Tires: Replacement Tires, 2002 toyota camry, b f goodrich

Question
I am presently replacing the original tires, Continental 205/65 R15, on my 2002 Toyota Camry.  These tires lasted less than 30,000 miles.  I checked Costco and they suggested I use a B.F. Goodrich Premium Touring tire size 215/65 R15.  They said this is an optional size for this car and I will get better handling, ride and traction.  It has a 70,000 mile warranty.  The price difference in the sizes is minimal.  Should I go with the larger size and is it OK on this auto.  I appreciate any help.  Comparing tires is very difficult.  Thanks.

Mike

Answer
Mike,

A P215/65R15 was not the optional size.  However, most vehicle manufacturers provide a lot room in the fenderwell to cover such things as chains, so this size will probably fit.  

But the question is why change?  P205/65R15's came on a lot of vehicles and there ought to be a lot of options, both now and in the future.  

In addition to the wrong comment about the "optional size", the guy you talked to steered you wrong on the handling vs ride issue.  These are 2 things that are oppossing ends of the spectrum - improve one, hurt the other.  If handling and dry traction is more what you want, why not buy an H rated tire?  

However, you can get some improvement just by increasing the inflation pressure a bit.  I like to use 3 to 5 psi over the placard.

Hope this helps.