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Noob question about tires

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Old May 31, 2008 | 12:05 AM
  #1  
vtecluder617's Avatar
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 40
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Default Noob question about tires

Hey guys,
I'm looking to buy some new tires for my ride, but I want to know if I have choices when it comes to sizes (like width for example).
I have 15" rims on it and the tire size says 195/60/r15. I know that I need tires that are r15, but would it make a difference if i got tires that were, for example, 190/50/r15? or larger? Or is the size of the tires i have now my only option. Sorry for the noob question but im clueless when it comes to tires. any input would be great
 
Old May 31, 2008 | 08:11 AM
  #2  
TexasHonda's Avatar
Super Moderator : And A Texan
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 9,652
From: Katy, TX
Default RE: Noob question about tires

Car has tire size options in the owners manual and on the door. Changing to different profiles and diameters solely for "looks" is not recommended. However, no one will arrest you if you do this. Some of the negatives are 1) incorrect speedometer, 2) poorer ride and handling qualities, 3) tire may contact wheel well, 4) alignment may impacted.

good luck
 
Old May 31, 2008 | 09:23 AM
  #3  
faosh's Avatar
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 48
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Default RE: Noob question about tires

The diameter of the new tire should be within 3% of the original. The recommended tire pressure might also change. I've heard of people driving with older psi having uneven tire wear.
 
Old Jun 2, 2008 | 10:27 AM
  #4  
JimBlake's Avatar
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Joined: May 2006
Posts: 18,398
From: Wisconsin
Default RE: Noob question about tires

Places like TireRack have specs on the website. Look at the overall tread diameter for your stock 195/60-15 tires. Then if you want to change, maybe 205/55-15 will be wider but the lower profile (55) givesalmost the sameoutside diameter.

For a more noticable difference you'll have to get 16" wheels. That's usually called a "plus-1" setup.
 
Old Jun 2, 2008 | 10:51 AM
  #5  
falkore24's Avatar
Been Around A Long Time Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 6,213
From: Wayne, NJ
Default RE: Noob question about tires

Use the calculators that I posted in the wheel and tire sticky to see the effects of offsets and tire size compared to stock.
 
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