The 2006 Honda Civic comes with three different tire sizes depending on the trim level and options selected. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the various tire and wheel size combinations available for the 2006 Civic.
Overview Of 2006 Honda Civic Tire Sizes
The 2006 Honda Civic was available in coupe, sedan, and hybrid body styles. Across all styles, there were three main tire sizes offered:
- P195/65R15 – Standard on DX and Hybrid models
- P205/55HR16 – Optional on LX and EX models
- P215/45R17 – Optional on EX models
Along with the tire sizes, there were three different wheel sizes ranging from 15 to 17 inches in diameter. Understanding the correct tire size and wheel combination for your Civic is important for proper fitment and safe operation.
2006 Civic Trim Levels And Tire/Wheel Specs
Honda offered the 2006 Civic in a variety of trim levels, each with their own unique tire and wheel specifications. Here is a detailed breakdown of each trim and the associated factory tire and wheel size:
DX and Hybrid Models
The base DX trim level, offered in both coupe and sedan body styles, came equipped with 15-inch steel wheels and P195/65R15 all-season tires. This was also the tire and wheel size equipped on the Civic Hybrid sedan.
- Tire Size: P195/65R15
- Wheel Size: 15 x 6 inches
LX Models
On the mid-range LX coupe and sedan, 16-inch alloy wheels were standard along with P205/55HR16 all-season tires. This provided a modest upgrade in both style and performance over the DX models.
- Tire Size: P205/55HR16
- Wheel Size: 16 x 6.5 inches
EX Models
The top-of-the-line EX coupe and sedan came standard with 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/55HR16 tires like the LX. However, the EX had the option of upgrading to 17-inch alloy wheels paired with lower-profile P215/45R17 all-season tires.
- Standard Tire Size: P205/55HR16
- Optional Tire Size: P215/45R17
- Standard Wheel Size: 16 x 6.5 inches
- Optional Wheel Size: 17 x 7.0 inches
Recommended Tire Pressures For 2006 Civic
Along with understanding the correct tire size and wheel fitment, it’s also important to inflate your 2006 Civic’s tires to the proper air pressure. Here are the recommended cold tire inflation pressures from Honda:
- P195/65R15 – 32 psi
- P205/55HR16 – 32 psi
- P215/45R17 – 35 psi
Maintaining the correct pressure will optimize ride comfort, handling, tread life, and fuel economy. Tire pressures should be checked monthly with an accurate gauge.
Can You Change Tire Sizes On A 2006 Civic?
The 2006 Civic was engineered around the original tire sizes, so changes can affect ride height, handling, speedometer accuracy, and clearances. However, with care, it is possible to upgrade to larger diameters while maintaining close to the original overall diameter.
Some popular plus sizing options for the 2006 Civic include:
- 16-inch wheels with 205/50R16 tires
- 17-inch wheels with 215/45R17 tires
- 18-inch wheels with 225/40R18 tires
The overall diameters are within 3% of the original sizes, helping minimize negative impacts while allowing the fitment of larger wheels and lower-profile tires.
Winter Tire Options For The 2006 Civic
For driving in cold weather and snow, the 2006 Honda Civic has several dedicated winter tire options that can enhance traction and handling. Here are some top tires to consider:
Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
- Key Sizes: P185/65R15, P195/60R15, P205/55R16
- Severe snow-rated winter tire with optimized tread design
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
- Key Sizes: 185/65R15, 195/60R15, 205/55R16
- Advanced compound and tread siping for wet and icy conditions
Continental VikingContact 7
- Key Sizes: 185/65R15, 195/65R15, 205/60R16
- Hybrid winter tire with rim protector and mileage warranty
Be sure to mount winter tires on separate wheels so you can easily change them for the seasons. Focus on speed rating, load index, and size compatibility.
What Size Wheels Does A 2006 Honda Civic Have?
The 2006 Honda Civic came with three factory wheel sizes depending on the model and options selected. The most common sizes were 15-inch steel wheels on the DX and Hybrid trims, 16-inch alloy wheels on LX and EX models, and optional 17-inch alloy wheels on the EX.
