Wondering about the correct 2013 Dodge Dart tire size for your vehicle? Finding the right tires isn’t just about fit—it’s about optimizing your Dart’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.
When it comes to your 2013 Dodge Dart, using the manufacturer-recommended tire size ensures proper handling and accurate speedometer readings. The standard tire size varies depending on your exact trim level, with most models using either 205/55R16 or 225/45R17 tires. Knowing your exact specifications before shopping can save you time and prevent costly mistakes.
Understanding the 2013 Dodge Dart Tire Size Specifications
The 2013 Dodge Dart tire size specifications vary depending on the trim level and wheel package. Each tire size includes three key measurements that determine its fit and performance characteristics. These measurements consist of the width (in millimeters), aspect ratio (percentage of width), and wheel diameter (in inches).
For the base SE model, Dodge equipped 16-inch steel wheels with 205/55R16 tires as standard. The SXT and Rallye trims feature the same 205/55R16 size but with aluminum wheels instead of steel. Moving up to the Limited trim brings 17-inch aluminum wheels with 225/45R17 tires for enhanced handling and a sportier appearance. The GT (previously known as R/T) model comes standard with the larger 225/45R17 tires on unique 17-inch aluminum wheels.
Many Dart owners report that upgrading from the 16-inch to 17-inch wheels provides noticeable improvements in cornering stability. Liam Kohn found that “the difference in grip between the base tires and the 225/45R17 options is immediately apparent when taking curves at speed.”
Reading tire size information correctly ensures you’re getting compatible replacements. The first number (205 or 225) indicates the tire width in millimeters. The second number (55 or 45) represents the aspect ratio, showing the tire’s height as a percentage of its width. The “R” designates radial construction, and the final number (16 or 17) specifies the wheel diameter in inches.
Seasonal considerations affect which tire specifications work best for your Dart. All-season tires come standard on all trims, but performance summer tires were optional on GT models. Winter tires for the Dart typically maintain the same size specifications but use different rubber compounds for cold-weather traction.
Your Dart’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) works with factory-specified tire sizes. Deviating significantly from these specifications might trigger warning lights or affect system accuracy. The recommended tire pressure for most 2013 Dart models is 33 PSI for front tires and 33 PSI for rear tires, though these values should be verified against the sticker located on the driver’s door jamb.
Stock Tire Sizes for Different 2013 Dodge Dart Trims
Each 2013 Dodge Dart trim comes with exact factory tire specifications designed to optimize performance for that particular model. These stock tire sizes vary across the different trim levels, affecting handling characteristics and appearance.
SE and SXT Trim Tire Specifications
The base SE trim of the 2013 Dodge Dart comes equipped with 205/55R16 tires mounted on 16-inch steel wheels. These tires provide a balanced mix of comfort and efficiency for everyday driving situations. The SXT trim upgrades to 225/45R17 tires, offering improved grip and cornering capability while maintaining reasonable comfort for daily commuting. Continental ContiProContact tires are commonly found as original equipment on the SXT trim, delivering reliable all-season performance for most driving conditions.
Rallye and Limited Trim Tire Specifications
Both the Rallye and Limited trims feature identical 225/45R17 tire specifications. These mid-range trims share the same tire dimensions to deliver enhanced handling compared to the base SE model. The 17-inch wheels on these trims come with aluminum construction rather than steel, reducing unsprung weight for improved responsiveness. Continental ContiProContact tires are typically installed as original equipment on these trims, providing good wet and dry traction with reasonable tread life.
GT and Aero Trim Tire Specifications
The performance-oriented GT trim offers the most versatile tire options in the 2013 Dart lineup. GT models feature either 225/45R17 tires or sportier 225/40R18 options depending on the exact package. The fuel-efficient Aero trim comes standard with 225/40R18 tires to complement its aerodynamic enhancements. Yokohama Avid S34NV tires are frequently found as original equipment on the 18-inch wheels of GT and Aero trims. The larger 18-inch wheels provide noticeably improved handling characteristics and a more aggressive stance compared to the smaller wheel options on base trims.
| Trim | Tire Size |
|---|---|
| SE | 205/55R16 |
| SXT | 225/45R17 |
| Rallye | 225/45R17 |
| Limited | 225/45R17 |
| GT | 225/45R17 or 225/40R18 |
| Aero | 225/40R18 |
How to Read Your 2013 Dodge Dart Tire Size
Understanding your Dodge Dart’s tire size notation helps you make informed decisions when replacing tires. The combination of numbers and letters on your tire sidewall contains crucial information about dimensions and capabilities.
Decoding the Tire Size Notation
Tire size markings like 225/45R17 follow a standardized format that reveals exact measurements. The first number (225) indicates the tire width in millimeters from one sidewall to the other. Following the slash, the aspect ratio (45) represents the tire’s sidewall height as a percentage of its width – in this case, the sidewall height is 45% of 225mm. The letter R signifies radial construction, the most common type in modern vehicles. The final number (17) specifies the wheel diameter in inches that the tire fits.
