Tires: replacing the rediculous low profile tires..., 17 inch rims, low profile tires

Question
Hi Barry,

I bought a 99 Toyota Camry LE last month from a dealer auction. It came with brand new low profile tires, but of course with all my freeway driving, I got a flat. I have always thought the tires looked and felt ridiculous on such a standard sedan, and so I would like to replace all 4 tires tomorrow.

They are currently at 205/40zR17/80w. How do I get more standard tires without investing in new rims as well? Is it rare to find a standard tire that will accommodate 17 inch rims?

I hate to give up brand new Goodwrench tires, but I have to admit I didn't know the tire was flat until I was already on the freeway since everyday feels like a flat tire day...

Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Kristina

Answer
Kristina,

A 1999 Toyota Camry LE came with P205/65R15's 92H, so to start with, the tires are too small for the vehicle.

In a sense, you won't be able to get a "standard" tire to fit on 17" rims and still be able to fit under the fenderwells.

I don't know if this will fit, but Tire Rack says to use 215/45R17 91H's.  I will add that these tires are Extra Load and require more pressure, so you will want to use 37 psi, or perhaps a few psi more to improve the resistance to rim impact damage.