Are you trying to figure out the correct 2008 Honda Accord tire size for your vehicle? Understanding the right specifications can save you money and ensure optimal performance on the road.
The 2008 Honda Accord came with different tire size options depending on the trim level and wheel package. Whether you’re replacing worn tires or upgrading to something new, knowing your exact Accord’s tire requirements is essential for maintaining proper handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Let’s explore everything you need to know about finding the perfect tires for your 2008 Accord.
Understanding 2008 Honda Accord Tire Specifications
The 2008 Honda Accord tire specifications vary based on trim level and wheel package options. Each tire size configuration delivers exact performance characteristics customized to the vehicle’s engineering requirements. Decoding these specifications helps you make informed decisions when purchasing replacement tires.
OEM Tire Sizes by Trim Level
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tire sizes for the 2008 Honda Accord are determined by the trim level:
| Trim Level | Standard Tire Size | Optional Tire Size |
|---|---|---|
| LX Sedan | P215/60R16 94H | – |
| LX-P Sedan | P215/60R16 94H | – |
| EX Sedan | P215/60R16 94H | P225/50R17 93V |
| EX-L Sedan | P225/50R17 93V | – |
| LX Coupe | P225/50R17 93V | – |
| EX Coupe | P225/50R17 93V | – |
| EX-L Coupe | P235/45R18 94V | – |
“I replaced my EX-L Sedan tires last winter,” shares Liam Kohn, “and learned that getting the exact P225/50R17 93V specification made a noticeable difference in handling compared to when I previously used the wrong size.”
Decoding Tire Size Markings
Tire size markings contain valuable information about dimensions and performance capabilities:
- P: Passenger vehicle tire type
- 215/225/235: Section width in millimeters
- 45/50/60: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width)
- R: Radial construction
- 16/17/18: Wheel diameter in inches
- 93/94: Load index (weight capacity)
- H/V: Speed rating (H=130mph, V=149mph)
Understanding these markings ensures compatibility with your Accord’s exact requirements. Many customers report that choosing tires with incorrect specifications leads to compromised handling and premature wear.
Additional Tire Specifications
Beyond size markings, several other specifications affect your 2008 Accord’s performance:
- Recommended PSI: 32 front, 32 rear (check driver’s door jamb for exact specifications)
- Load capacity: Approximately 1,477-1,565 lbs per tire (varies by size)
- Tread depth: New tires typically have 10/32″ to 11/32″ tread depth
- Rotation pattern: Forward cross for front-wheel drive configuration
These specifications ensure optimal contact with the road surface, maximizing traction and handling characteristics. Following these guidelines extends tire life and maintains the engineered driving dynamics of your Accord.
OEM Tire Sizes for Different 2008 Honda Accord Trims
The 2008 Honda Accord comes with exact tire sizes designated by the manufacturer for each trim level and body style. These factory-installed tire specifications ensure optimal performance and safety for your vehicle based on its design characteristics.
LX and LX-P Sedan Tire Size
Both LX and LX-P Sedan models feature 215/60R16 tires as their standard OEM size. These tires mount on 16-inch rims, providing a comfortable ride quality with adequate sidewall height for daily driving conditions. The modest 16-inch wheel diameter on these base models contributes to better ride comfort over rough roads while maintaining fuel efficiency.
EX and EX-L Sedan Tire Size
EX and EX-L Sedan trims upgrade to 225/50R17 tires paired with 17-inch rims. These slightly wider tires with a lower profile ratio deliver improved handling response compared to the base models. The larger 17-inch wheels enhance the visual appeal of these mid-range trims while striking a balance between comfort and sportier performance characteristics.
Coupe Model Tire Sizes
Coupe versions of the 2008 Accord feature different tire specifications based on their performance targets. LX Coupe models come equipped with 225/50R17 tires, matching the size found on EX and EX-L sedans. EX and EX-L Coupe variants also use the same 225/50R17 tire size mounted on 17-inch wheels.
