Can Oversize Tires Damage a Transmission?

A car's transmission connects your engine to your wheels. If the transmission is overwhelmed and damaged due to oversize tires, the wheels will not receive the proper output from your engine, note experts at HandymanUSA.

Manufacturer Standard

  • Bowles Automotive in Mooresville, North Carolina, advises keeping the size tires originally installed on the vehicle, as you will get the best performance by conforming to manufacturing standards. However, if the power of oversize tires is required, such as in inclement weather or a rough terrain, you should be able to ride on oversize tires safely.

    The right size tire for the right size car.
    The right size tire for the right size car.

Oversize Affects

  • With oversize tires, you will not be able to drive as fast, mileage may be lower and you will see more wear on the transmission and gears due to the extra weight. However, if oversize tires are used sparingly, such as seasonally, these changes should be non-damaging.

    You will not go as far, nor as fast, on oversize tires.
    You will not go as far, nor as fast, on oversize tires.

Slight Size Changes

  • CarsDirect reports that you can use oversize tires with little difficulty if it's a size or two higher than normal. If tires any larger than that are used without first modifying the vehicle, the transmission is more likely to break down.

    If the transmssion goes, your car is in major trouble.
    If the transmssion goes, your car is in major trouble.