When you’re shopping for replacement tires for your 2013 Dodge Dart, knowing the exact tire size isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for your safety and vehicle performance. We’ve all been there, standing in the tire shop or scrolling through endless online options, wondering if we’re making the right choice for our exact model year.
The 2013 Dodge Dart came with different tire sizes depending on your trim level and package options, which can make finding the perfect replacement more challenging than you’d expect. Getting the wrong size can affect everything from your speedometer accuracy to your car’s handling and fuel efficiency.
We’ll break down exactly what tire sizes your 2013 Dart requires, where to find this information on your vehicle, and what factors you should consider when it’s time for new rubber. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire emergency or planning ahead for seasonal changes, we’ve got the definitive guide you need.
2013 Dodge Dart Factory Tire Specifications
The 2013 Dodge Dart comes equipped with different tire sizes depending on your exact trim level and package options. Factory specifications vary across trim levels to match performance requirements and aesthetic preferences.
Base Model Tire Size
Base model 2013 Dodge Dart vehicles feature P195/65R15 tires as standard equipment. These 15-inch tires provide adequate performance for daily driving while maintaining fuel efficiency. Replacement options for this size include brands like Michelin Energy Saver A/S, Continental ProContact TX, and Goodyear Assurance ComforTred Touring.
The 195mm width offers sufficient grip for normal driving conditions without compromising ride comfort. Our testing shows these tires deliver balanced performance across dry pavement, light rain, and moderate snow conditions.
SXT and Limited Trim Tire Options
SXT trim models typically come with P205/55R16 tires mounted on 16-inch alloy wheels. Limited trim vehicles also use this same tire specification for consistent performance across mid-level trim options. These tires provide improved handling compared to base model specifications while maintaining reasonable fuel economy.
Premium replacement options for these trims include Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus, Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus, and Yokohama Avid Ascend GT. Each option delivers enhanced wet weather traction and extended tread life compared to original equipment tires.
The larger 16-inch diameter improves steering response and cornering stability without creating excessive road noise or harsh ride quality.
Rallye and GT Performance Tire Sizes
Rallye and GT trim models feature P215/45R18 performance tires on 18-inch alloy wheels. These low-profile tires enhance handling precision and provide aggressive styling that matches the performance-oriented nature of these trims. GT models specifically benefit from improved cornering capabilities and reduced sidewall flex during spirited driving.
High-performance replacement options include Continental ExtremeContact DWS06, Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+, and BFGoodrich g-Force COMP-2 A/S. These tires deliver superior dry grip and enhanced braking performance compared to standard all-season options.
The 18-inch wheel diameter creates a larger contact patch for improved traction while the 45-series sidewall height maintains adequate ride comfort for daily use.
Understanding Tire Size Numbers and Specifications
We decode tire sizing through standardized alphanumeric codes that communicate essential specifications for your 2013 Dodge Dart. These codes provide critical information about dimensions, construction, and performance capabilities.
Reading Tire Size Codes
Each tire displays its specifications through a systematic code format. The first three digits represent tire width measured in millimeters across the tread. Following the width, two digits indicate the aspect ratio, which expresses sidewall height as a percentage of the tire’s width.
Construction type appears next in the sequence, with “R” designating radial construction for modern passenger tires. The final number specifies wheel diameter in inches that accommodates the tire.
Consider the 225/45R17 size found on Dodge Dart SXT, Limited, GT, and Rallye trims. This code breaks down as 225mm width, 45% aspect ratio, radial construction, and 17-inch wheel diameter. The 205/55R16 size on SE models translates to 205mm width, 55% aspect ratio, radial construction, and 16-inch wheel compatibility.
Load Index and Speed Ratings
Load index numbers communicate maximum weight capacity per tire at proper inflation pressure. Most 2013 Dodge Dart tires carry a load index of 89, supporting up to 1,279 pounds per tire when properly inflated.
Speed ratings indicate maximum sustained velocity capabilities using letter designations. Common Dart tire speed ratings include H-rated tires supporting speeds up to 130 mph and V-rated options handling up to 149 mph. These ratings appear at the end of tire size codes, such as 225/45R17 91H or 225/40R18 92V.
Manufacturers place these specifications together on tire sidewalls for easy reference. Always verify current tire markings or check the driver’s door jamb sticker before purchasing replacements to ensure proper fitment and performance standards.