Additional markings often appear after the size, such as 91H. The number (91) represents the load index, indicating the maximum weight capacity of the tire. The letter (H) indicates the speed rating, showing the maximum safe speed for the tire under optimal conditions.
Where to Find Tire Size Information on Your Vehicle
Your 2013 Dodge Dart provides tire size information in three reliable locations. The owner’s manual contains comprehensive details about the original equipment specifications for your exact trim level. A quick check of the driver’s side door jamb reveals a manufacturer’s sticker with tire size, recommended pressure, and load information. The most direct source is examining your current tires – the complete size designation appears prominently on the sidewall of each tire.
Knowing where to locate this information ensures you’ll purchase compatible replacements when needed. Continental ContiProContact tires frequently come as original equipment on 16-inch and 17-inch wheels, while Yokohama Avid S34NV tires are commonly found on models with 18-inch wheels.
Benefits of Maintaining Proper Tire Size
Using the manufacturer-recommended tire size for your 2013 Dodge Dart ensures optimal vehicle performance and safety. Proper tire sizing affects everything from handling to fuel economy, making it a critical maintenance consideration.
Performance and Handling Considerations
Correct tire sizing directly impacts your Dodge Dart’s handling capabilities and road grip. Larger or wider tires increase the contact patch with the road, providing better grip, improved cornering ability, and faster acceleration or braking response. The standard 205/55R16 or 225/45R17 tires on most Dart models are specifically engineered to balance handling dynamics with ride comfort. Incorrect sizing can lead to dangerous rubbing against wheel wells or suspension components, particularly when turning or traveling over bumps. Your Dart’s stability depends on maintaining the proper tire dimensions, as oversized options might look appealing but can compromise the vehicle’s handling characteristics and safety systems.
Fuel Efficiency Impact
Tire size significantly affects your Dodge Dart’s fuel economy through its influence on rolling resistance. Smaller, narrower tires typically improve fuel efficiency by reducing the friction between your tires and the road surface. The mid-sized tire options recommended for the 2013 Dart (205/55R16, 215/50R17, and 235/45R17) represent a carefully calculated balance between performance and efficiency. Switching to larger tires might enhance grip and appearance but often comes with a fuel economy penalty due to increased rolling resistance. Many Dart owners appreciate how the factory-recommended sizes deliver an optimal compromise between responsive handling and reasonable fuel consumption. Maintaining the original tire specifications helps preserve the engineering balance Dodge established for the vehicle’s overall performance characteristics.
Aftermarket Tire Options for the 2013 Dodge Dart
The 2013 Dodge Dart offers several aftermarket tire options beyond the factory-installed equipment. These alternatives provide opportunities to enhance performance, improve seasonal handling, or replace worn original tires with compatible options.
Recommended Upgrade Options
Performance-minded Dart owners frequently upgrade from 17-inch (225/45R17) tires to 18-inch (225/40R18) options for improved handling and aesthetics. Continental ContiProContact tires serve as excellent OE replacements for the 17-inch wheel size, delivering reliable performance and longevity. Yokohama Avid S34NV tires represent a quality choice for 18-inch wheels, offering enhanced grip and responsive steering. Premium tire manufacturers including Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear produce compatible options that match these specifications, giving you multiple paths to upgrade your Dart’s performance characteristics. Upgrading to larger wheels can provide noticeable improvements in cornering ability and overall road feel without sacrificing too much ride comfort.
Winter and All-Season Alternatives
Weather conditions often dictate the need for specialized tires beyond the standard equipment on your Dodge Dart. All-season tires in 225/45R17 and 205/55R16 sizes deliver year-round performance suitable for moderate climates with occasional light snow. Dedicated winter tires dramatically improve traction on snow and ice compared to standard or all-season options, with Bridgestone Blizzak and Michelin X-Ice representing trusted choices for winter driving conditions. Switching between seasonal sets extends the life of both tire sets while optimizing performance for exact weather conditions. The versatility of the Dart’s common tire sizes makes finding seasonal alternatives straightforward at most tire retailers, with many brands offering options that fit the vehicle’s specifications.
Common Tire Issues for the 2013 Dodge Dart
The 2013 Dodge Dart experiences several recurring tire-related problems that owners should monitor. Premature tire wear ranks among the most frequently reported issues, occurring faster than expected due to alignment problems or challenging driving conditions. Uneven tread wear also commonly affects these vehicles, typically resulting from improper tire inflation, misalignment issues, or underlying suspension problems that distribute weight unevenly across the tire surface.