The 15-inch wheel has a diameter of 15 inches and a width of 6 inches. The 16-inch wheel is 16 x 6.5 inches, while the 17-inch optional wheel is 17 x 7 inches. Always check your owner’s manual or door jamb sticker to confirm the correct OEM wheel size for your specific Civic.
What Size Tires Come On A 2006 Civic 17?
The 2006 Honda Civic EX models that were equipped with the 17-inch alloy wheel option came with 215/45R17 size tires from the factory. The 17-inch tire and wheel combo was an upgrade over the standard 16-inch wheel and 205/55R16 tire found on the EX.
The 215/45R17 tire has a section width of 215 mm, an aspect ratio of 45%, and a 17-inch wheel diameter. This lower profile 17-inch tire gives the Civic EX a sportier stance and improved handling over the standard 16-inch tire size.
Is R17 A Tire Size?
Yes, R17 is a common tire size designation. The “R” stands for radial, and the “17” indicates the wheel diameter the tire is designed to fit in inches. So an R17 tire is engineered to mount on a 17-inch diameter wheel.
The 215/45R17 is an example of a common size, meaning the tire has a width of 215mm, an aspect ratio of 45%, and will mount on a 17-inch wheel. Knowing your vehicle’s wheel diameter is key to selecting the proper replacement R17 tire size.
Are 16 And 17 Tires The Same?
No, 16-inch and 17-inch tires are different sizes and are not interchangeable. The tire’s sidewall markings indicate the wheel diameter the tire is engineered to fit. A 16-inch tire like 205/55R16 is made to fit a 16-inch wheel, while a 17-inch tire fits a 17-inch wheel.
Mounting a 16-inch tire on a 17-inch wheel or vice versa will result in poor fit with potential safety issues. Always match replacement tires to the original OEM tire diameter specified for your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
Can I Replace R16 With R17?
You cannot directly replace an R16 size tire with an R17 tire on the same wheels, since they are diameters. However, many vehicles that originally came with R16 tires can be upgraded to fit larger R17 tires by switching to 17-inch diameter wheels.
For example, a Honda Civic LX with 205/55R16 tires can be upgraded to 215/45R17 tires if 17-inch wheels are also installed. Ensure the new tires maintain a close overall diameter and check clearances.
FAQs about 2006 Civic Tires
What Is The Original Equipment Tire Size For My 2006 Civic?
This depends on your trim level – see the tire size by trim charts earlier in this article.
How Do I Determine The Right Replacement Tire Size?
Always replace your Civic’s tires with the same size, load index, and speed rating as the original. Check your door jamb sticker or owner’s manual.
Should I Rotate The Tires On My 2006 Honda Civic?
Yes, Honda recommends rotating your Civic’s tires every 7,500 miles to maximize even treadwear. Follow a front-to-back rotation pattern.
How Long Should Tires Last On A 2006 Honda Civic?
Tread life is heavily dependent on driving habits, climate, and road conditions. Most owners report getting 40,000 to 60,000 miles out of a set with proper rotations and alignment.
How Much Air Pressure Should My Civic’s Tires Have?
Inflate tires to the pressures listed earlier in this article for your specific tire size. Use an accurate gauge and check monthly.
Conclusion
The 2006 Honda Civic was equipped from the factory with three tire sizes ranging from P195/65R15 up to P215/45R17 based on the trim and options. Understanding the correct specifications for your Civic’s model and year is crucial when it comes time for tire replacement. Always stick with the same size, speed, and load rating to ensure proper fit, handling, and safety. With routine maintenance and rotations, Civic owners can expect a long service life out of quality replacement tires.
Also Read:
- What Size Tire Does A 2007 Honda Civic Have?
- What Size Tires Does A 2009 Honda Civic Have?
- What Size Tire Does A 2010 Honda Civic Have?
- What Size Tires Does A 2014 Honda Civic Take?
