When it comes to maintaining our 2013 Honda CR-V, we can’t overlook the importance of having the right tire size. The wrong tires don’t just affect our vehicle’s performance – they can compromise safety and fuel efficiency too.
We’ve all been there: standing in the tire shop wondering if we’re making the right choice. For 2013 CR-V owners, understanding the correct tire specifications isn’t just about replacing what’s worn out – it’s about optimizing our SUV’s handling, comfort, and overall driving experience.
Whether we’re dealing with seasonal tire changes, unexpected wear, or simply want to upgrade our ride quality, knowing the exact tire size for our 2013 Honda CR-V is essential. The good news? We’re here to break down everything we need to know about tire sizing, from factory specifications to performance considerations that’ll help us make the smartest choice for our driving needs.
2013 Honda CR-V Factory Tire Specifications
The 2013 Honda CR-V comes with exact factory tire dimensions that Honda engineers selected to optimize performance and safety. Understanding these specifications helps us make informed replacement decisions when the time comes.
Standard Tire Size Options
Factory specifications for the 2013 Honda CR-V include two primary tire size options depending on the trim level. Base LX models come equipped with 225/65R17 tires as standard equipment. Higher trim levels like the EX and EX-L feature 225/60R18 tires for enhanced performance characteristics.
Both tire sizes maintain Honda’s recommended load index and speed ratings for optimal vehicle operation. The 225 width measurement remains consistent across all trim levels, providing uniform contact patch characteristics. Sidewall height varies between the 65 and 60 aspect ratios to accommodate different wheel diameters while maintaining overall tire diameter specifications.
| Trim Level | Tire Size | Wheel Size | Sidewall Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 225/65R17 | 17 inches | 146.25mm |
| EX/EX-L | 225/60R18 | 18 inches | 135mm |
Wheel Diameter and Width Details
Standard wheel specifications for the 2013 Honda CR-V feature 17-inch diameter wheels on LX models with a 7-inch width. EX and EX-L trim levels use 18-inch diameter wheels maintaining the same 7-inch width measurement. Bolt pattern remains consistent at 5×114.3mm across all trim configurations.
Offset measurements stay at +55mm for proper wheel positioning and suspension geometry. Hub bore diameter measures 64.1mm on all factory wheels to ensure precise centering on the vehicle’s hub assembly. These specifications directly impact tire mounting compatibility and overall vehicle dynamics when selecting replacement options.
Understanding Tire Size Numbers for the 2013 CR-V
Reading tire markings correctly ensures you select compatible replacements for your 2013 Honda CR-V. The alphanumeric sequence contains essential specifications that determine fit and performance characteristics.
How to Read Tire Size Markings
Tire sidewalls display standardized markings that follow a exact format for the 2013 CR-V’s 225/65R17 specification. We locate these numbers on the tire’s outer sidewall where they appear prominently molded into the rubber surface. The sequence reads from left to right starting with the width measurement in millimeters.
Reading begins with identifying the first three digits which represent tire width. Next comes a forward slash followed by the aspect ratio percentage. The construction type letter appears immediately after the aspect ratio number. Finally the rim diameter measurement completes the primary size designation.
What Each Number Means
Width measurements for the 2013 CR-V’s standard 225/65R17 tire indicate 225 millimeters across the tread surface. This dimension affects contact patch size and steering response characteristics. The measurement represents the distance between sidewall edges when the tire mounts on its specified rim width.
Aspect ratio numbers like 65 express the sidewall height as a percentage of the tire width. We calculate this by multiplying 225 millimeters by 0.65 to get 146.25 millimeters of sidewall height. Lower aspect ratios create shorter sidewalls that improve handling responsiveness.
Construction type designation uses the letter R to indicate radial tire construction for the CR-V. Radial construction layers steel belts at 90-degree angles to the direction of travel. This design provides better fuel economy and longer tread life compared to bias-ply alternatives.
Rim diameter specifications show 17 inches for the standard CR-V tire size. The measurement represents the wheel’s diameter from bead seat to bead seat. Larger diameter wheels like the available 18-inch option reduce sidewall height while maintaining overall tire diameter.
OEM vs Aftermarket Tire Options
Honda engineers designed the 2013 CR-V with exact tire sizes that deliver optimal performance and safety standards. We can explore both factory recommendations and alternative options to find the best fit for your driving needs.
Original Equipment Manufacturer Recommendations
215/70R16 serves as the standard tire size for base model 2013 Honda CR-V vehicles. This configuration provides excellent fuel efficiency and comfortable ride quality for daily commuting.
225/65R17 equips the EX and EX-L models with enhanced handling characteristics. These tires mount on 17×6.5 alloy wheels and offer improved cornering stability compared to the base model option.
