for your 08 Acura TL tires. Locate the recommended PSI specifications on your driver’s side door jamb or owner’s manual for accurate measurements. Cold tire pressure readings provide the most reliable data for proper inflation.
Tire rotation every 5,000 to 8,000 miles promotes even tread wear across all four positions. Front-to-rear rotation patterns work best for the standard 235/45R17 configuration on most 2008 models. Cross rotation patterns suit vehicles with different front and rear tire sizes.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure Check | Monthly | Per door jamb sticker |
| Tire Rotation | 5,000-8,000 miles | Front-to-rear pattern |
| Alignment Check | Annually | Professional service |
| Tread Depth | Quarterly | 2/32″ minimum |
Alignment and Tread Monitoring
Annual wheel alignment checks prevent premature tire wear and maintain proper vehicle handling. Pulling to one side indicates immediate alignment attention regardless of the scheduled interval. Professional alignment services ensure your 08 Acura TL tracks straight and maximizes tire life.
Tread depth gauges provide accurate measurements for safe driving conditions. The penny test offers a quick field check by inserting Lincoln’s head into the tread grooves. Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inches or shows uneven wear patterns.
Seasonal Tire Considerations
Winter tire installation improves traction and safety in cold climates below 45°F. Dedicated winter compounds remain flexible in freezing temperatures unlike all-season alternatives. Store seasonal tires in cool, dry locations away from direct sunlight to prevent rubber degradation.
Seasonal changeovers require proper torque specifications and balanced mounting for optimal performance. Professional installation services ensure correct fitment and eliminate potential safety concerns from improper mounting procedures.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about selecting the right tires for your 2008 Acura TL. From understanding the standard P245/50R17 specifications to exploring plus-sizing options and seasonal considerations we’ve equipped you with the knowledge to make confident tire decisions.
Remember that proper maintenance and professional installation are just as important as choosing the right tire size. Whether you opt for OEM replacements or quality aftermarket alternatives your focus should remain on safety performance and value.
Your 2008 Acura TL deserves tires that match its engineering excellence. With the information we’ve shared you’re ready to find the perfect tire solution that keeps your vehicle performing at its best while staying within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard tire size for a 2008 Acura TL?
The standard factory tire size for all 2008 Acura TL models is P245/50R17. This specification applies across all trim levels and transmission types. The tires have a load index of 98 (supporting up to 1,653 pounds per tire) and a speed rating of V (up to 149 mph). The recommended tire pressure is 32 PSI for both front and rear tires when cold.
What do the numbers in P245/50R17 tire size mean?
P245/50R17 breaks down as follows: “P” indicates passenger vehicle tire, “245” is the tire width in millimeters, “50” represents the aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width), “R” denotes radial construction, and “17” is the wheel diameter in inches. This sizing system is standardized across the tire industry for easy identification and replacement.
Can I use different tire sizes on my 2008 Acura TL?
Yes, alternative sizes are available depending on your trim level and preferences. Base models may use 235/45R17, while Type-S models can accommodate 245/40R19 for enhanced performance. Plus sizing options like 245/45R18 are also possible. However, always verify compatibility with your specific vehicle documentation to ensure proper fitment and avoid performance issues.
What are the best tire brands for a 2008 Acura TL?
For all-season tires, top recommendations include Michelin Defender T+H for longevity, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady for weather adaptability, and Continental TrueContact Tour for fuel efficiency. For performance tires, consider Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS, or Pirelli P Zero All Season Plus. The original equipment Michelin Pilot MXM4 remains an excellent choice.
How much do replacement tires cost for a 2008 Acura TL?
OEM tires typically range from $120 to $200 per tire, with premium options like Michelin Pilot MXM4 at the higher end. Quality aftermarket alternatives start around $80, with mid-range options between $100-$150 offering comparable performance. While OEM tires provide predictable performance, quality aftermarket options can offer substantial savings without compromising safety.
Do I need different tires for winter driving?
Yes, winter tires are highly recommended for cold climates. The standard 235/45R17 configuration works well for winter tires, which feature special rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures and aggressive tread patterns for better traction. Alternative winter sizes like 225/50R17 are also available while maintaining proper speedometer accuracy.
How often should I rotate my 2008 Acura TL tires?
Tire rotation should be performed every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even tread wear and maintain optimal handling. Additionally, check tire pressure monthly, perform annual alignment checks, and monitor tread depth regularly. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper torque settings and optimal performance for your Acura TL’s 5×114.3 bolt pattern.