Performance-oriented EX-L V6 Coupe models receive an upgrade to 235/45R18 tires with 18-inch rims. These wider tires with an even lower profile ratio significantly enhance cornering capability and provide the sportier aesthetic expected from the top-tier coupe model.
| Trim/Model | Tire Size | Rim Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| LX Sedan | 215/60R16 | 16 inches |
| LX-P Sedan | 215/60R16 | 16 inches |
| EX Sedan | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| EX-L Sedan | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| LX Coupe | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| EX Coupe | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| EX-L Coupe | 225/50R17 | 17 inches |
| EX-L V6 Coupe | 235/45R18 | 18 inches |
Recommended Replacement Tire Options
Selecting the right replacement tires for your 2008 Honda Accord means matching the original tire size for your exact trim level. Your Accord’s factory tire size can be found on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, in your owner’s manual, or on the sidewall of your current tires.
All-Season Tire Recommendations
All-season tires offer balanced performance for 2008 Accord owners who drive in varied weather conditions. These versatile options provide reliable grip on dry and wet roads while handling light snow conditions adequately. For the LX and LX-P Sedan trims with 215/60R16 tires, all-season options deliver comfort and year-round usability. EX trim owners with 225/50R17 tires benefit from all-season tires that combine longevity with responsive handling. Popular choices include the Michelin Defender T+H, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, and Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack—all engineered to provide a quiet ride and consistent performance throughout multiple seasons.
Performance Tire Choices
Performance tires elevate your 2008 Accord’s handling capabilities, particularly beneficial for Coupe models and sportier trims. These tires feature specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns that enhance cornering grip, braking response, and overall road feel. Owners of EX-L V6 coupes with 235/45R18 tires or those with aftermarket 19-inch wheels using 235/40ZR19 sizes gain important handling improvements with performance-oriented options. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4, Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06, and Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R deliver superior traction and responsiveness compared to standard all-season alternatives. Performance tires typically trade some ride comfort and longevity for enhanced driving dynamics, making them ideal for enthusiasts who value precise handling over maximum tread life.
How to Read Your Honda Accord Tire Size Information
Tire size markings contain crucial information about your 2008 Honda Accord’s tires that affect performance, handling, and safety. Each number and letter in the tire code represents exact dimensions and characteristics designed for your vehicle.
Taking a common 2008 Accord tire size like 225/50R17 as an example:
- 225 represents the tire width in millimeters measured from sidewall to sidewall
- 50 indicates the aspect ratio, showing the sidewall height is 50% of the tire’s width
- R signifies radial construction, the standard design for modern passenger vehicles
- 17 specifies the wheel diameter in inches that the tire is designed to fit
You’ll find this information printed on the sidewall of each tire. The tire size code is typically preceded by a “P” (for passenger vehicle) or no letter at all for standard touring tires on most Accord models.
Additional markings on your tire sidewall include:
- Load index: A numerical value indicating how much weight each tire can safely carry
- Speed rating: A letter indicating the maximum sustained speed capability (H is common for Accords, meaning up to 130 mph)
- Treadwear rating: A three-digit number showing the tire’s expected longevity compared to a reference tire
- Traction and temperature grades: Letters rating the tire’s grip on wet surfaces and heat resistance
Matching these specifications exactly when replacing tires ensures your Accord maintains its engineered handling characteristics and doesn’t trigger issues with the vehicle’s systems. The driver’s side door jamb sticker also displays the factory-recommended tire specifications for quick reference.
Benefits of Proper Tire Sizing for Your 2008 Accord
Correct tire sizing directly impacts your 2008 Honda Accord’s overall performance and safety. Using manufacturer-recommended tire sizes ensures your vehicle handles as originally designed, providing optimal traction, braking response, and stability in various driving conditions.
Your speedometer and odometer maintain accuracy only when your Accord runs on properly sized tires. The original calibration depends on exact wheel rotation measurements that change with incorrectly sized tires, potentially causing speed and distance reading errors.
Ride comfort balances perfectly with performance when you use the right tire dimensions. The 2008 Accord was engineered with exact tire sizes in mind – 215/60R16 for LX and LX-P sedans, 225/50R17 for EX and EX-L sedans, and 235/45R18 for the sportier EX-L V6 coupe models. Deviating from these specifications often creates an unnecessarily harsh or excessively soft ride quality.