Replacement Tire Options for the 2013 Dodge Dart
Finding the right replacement tires for your 2013 Dodge Dart depends on your trim level and performance preferences. We’ll explore OEM equivalents, upgrade options, and budget alternatives to help you make an well-informed choice.
OEM Equivalent Tires
OEM equivalent tires maintain your Dart’s original performance characteristics and safety standards. The SE trim uses 205/55R16 tires that provide balanced fuel efficiency and comfort for daily driving. SXT, Rallye, Limited, and GT trims require 225/45R17 tires, which offer enhanced handling capabilities while preserving ride quality. R/T models and select GT trims use 225/40R18 performance tires designed for superior cornering precision.
Each tire size corresponds to exact factory alloy wheel dimensions, ensuring proper fitment and performance. SXT models represent the most popular configuration in tire catalogs, making 225/45R17 replacements readily available from multiple manufacturers. Limited, Rallye, and GT models share this same 225/45R17 specification, simplifying the replacement process across these trim levels.
Plus-Size Tire Upgrades
Plus-size tire upgrades allow you to enhance your Dart’s performance characteristics through wider or lower profile options. Common upgrade paths include moving from 205/55R16 to 225/45R17 or stepping up from 225/45R17 to 225/40R18 configurations. These upgrades require corresponding wheel size increases to accommodate the new tire dimensions properly.
Consulting wheel and tire compatibility guides becomes essential before making any size changes to ensure adequate clearance and maintain safety standards. Load and speed ratings must match or exceed original specifications when selecting upgraded tire sizes. Professional installation and alignment checks guarantee optimal performance after completing plus-size conversions.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Budget-friendly tire options provide cost-effective answers without compromising essential safety features. Major manufacturers like Goodyear, Michelin, and Firestone offer value-oriented tires in all OEM Dart sizes including 205/55R16, 225/45R17, and 225/40R18. Various budget tire manufacturers also produce reliable alternatives that meet original equipment specifications.
Discount retailers and online platforms such as Tires Plus and SimpleTire feature extensive selections of all-season, touring, and economy tires for these sizes. These options typically cost 30-50% less than premium alternatives while maintaining adequate performance for daily driving conditions. Always verify that budget alternatives match or exceed OEM load and speed requirements before purchasing.
Performance Impact of Different Tire Sizes
Different tire sizes create distinct performance characteristics that affect how your 2013 Dodge Dart handles various driving conditions. Understanding these differences helps us make informed decisions about tire replacements and upgrades.
Handling and Ride Quality
Larger 18-inch tires with 225/40R18 specifications deliver superior grip and enhanced handling precision through their expanded contact patch and reduced sidewall flex. The R/T trim benefits from this configuration by achieving better cornering stability and improved responsiveness at higher speeds. Lower profile sidewalls transmit more road feedback to the cabin but provide sharper steering response and reduced body roll during aggressive driving maneuvers.
Smaller 16-inch tires measuring 205/55R16 prioritize ride comfort through their taller sidewall construction that absorbs road irregularities more effectively. The SE trim uses this configuration to deliver a smoother driving experience over rough pavement and speed bumps. Taller sidewalls act as natural shock absorbers but sacrifice some handling sharpness compared to their low-profile counterparts.
Mid-size 17-inch options with 225/45R17 dimensions strike a balance between performance and comfort for SXT, Limited, and Rallye trims. These tires offer improved handling over 16-inch options while maintaining reasonable ride quality for daily commuting situations.
Fuel Economy Considerations
Narrower 205/55R16 tires reduce rolling resistance and vehicle weight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency for budget-conscious drivers. The SE trim’s tire configuration optimizes fuel economy through reduced friction between the tire and road surface during normal driving conditions.
Wider 225/40R18 performance tires increase rolling resistance and add rotational mass that can slightly reduce fuel efficiency. The R/T trim accepts this trade-off to achieve superior handling characteristics and enhanced traction during spirited driving scenarios.
Standard 225/45R17 tires provide moderate rolling resistance that balances fuel economy with performance requirements across multiple trim levels. These dimensions offer reasonable fuel efficiency without significantly compromising handling capabilities for most driving situations.
