How to prevent scratching the Yaris bottom?

[soup1207]

Hi all,

I have a yaris 2009. Recently I found that it's easy to scratch the bottom ,esp. the snowy day. Is there any way to ease that case? Should I change a bigger size tire (so the car could be lift up?) or any other way could do that?

Thanks,

Ricky

[33OH]

Are you on stock suspension?

Yes, larger diameter tires will lift the car. You can also raise the suspension height.

If you are only having issues in the snow with it, perhaps get some larger diameter snow tires for winter.

[Klink10]

wait till the snow melts

[soup1207]

33OH,

Thanks for answering. I am currently using the original 14" tire. Do I have to change the (rim) wheel if I wish to get a larger diameter snow tire?

I don't see any website talk about it.
Is it unsafe if I raise the suspension?

[33OH]

You can put a larger diameter snow tire on easily. It goes on the existing rim. Stock tire meaning a 175/65/14, correct?

By raising the second number (sidewall height %) you can get a taller tire. A 175/70/14 or a 185/65/14 would work nice. Both raise the car by about .5". You can go more drastic if you want, but keep in mind your speedometer will be effected.

Try this tire calculator out: http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

[soup1207]

I see. Thank you very much. I check it out now.

[33OH]

The overall item you are wanting to change is the Diameter. It's safe to go +/- 3%.

[severous01]

even if you go an entire inch bigger (which isnt suggested due to rotating mass, braking forces and other factors) you'll only gain 1/2 inch clearance

if you are having snow issues that are serious enough, i'd suggest getting a beater vehicle. in particular, a jeep. they're dime a dozen and cheap....realiable, tanks, cheap parts replacement, easy to work on.

any way, get a winter vehicle.

[cali yaris]

You can also raise the suspension height.


How do you raise the suspension height on a Yaris?

[33OH]

How do you raise the suspension height on a Yaris?

Either a lift kit, or the little inserts that go in between your springs will help a little.

[Betrivent]

The stock psrings that came with my yaris I'm sure are made for snow.. they give the thing like a REAL 4x4 stance.

I still have them if anybody wants them. They're not in the best shape (rusty) but they were snow springs, what can ya expect.

Observe..

[WeeYari]

Approach inclined driveways, parking lots entrances, and big speed bumps at an angle. Do not approach straight on as you will drag the nose. When lowered, you have to be even more aware of rapid changes in grade.

[WeeYari]

@ Betrivent

What's your tire size? Those sidewalls look a little short to be OEM spec.

[Betrivent]

They're stock 14s.. I think they're 185/65/14

[WeeYari]

Hmmm. You definitely got some wicked ride height happening with your springs. Would be interested to see what you measure from ground to high point in wheel arches vs me with my 175/65/14s.

[Betrivent]

I take it back, it's actually 175/65/14. Checked today

[brik456]

Just build an aluminum skid plate like I did lol

[why?]

It isn't a real big deal if you are just hitting snow,that is going to happen on almost any car. Snow isn't really going to do any damage, and it isn't going to severely scratch anything.

Although I've heard boston way is really bad today.

[MUSKOKA800]

175 70 14 winter tires will bring your ride height up to the same as 185 60 15 providing a half inch increase in clearance. That said, I would not worry about snow scratching your belly, speed bumps yes, but not snow. It will do no harm.