Fuel efficiency stays optimized with proper tire sizing. Correctly sized tires maintain the intended rolling resistance, helping your Accord achieve its designed fuel economy targets. Oversized or undersized tires create additional resistance that forces your engine to work harder, consuming more fuel.
Premature tire wear becomes much less likely when using manufacturer-recommended sizes. Improper sizing leads to uneven tread wear patterns and puts extra strain on suspension components, resulting in more frequent and costly replacements.
Adequate clearance between tires and vehicle components exists only with correctly sized tires. The engineering team at Honda specifically selected tire dimensions for the 2008 Accord that prevent rubbing against fenders, suspension parts, or brake components during normal driving and turning maneuvers.
Common Tire Size Upgrades and Modifications
Many 2008 Honda Accord owners upgrade from standard 16-inch or 17-inch wheels to larger 18-inch or 19-inch sizes for enhanced aesthetics and performance. These upgrades transform both the appearance and handling characteristics of your Accord. Popular larger sizes include 235/35R19, 235/40R19, and 245/35R19, which are commonly used as aftermarket modifications across various Accord trims.
Low-profile 19-inch tires deliver a sportier look and more responsive handling compared to factory options. Upgrading to sizes like 235/35R19 or 245/35R19 improves cornering stability and provides a more aggressive stance, though ride comfort may decrease on rougher roads. The reduced sidewall height transfers more road feedback to the cabin but rewards drivers with sharper steering response.
Stock sizes such as 225/50R17 and 215/60R16 offer an excellent balance between comfort and performance for daily driving. These OEM specifications provide predictable handling and sufficient cushioning against road imperfections. Larger aftermarket sizes can noticeably improve braking distances and cornering grip when paired with appropriate wheels, making them particularly appealing for enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving.
Maintaining an overall diameter close to original specifications remains critical when upgrading tire sizes. Important deviations from factory diameter can cause speedometer inaccuracies, affect ABS system functionality, and potentially create clearance issues with suspension components. The most successful tire upgrades stay within 3% of the original rolling diameter to preserve proper vehicle dynamics while achieving the desired performance enhancements.
| Upgrade Path | Stock Size | Common Upgrade | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan LX/LX-P | 215/60R16 | 225/50R17 | Improved handling, modern look | Slightly firmer ride |
| Sedan/Coupe EX | 225/50R17 | 235/45R18 | Enhanced cornering, sportier appearance | Reduced sidewall protection |
| Performance-oriented | 235/45R18 | 235/35R19 or 245/35R19 | Maximum grip, aggressive styling | Compromised ride comfort, higher cost |
Maintaining Optimal Tire Performance
Proper tire maintenance significantly extends the life of your 2008 Honda Accord tires while improving safety and performance. Regular inspection of your tires helps identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, which can be found on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, ensures even tread wear and optimal fuel efficiency.
Tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles prevents uneven wear patterns that commonly develop due to the Accord’s front-wheel-drive configuration. Front tires typically wear faster than rear tires because they handle both steering and most of the braking force. Following a consistent rotation schedule helps each tire wear evenly, maximizing their usable lifespan.
Wheel alignment checks are essential after hitting potholes or curbs in your Accord. Misaligned wheels cause uneven and premature tire wear, particularly on the outer edges. Signs of alignment issues include your vehicle pulling to one side or a vibrating steering wheel at highway speeds.
Seasonal tire considerations matter for 2008 Accord owners in variable climates. All-season tires like the Michelin Defender T+H work well in moderate conditions, but dedicated winter tires provide superior traction when temperatures drop below 45°F. Performance-oriented trims with 235/45R18 tires benefit from switching to winter-exact options during cold months.
Tread depth monitoring using the penny test helps determine when replacement is necessary. Insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down – if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tires have less than 2/32″ of tread remaining and need immediate replacement. Most new tires for the Accord start with approximately 10/32″ of tread depth.
Proper tire storage preserves the integrity of seasonal sets when not in use. Store your off-season Accord tires in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and ozone-producing equipment. Stacking tires horizontally or hanging them prevents deformation that affects performance when reinstalled.