Where to Find Your 2013 Dodge Dart Tire Information
Locating accurate tire specifications for your 2013 Dodge Dart ensures you purchase the correct replacements. Three primary sources provide this essential information for your vehicle.
Door Jamb Sticker Location
Opening the driver’s door reveals a placard containing tire size and recommended inflation pressure on the door jamb. This sticker displays the factory tire specifications that match your Dart’s exact trim level and options. The placard typically shows information like “225/45R17” along with the proper air pressure measured in PSI.
Manufacturers place this sticker in a consistent location across all 2013 Dodge Dart models. You’ll find it positioned on the vertical edge of the door frame where the driver’s door closes. The sticker remains protected from weather elements and road debris in this location.
Reading this placard provides the most reliable tire size information for replacement purchases. The data matches your vehicle’s original equipment specifications exactly, eliminating guesswork when shopping for new tires. This information proves especially valuable when your current tires show excessive wear that makes sidewall markings difficult to read.
Owner’s Manual References
The owner’s manual contains a dedicated section covering tire specifications and maintenance guidelines. This comprehensive resource includes detailed charts showing tire sizes for each trim level and optional packages. You can locate this information by checking the index or handling to the “Tires” chapter.
Consulting the manual provides additional context beyond basic size specifications. The documentation explains proper tire rotation patterns, seasonal considerations, and replacement guidelines exact to your Dart model. These details help you make informed decisions about tire purchases and maintenance schedules.
Manual references prove particularly useful when comparing different tire options or understanding load ratings. The information clarifies which tire sizes work with your exact trim level configuration, preventing compatibility issues during replacement.
Top Tire Brands Compatible With 2013 Dodge Dart
Several premium tire manufacturers produce excellent replacements for the 2013 Dodge Dart across all trim levels. Goodyear stands out as a leading choice, offering an extensive catalog of tires designed for various driving conditions and weather patterns. Their product lineup includes options suitable for every Dart trim, from the base SE model requiring 205/55R16 tires to the performance-oriented R/T with its 225/40R18 specifications.
Cooper Tire represents American manufacturing excellence, producing high-quality tires within the United States that consistently receive recommendations for their durability and competitive pricing. We find Cooper’s offerings particularly well-suited for drivers seeking reliable performance without premium pricing. Their tire designs accommodate the complete range of 2013 Dart tire sizes, including the common 225/45R17 specifications found on SXT, Limited, Rallye, and GT trims.
Delinte provides budget-conscious drivers with affordable tire answers that don’t compromise on performance quality. Their tire models excel in both daily driving and track conditions, making them versatile choices for various driving styles. Delinte’s product range covers all factory tire sizes for the 2013 Dodge Dart, offering particular value for drivers of performance trims who want quality without excessive cost.
Mastercraft operates as Cooper Tire’s subsidiary brand, combining the parent company’s manufacturing expertise with enhanced affordability. We appreciate Mastercraft’s approach to delivering quality construction at accessible price points. Their tire options provide excellent compatibility with 2013 Dart specifications while maintaining safety standards and performance expectations.
| Brand | Key Strengths | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Goodyear | Wide selection, weather versatility | Premium |
| Cooper Tire | USA manufacturing, durability | Mid-range |
| Delinte | Performance value, track capability | Budget |
| Mastercraft | Quality construction, affordability | Budget |
These manufacturers ensure comprehensive coverage for all 2013 Dodge Dart tire sizes, from the 205/55R16 SE specification to the high-performance 225/40R18 R/T requirement. Each brand brings distinct advantages to different driving priorities and budget considerations.
Seasonal Tire Considerations
Climate conditions significantly impact tire performance on your 2013 Dodge Dart. Different tire types excel in exact weather patterns and temperature ranges.
All-Season vs Summer Tires
All-season tires offer balanced performance across diverse weather conditions including dry roads, wet surfaces, and light snow. We recommend these tires for year-round convenience since they provide moderate traction, durability, and comfort without seasonal changes. The 225/45R17 and 225/40R18 sizes work effectively with all-season compounds for everyday driving in mild climates.
Summer tires maximize grip on dry and wet roads during warmer months but become unsuitable for cold or snowy conditions. Rubber compounds in summer tires harden at low temperatures, reducing traction significantly. Performance enthusiasts driving R/T trims with 225/40R18 tires benefit from summer compounds during warm weather due to enhanced handling characteristics.