225/60R18 appears on select 2013 CR-V variants as a premium tire option. The larger diameter reduces sidewall height while maintaining overall tire circumference for accurate speedometer readings.
| Tire Size | Model Trim | Wheel Size | Primary Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 215/70R16 | Base | 16×6.5 | Fuel efficiency, comfort |
| 225/65R17 | EX, EX-L | 17×6.5 | Balanced performance |
| 225/60R18 | Select models | 18×7.0 | Enhanced handling |
Popular Alternative Tire Sizes
235/65R17 offers increased traction and stability for drivers seeking enhanced performance. This size provides a wider contact patch while maintaining compatibility with factory wheel specifications.
235/60R18 delivers sportier handling characteristics with reduced sidewall flex. The larger wheel diameter creates a more responsive steering feel during cornering maneuvers.
235/55R19 represents an aggressive aftermarket option for enthusiasts wanting maximum visual impact. Installing this size requires aftermarket wheels and may affect ride comfort on rough surfaces.
245/60R17 and 245/55R18 configurations work with exact wheel setups for drivers prioritizing grip and performance. These wider tires demand careful consideration of wheel offset and fender clearance to prevent rubbing issues.
Performance Considerations for Different Tire Sizes
Different tire sizes create distinct performance characteristics that affect your 2013 Honda CR-V’s driving dynamics. Understanding these variations helps optimize your vehicle’s capabilities based on your exact driving needs.
Impact on Fuel Economy
Larger tires directly reduce fuel efficiency through increased rolling resistance and weight. The 225/60R18 and 235/60R18 options consume more fuel compared to the standard 215/70R16 size due to their broader contact patches and heavier construction materials.
Rolling resistance increases approximately 2-3% for every 10mm of additional tire width, meaning the 235mm width options can decrease fuel economy by 4-6% compared to the base 215mm configuration. The 215/70R16 size delivers optimal fuel efficiency for city driving because its taller sidewall reduces energy loss during acceleration and maintains lower rotational mass.
Highway driving benefits from the 215/70R16 size as well, with owners typically experiencing 1-2 mpg improvements over larger tire configurations. Weight differences between tire sizes range from 2-5 pounds per tire, creating a 8-20 pound total vehicle weight increase that directly impacts acceleration and braking efficiency.
Handling and Ride Comfort Changes
Larger diameter tires with lower profiles enhance cornering precision and steering response. The 225/60R18 and 235/60R18 options reduce sidewall flex during turns, creating more predictable handling characteristics on curves and highway merging situations.
Sidewall height differences significantly affect ride quality across the CR-V tire size range. The 215/70R16 configuration provides 150.5mm of sidewall height, while the 225/60R18 offers only 135mm, reducing shock absorption by approximately 10%.
Road impact harshness increases with lower profile tires, particularly the 18-inch wheel combinations that transmit more road imperfections to the cabin. The 225/65R17 size strikes an optimal balance, delivering 146.25mm of sidewall cushioning while maintaining responsive handling characteristics.
Braking performance improves with larger tire contact patches, as the 235mm width options provide approximately 15% more surface area compared to the 215mm base size. Wet weather traction benefits similarly, with wider tires offering enhanced grip during emergency maneuvers and routine driving conditions.
Best Tire Brands for the 2013 Honda CR-V
Selecting the right tire brand enhances your 2013 Honda CR-V’s performance and ensures optimal safety on the road. Top manufacturers offer specialized tire options that complement the CR-V’s engineering specifications and deliver consistent quality across different driving conditions.
All-Season Tire Recommendations
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady delivers exceptional wet weather performance for 225/65R17 applications and features advanced tread compound technology that maintains grip across temperature variations. Firestone All Season tires provide reliable year-round traction at competitive pricing points while offering extended treadwear warranties that reduce long-term replacement costs.
Michelin Defender T+H combines superior durability with fuel efficiency optimization through low rolling resistance construction that complements the CR-V’s economy focused design. Continental TrueContact Tour enhances comfort levels with noise reduction technology and delivers consistent handling characteristics that match Honda’s original performance specifications.
| Tire Brand | Model | Size Compatibility | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goodyear | Assurance WeatherReady | 225/65R17, 215/70R16 | Enhanced wet traction, temperature adaptability |
| Firestone | All Season | 225/65R17, 215/70R16 | Competitive pricing, extended warranties |
| Michelin | Defender T+H | 225/65R17, 215/70R16 | Low rolling resistance, fuel efficiency |
| Continental | TrueContact Tour | 225/65R17, 215/70R16 | Noise reduction, comfort optimization |
Winter and Summer Tire Options
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 excels in snow and ice conditions with specialized rubber compounds that remain flexible at temperatures below 45°F. Michelin X-Ice Xi3 provides superior braking performance on icy surfaces through advanced siping technology that creates additional biting edges for enhanced traction.
Continental WinterContact SI delivers confidence in harsh winter conditions while maintaining quieter operation compared to traditional winter tire designs. These winter options fit standard CR-V sizes including 225/65R17 and 215/70R16 configurations.
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+ offers enhanced dry weather handling for drivers seeking sportier performance characteristics during warmer months. Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS combines responsive steering feedback with improved cornering stability that transforms the CR-V’s driving dynamics.
Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 provides year-round performance with summer tire handling characteristics while maintaining adequate wet weather capabilities. Summer tire selections focus on maximizing grip and cornering precision but perform poorly in temperatures below 40°F.
| Season | Brand | Model | Temperature Range | Performance Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Bridgestone | Blizzak WS90 | Below 45°F | Snow/ice traction |
| Winter | Michelin | X-Ice Xi3 | Below 45°F | Braking performance |
| Summer | Michelin | Pilot Sport A/S 3+ | Above 40°F | Dry handling |
| Summer | Continental | ExtremeContact DWS06 | Above 40°F | Cornering precision |
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and maintenance ensure your 2013 Honda CR-V tires deliver optimal performance and safety. We outline the key considerations for mounting new tires and maintaining them throughout their lifespan.
Professional vs DIY Installation
Professional installation provides the most reliable approach for mounting new tires on your 2013 CR-V. Technicians possess specialized equipment for proper mounting, balancing, and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) calibration. Modern CR-V models require precise TPMS programming that professional shops handle with dedicated diagnostic tools.
DIY installation becomes feasible if you own the correct tools including tire irons, hydraulic jacks, and torque wrenches. Knowledge of tire fitting procedures and wheel balancing techniques is essential for safe installation. Improper mounting can lead to uneven wear patterns or safety hazards that compromise vehicle performance.
Equipment requirements for DIY installation include a tire machine or manual tire irons for mounting, wheel balancing weights, and TPMS reset tools. Professional installation eliminates risks associated with improper torque specifications or TPMS sensor damage during the mounting process.
Tire Rotation and Care Guidelines
Tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles promotes even tread wear across all four tires on your CR-V. Front-to-rear rotation patterns work best for the CR-V’s front-wheel-drive configuration, extending overall tire life by 20-30%.
Monthly tire pressure checks maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency for your 2013 CR-V. Standard tire pressure specifications call for approximately 33 psi (2.3 bar) across most factory tire sizes. Underinflated tires reduce fuel economy by up to 3% and accelerate irregular wear patterns.
Regular inspection routines identify early signs of damage including sidewall cracks, tread separation, or embedded debris. Visual checks every two weeks catch potential issues before they compromise safety or require premature tire replacement.
Proper alignment and wheel balancing prevent rapid tire wear and maintain smooth handling characteristics. Misaligned wheels can reduce tire life by 25,000 miles and create vibrations that affect driving comfort. Professional alignment services correct toe, camber, and caster angles to manufacturer specifications.
Tire care extends beyond basic maintenance to include proper storage practices and seasonal considerations. Rotating tires in consistent patterns and maintaining correct inflation pressures optimize the investment in quality tires for your CR-V.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about finding the right tire size for your 2013 Honda CR-V. From understanding the factory specifications to exploring alternative sizing options that can enhance your driving experience.
The key is balancing your priorities – whether that’s maximizing fuel efficiency with the standard 215/70R16 size or upgrading to larger dimensions for improved handling. Remember that proper installation and regular maintenance are just as important as selecting the right tire size.
Your CR-V’s performance safety and comfort all depend on making informed tire choices. We recommend sticking with proven brands and following the maintenance schedule we’ve outlined to get the most from your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard tire size for a 2013 Honda CR-V?
The 2013 Honda CR-V comes with different tire sizes depending on the trim level. Base LX models use 215/70R16 tires, while EX and EX-L models feature 225/65R17 tires. Some select variants may come with 225/60R18 tires. These factory specifications were engineered by Honda to optimize performance, safety, and fuel efficiency for each specific trim level.
How do I read the tire size markings on my CR-V?
Tire size markings like 225/65R17 break down as follows: 225 represents the tire width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. For this example, the sidewall height would be 146.25mm (225 x 0.65).
Can I use alternative tire sizes on my 2013 CR-V?
Yes, popular alternatives include 235/65R17 for enhanced traction and 235/60R18 for sportier handling. More aggressive options like 235/55R19 and 245/60R17 are also available. However, you must ensure compatibility with your wheel specifications and consider how size changes affect vehicle dynamics, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort before making modifications.
What are the best tire brands for a 2013 Honda CR-V?
Recommended all-season tires include Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, Michelin Defender T+H, and Continental TrueContact Tour. For winter conditions, consider Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 or Michelin X-Ice Xi3. Summer performance options include Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+ and Continental ExtremeContact DWS06. Choose based on your driving conditions and performance needs.
How often should I rotate tires on my CR-V?
Rotate your CR-V’s tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to promote even tread wear and maximize tire life. Regular rotation helps maintain balanced handling and prevents premature replacement. Also check tire pressure monthly, inspect for damage regularly, and ensure proper wheel alignment and balancing to optimize performance and safety.
Do larger tires affect fuel efficiency on a CR-V?
Yes, larger tires typically reduce fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance and weight. The 215/70R16 size offers optimal fuel economy for both city and highway driving. While larger tires like 225/65R17 provide better handling, they may slightly decrease fuel efficiency. Consider your priorities between performance and fuel economy when selecting tire sizes.