Noise and vibration complaints often emerge from Dart owners, particularly at highway speeds. These symptoms typically stem from improper tire balancing or worn wheel bearings that create uncomfortable driving experiences. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts represent another common frustration, with sensors occasionally needing recalibration or replacement after several years of service.
Sidewall damage occurs more frequently than expected in the Dodge Dart, with owners reporting bulges or cuts from encounters with potholes and road debris. This vulnerability affects all tire sizes, including the standard 205/55R16 tires on SE models and the 225/45R17 tires on SXT, Limited, and Ralleye trims. Performance-oriented R/T models running 225/40R18 tires aren’t immune to these issues either.
Regular maintenance significantly reduces these common problems. Maintaining proper inflation levels at the recommended 33 PSI helps prevent uneven wear patterns and improves overall tire performance. Scheduling wheel alignments every 15,000 miles ensures your Dart’s suspension geometry remains within specifications, particularly important for models equipped with Continental ContiProContact or Yokohama Avid S34NV tires.
Conclusion
Selecting the right tire size for your 2013 Dodge Dart isn’t just about fitting wheels to your vehicle. It’s about optimizing performance safety and fuel efficiency according to your exact trim level.
Whether you’re driving the SE with 205/55R16 tires or the GT with 225/40R18 options maintaining the manufacturer’s recommendations ensures proper handling and accurate readings from your systems.
Remember to check your tire pressure regularly at the recommended 33 PSI and consider seasonal tire changes when necessary. With proper maintenance and the right tire size your Dodge Dart will deliver the driving experience it was engineered to provide while keeping you safe on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard tire sizes for a 2013 Dodge Dart?
The standard tire sizes for most 2013 Dodge Dart models are either 205/55R16 or 225/45R17, depending on the trim level. The base SE model comes with 16-inch steel wheels and 205/55R16 tires, while higher trims like SXT, Rallye, and Limited typically use 225/45R17 tires. Performance-oriented GT and Aero trims may come with 225/40R18 tires.
How do I read the tire size information on my Dodge Dart?
Tire size markings like 225/45R17 contain specific information: 225 is the width in millimeters, 45 is the aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width), R indicates radial construction, and 17 is the wheel diameter in inches. Additional numbers and letters indicate load index and speed rating. This information helps ensure you purchase the correct replacement tires.
Where can I find my Dodge Dart’s recommended tire size?
You can find the recommended tire size in three main locations: the owner’s manual (which lists specifications for all trim levels), the driver’s side door jamb (on the tire information label), and on the sidewall of your current tires. Always verify the size matches your specific trim level before purchasing new tires.
Does tire size affect fuel efficiency in the Dodge Dart?
Yes, tire size impacts fuel efficiency. Smaller tires typically reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. The recommended tire sizes for the 2013 Dodge Dart represent a balance between performance and efficiency. Deviating significantly from factory specifications may negatively affect your vehicle’s fuel consumption and overall performance.
What is the recommended tire pressure for a 2013 Dodge Dart?
The recommended tire pressure for both front and rear tires on a 2013 Dodge Dart is 33 PSI (pounds per square inch). Maintaining proper tire inflation is crucial for optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. The vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) will alert you if pressure falls significantly below this level.
Can I upgrade to different size tires on my Dodge Dart?
Yes, you can upgrade from 17-inch (225/45R17) to 18-inch (225/40R18) tires for improved handling and aesthetics. However, any tire upgrades should maintain a similar overall diameter to ensure proper speedometer readings and vehicle performance. Consult with a tire professional before making significant changes to your tire size.
What tire brands were originally equipped on the 2013 Dodge Dart?
Continental ContiProContact tires were commonly equipped on SXT, Rallye, and Limited trims with 17-inch wheels. Yokohama Avid S34NV tires were typically found on the 18-inch wheels of GT and Aero trims. These OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tires were selected to complement the Dart’s performance characteristics.
Do I need winter tires for my Dodge Dart?
If you live in an area with regular snow and ice, dedicated winter tires like Bridgestone Blizzak or Michelin X-Ice are recommended for improved traction and safety. All-season tires (standard on all trims) are suitable for moderate climates, but they don’t provide the same level of winter performance as specialized winter tires.
What causes premature tire wear on the Dodge Dart?
Premature tire wear on the 2013 Dodge Dart is often caused by improper inflation, misaligned wheels, or suspension issues. Maintaining proper tire pressure (33 PSI), scheduling wheel alignments every 15,000 miles, and rotating tires regularly can help prevent uneven wear and extend tire life.
How does tire size affect the handling of my Dodge Dart?
Tire size significantly impacts handling capabilities. Larger tires (like those on GT and Aero trims) generally provide better traction and cornering ability but may offer a firmer ride. Smaller tires typically provide more comfort but less grip. The factory tire sizes for each trim level were selected to optimize the balance between performance and comfort.
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