QuestionQUESTION: Hello, I currently have the 225/50R16 tires on my vehicle, but just purchased 16 inch universal GM wheels mounted with 225/60R16 tires. I've had a lot of trouble with the lower profile tires and would really like to change to the ones I just purchased. My question is what effect it will have on my vehicle and even if it is possible I can use them? I have the SE2 touring package model. Thanks for any assistance.
ANSWER: Anne,
There may be a problem with rubbing. If you wanted to go to a higher profile, the correct tire size would have been 205/60R16. With the 225/60R16 not only is your odometer and speedometer reading low by 7% (you will actually be going 64 mph when the speedo says 60), but this may affect ABS and related systems that use ground speed for reference. You will have to ask GM if there is a problem here (but my best guess is that there isn't an issue with the electronics.)
But the differences in tires - meaning make and model - are going to have more affect than the size change. So while handling, ride, traction, etc. may be affected, this is more to the differences between tires and not the size itself.
So have someone check the fitment for clearance. Just so you know, the worst case is with the steering wheel fully turned and the suspension fully compressed (which is hard to do).
But it would be better to go with the 205/60R16 if you can manage it. There will not be clearance issues with that size.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Can the 205/60R16 tires be mounted on the rims with the 225/60R16 tires on them currently? Thank you for your help.
AnswerAnne,
Probably, but I can't be sure since you didn't specify the rim width. A 205/60R16 has an allowable rim width range of 5½" to7½", while a 225/60R16 has an allowable rim width of of 6" to 8".
It is likely that the rim is stamped somewhere with the width, but it might be in a code that looks like this: 16 X 7JJ - with the "7" being the rim width in inches.