Balancing your wheels eliminates vibration issues that develop over time. Unbalanced wheels cause uneven tire wear and create uncomfortable driving experiences, particularly noticeable at highway speeds in the 2008 Accord. Professional tire balancing every 15,000 miles or when installing new tires ensures smooth operation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size for your 2008 Honda Accord isn’t just about fitting rubber to rims—it’s about preserving your vehicle’s performance legacy. From the comfortable 215/60R16 tires on LX models to the sporty 235/45R18 options on V6 Coupes your tire choice directly impacts handling safety and fuel efficiency.
Whether you’re sticking with OEM specifications or considering aftermarket upgrades remember that proper maintenance is equally important. Regular rotations correct pressure and timely replacements will extend tire life and optimize your driving experience.
By understanding your Accord’s exact tire requirements you’ll make informed decisions that balance comfort performance and safety ensuring your 2008 Honda continues to deliver the reliable driving experience it was engineered to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the OEM tire sizes for a 2008 Honda Accord?
The 2008 Honda Accord comes with different tire sizes depending on the trim level. LX and LX-P Sedan models use 215/60R16 tires on 16-inch rims. EX and EX-L Sedan trims have 225/50R17 tires on 17-inch rims. LX Coupe models use 225/50R17 tires, while the EX-L V6 Coupe is equipped with 235/45R18 tires on 18-inch rims for enhanced cornering and sportiness.
Where can I find my Accord’s recommended tire size?
You can find your 2008 Honda Accord’s recommended tire size in three places: on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, in your vehicle owner’s manual, or on the sidewall of your current tires. The door jamb sticker is the most reliable source as it contains the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific trim level.
How do I read tire size markings like 225/50R17?
In the tire size 225/50R17, each number has a specific meaning: 225 represents the tire width in millimeters, 50 is the aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width), R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. Additional markings include load index, speed rating, and treadwear indicators.
What are the best all-season tires for a 2008 Accord?
Recommended all-season tires for the 2008 Honda Accord include the Michelin Defender T+H and Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. These provide reliable grip in varied weather conditions while maintaining ride comfort. They offer good tread life and balanced performance for daily driving in most climate conditions.
What performance tires work best for Accord Coupes?
For sportier 2008 Accord trims and Coupe models, performance tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 and Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 are excellent choices. These tires enhance handling and responsiveness with improved cornering grip and stability. They’re ideal for drivers who prioritize sporty performance, though they may sacrifice some ride comfort.
Can I upgrade to larger tire sizes on my 2008 Accord?
Yes, many owners upgrade to larger wheels and tires, with popular aftermarket sizes including 235/35R19, 235/40R19, and 245/35R19. When upgrading, it’s crucial to maintain an overall diameter close to original specifications to avoid speedometer inaccuracies and clearance issues. Larger sizes can improve cornering stability but may compromise ride comfort.
How does tire size affect my Accord’s performance?
Proper tire sizing directly impacts your Accord’s performance and safety. Correct sizing ensures optimal traction, braking response, stability, and accurate speedometer readings. It also maintains ride comfort, fuel efficiency, and reduces premature tire wear. Using manufacturer-recommended sizes preserves the vehicle’s engineered driving dynamics.
How often should I rotate tires on my 2008 Accord?
You should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to prevent uneven wear. Regular rotation is essential for extending tire life and maintaining balanced handling. The typical rotation pattern for the front-wheel-drive Accord involves moving the front tires to the rear in their same left/right position and cross-switching the rear tires to the front.
What is the recommended tire pressure for a 2008 Accord?
The recommended tire pressure for most 2008 Honda Accord models is typically between 30-32 PSI (pounds per square inch). The exact specification can be found on the driver’s side door jamb sticker. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal fuel economy, handling, and tire longevity.
Do I need winter tires for my 2008 Accord?
If you live in an area with regular snowfall or temperatures consistently below 45°F (7°C), dedicated winter tires are highly recommended for your 2008 Accord. Winter tires provide significantly improved traction on snow and ice compared to all-season tires, enhancing safety during cold weather driving conditions.
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