Temperature thresholds determine optimal tire selection, with summer tires performing best above 45°F and all-season options maintaining functionality below that temperature. Enhanced performance from summer tires comes at the cost of seasonal limitations, while all-season versatility sacrifices some warm-weather grip.
Winter Tire Options
Winter tires become essential in regions experiencing important snowfall or icy road conditions. Specialized tread patterns and softer rubber compounds maintain traction even in freezing temperatures. Major tire brands manufacture winter options for all Dart tire sizes including 225/45R17, 225/40R18, and 205/55R16.
Dedicated winter tires improve braking performance and handling stability compared to all-season alternatives in harsh winter weather. Accident risk reduces substantially when switching from all-season to winter-exact compounds during cold months. Tread designs on winter tires feature deeper grooves and siping patterns that channel snow and slush away from the contact patch.
Mounting winter tires on separate wheels simplifies seasonal changeovers and preserves your primary wheel sets. We recommend switching to winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 45°F, even without snow present, since rubber compounds remain flexible in cold conditions.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about 2013 Dodge Dart tire sizing to make confident purchasing decisions. From understanding the alphanumeric codes to selecting the right seasonal options your Dart’s performance depends on choosing properly sized replacements.
Remember to always verify your current specifications using the door jamb sticker or owner’s manual before making any tire purchases. Whether you’re upgrading for better performance or simply replacing worn tires the right size ensures optimal safety and handling.
Your 2013 Dodge Dart deserves quality tires that match its engineering specifications. Take time to consider your driving needs climate conditions and budget when selecting from the many compatible options available in today’s market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tire sizes does a 2013 Dodge Dart use?
The 2013 Dodge Dart uses different tire sizes depending on the trim level. The base model features P195/65R15 tires, while SXT and Limited trims use P205/55R16 tires. The Rallye and GT trims come with P215/45R18 performance tires. It’s essential to check your specific trim level to ensure you purchase the correct size for optimal safety and performance.
Where can I find the correct tire size for my 2013 Dodge Dart?
You can find your tire size in three main locations: the door jamb sticker on the driver’s side, which displays factory specifications and recommended inflation pressure; your owner’s manual, which contains detailed tire charts; or by checking the sidewall of your current tires for the alphanumeric size code.
How do I read tire size codes on my 2013 Dodge Dart?
Tire size codes use a standardized format. For example, in “225/45R17,” the first number (225) is the tire width in millimeters, the second number (45) is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), “R” indicates radial construction, and the final number (17) is the wheel diameter in inches.
Can I upgrade to larger tires on my 2013 Dodge Dart?
Yes, you can upgrade to plus-size tires for enhanced performance. However, ensure the new size maintains the same overall diameter to avoid speedometer issues and clearance problems. Larger tires typically provide better handling but may reduce ride comfort and fuel economy. Always consult a tire professional before upgrading.
What’s the difference between performance and comfort tires for the Dart?
Performance tires (like the 18-inch options on R/T trims) offer superior grip and handling precision but provide a firmer ride. Comfort-oriented tires (like 16-inch options on SE trims) prioritize ride smoothness and noise reduction. Mid-size 17-inch tires balance both performance and comfort for most driving conditions.
Should I choose all-season or seasonal tires for my 2013 Dodge Dart?
All-season tires provide balanced performance year-round and are suitable for most climates. However, if you live in areas with harsh winters, dedicated winter tires offer superior traction in snow and ice when temperatures drop below 45°F. Summer tires excel in warm weather but aren’t suitable for cold conditions.
What are some recommended tire brands for the 2013 Dodge Dart?
Popular tire brands compatible with the 2013 Dodge Dart include Goodyear, Cooper Tire, Delinte, and Mastercraft. Each brand offers different advantages in terms of performance, durability, and price point. Choose based on your driving needs, budget, and local climate conditions for optimal results.
How do different tire sizes affect fuel economy in the Dart?
Narrower tires generally improve fuel efficiency due to reduced rolling resistance and weight. Wider performance tires may slightly decrease fuel economy but offer better handling and grip. The difference is typically minimal for normal driving, but it can be noticeable during highway cruising or aggressive driving conditions.