The 2003 Honda Accord came with several tire size options depending on the trim level. In this comprehensive guide, we will look at the different 2003 Honda Accord tire sizes and wheel options available that year.
The 2003 Honda Accord was offered in multiple body styles including sedan and coupe. It also came with 4-cylinder or V6 engines. The tires and wheels varied across the different trims to match the size and performance capabilities of each model.
Overview of 2003 Honda Accord Trim Levels
Honda offered the 2003 Accord in a range of trim levels, each with their own distinct tire size and wheel options:
4-Cylinder Trims
- DX – Base 4-cylinder sedan
- LX – Mid-level 4-cylinder sedan and coupe
- EX – Top-level 4-cylinder sedan, coupe, and coupe EX Navigation
V6 Trims
- LX – Base V6 coupe and sedan
- EX – Uplevel V6 coupe, sedan, and sedan EX Navigation
The 4-cylinder trims came equipped with either 15″ or 16″ wheels depending on specifications. The V6 trims increased wheel size to 17″ for added performance and handling capabilities.
2003 Honda Accord DX Tire Size
The base DX 4-cylinder sedan came equipped with 15″ wheels and P195/65R15 tires.
- Tire size: P195/65R15
- Wheel size: 15 in.
This standard all-season tire and wheel package provided a smooth, quiet ride and decent handling for the entry-level Accord sedan. The 15″ wheel size helped optimize fuel economy as well.
2003 Honda Accord LX Tire Size
Moving up to the LX 4-cylinder sedan and coupe models, Honda increased tire size slightly to P205/65R15 while keeping the 15″ wheel size.
- Tire size: P205/65R15
- Wheel size: 15 in.
The modestly larger tire size offered a bit more traction and stability compared to the DX, fitting the more well-appointed nature of the LX trim. Fuel economy could still remain strong with the efficient 15″ wheels.
2003 Honda Accord EX Tire Size
On the top EX 4-cylinder sedan, coupe, and coupe EX Navigation trims, Honda upgraded to 16″ wheels and P205/60R16 tires.
- Tire size: P205/60R16
- Wheel size: 16 in.
The increased 16″ wheel diameter and slightly lower profile 60-series tires provided better handling response and cornering grip without compromising ride quality. This upgrade complemented the more powerful engine and sportier nature of the EX models.
2003 Honda Accord LX V6 Tire Size
The LX V6 coupe and sedan models came equipped with 17″ wheels and P215/50R17 tires.
- Tire size: P215/50R17
- Wheel size: 17 in.
The large 17″ wheels and lower profile 50-series tires were critical for the V6 models to handle the added horsepower and torque. The larger contact patch and stiffer sidewalls allowed drivers to take advantage of the strong acceleration and maintain high-speed stability.
2003 Honda Accord EX V6 Tire Size
Like the 4-cylinder EX models, the V6 EX coupe, sedan, and sedan EX Navigation trims also used 17″ wheels with P215/50R17 tires.
- Tire size: P215/50R17
- Wheel size: 17 in.
The V6 EX models came equipped with the largest 17″ wheel and tire combination. This helped generate responsive steering feel and confident handling to match the potent V6 power under the hood. The lower profile tires were essential to connect the chassis and suspension to the road.
Importance of Proper Tire Size
Choosing the manufacturer-recommended 2003 Honda Accord tire size is important for several reasons:
- Maintains proper speedometer accuracy – The wrong size tires will throw off the speedometer calibration leading to incorrect speed readings.
- Preserves proper gearing – Equipping tires that are too tall or short will alter the vehicle’s gearing and final drive ratios.
- Avoids clearance issues – Installing tires that are too wide or require different wheel offsets can cause rubbing and clearance problems.
- Sustains handling and stability – The original tires are designed specifically to work with the chassis, suspension, and steering for balanced handling.
- Optimizes fuel economy – The OE tire sizes are selected to help maximize fuel efficiency for each engine and drivetrain combination.
Tire Size Format Explanation
Honda tire sizes follow the standard tire size format:
P215/50R17
- P – Passenger car tire (vs. LT for light truck)
- 215 – Tire width in millimeters. This example is 215mm.
- 50 – Aspect ratio as a percentage of section width. This tire has a height equal to 50% of its width.
- R – Radial tire construction.
- 17 – Wheel diameter in inches. This tire fits a 17″ wheel.
Choosing the Right Replacement Tire Size
When the time comes to replace your 2003 Honda Accord tires, stick with the same OE tire size specified for your trim level and wheel size. This will ensure optimal fit, performance, and safety. Only go up or down one size at most if necessary.
Significant deviations from the OE tire size can negatively alter the Accord’s handling and cause clearance issues. It also voids the speedometer and odometer accuracy set by the manufacturer.
Refer to the tire size tables above when ordering new tires for your 2003 Accord. And confirm the acceptable alternate sizes in your owner’s manual.
Conclusion
The 2003 Honda Accord came equipped with a range of tire sizes based on trim level and drivetrain configurations. Sizes ranged from P195/65R15 on DX models up to P215/50R17 on V6 EX versions.
Choosing the proper tire size designed specifically for your Accord is crucial for performance, fuel economy, speedometer accuracy, and preventing rub issues. Refer to this guide and your owner’s manual when replacing tires to get the right fit.
