Tires: tires, size designation, 2006 dodge stratus

Question
can i put 195 55 15's in place of 205 60 15's on a 2006 dodge stratus

Answer
Dear Garrett,
Thank you for using AllExperts.
No, the  195/55R15 size does not offer enough load capacity for your Stratus.  If you look on the sidewall of your (P)205/60R15, at the end of the size designation you should see the numbers '90' with a letter after them such as 'S' or 'T.'  The '90' is the "load index" and corresponds to the tire's maximum load which is 1,301 lbs. per tire at 35 psi (also engraved on your tire's sidewall).  A (P)195/55R15 would only carry 1,102 lbs per tire or 1,201 lbs. per tire (there are at least two versions on the market)...NOT enough load capacity, and it could present a safety hazard to you.
DT