Tires: Winter Tires 215/65R17 -to - 215/60R17?, blizzak tires, size designation

Question
Hi David,

I have a 2009 Jeep Patriot with stock all seasons 215/65R17.
I found a used (claims only 300km) set of Bridgestone Blizzak 215/60R17. Is this size ok to use or will it affect my vehicle's center of gravity? Also, do you have any tips or tricks to check the used tires to ensure that I am not being had?

As a first time winter tire buyer, your help is much appreciated! I live in New Brunswick and we are expecting a lot of snow this year.

Thank you,

Erin

Answer
Dear Erin,
Thank you for using AllExperts.
Regretfully, the 215/60R17 tires do not have enough load capacity for your Jeep Patriot.  Your original P215/65R17 tires have a 'door placard' air pressure requirement of 35 psi front and rear equating to 1,653 lbs load capacity per tire.  You will note that your original tires have a "load index" at the end of the size designation of '98' whereas the Blizzak tires will only indicate either 95 or 96; not enough.
In terms of 'what to look for' when buying used tires, I would make sure they are in overall good condition with no cuts, punctures, repairs on the interior, and are not too old.  Since you have a Chrysler product, you will note that your owner's manual recommends tire replacement at 6 years.  This may be a good guideline for putting tires on your Jeep.  Attached is a tutorial on how to determine a tire's age.
Hope this helps!
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=11