noob question about stock tires

[xCookiE]

hey guys
well im looking to get a set of winter tires soon
im planning to use the stock steels but im not sure whats my size limit
i think its currently in 195/65/14?
anyways im wondering if 185/70/14s would fit?

much thanks,
Rob

[cali yaris]

Don't know much about "winter tires" here in California. What would your reasoning be to go down a size in width? If 195's fit, go for it.

[xCookiE]

reason is someone is letting go a set of new winter tires for cheap.. but the width is smaller..
i guess if its for winter.. wider the better right?

[churp]

Most people take the wide tires off in winter....claim they don't want to go toboganning!! :wink: I definately think the narrower work best for steering, but as far as starting/stopping it all depends if its snow/ice/slush/mud on which width you prefer. Sort of arguing which oil to use....everyones right for their own vehicle!

[kimona]

185/70/14's (24.3") would appear to be much taller than OEM 14's, which are 175/65/14 (23").

But, let's look at it this way:

OEM 15's are 185/60/15's (23.7"). So, 185/70/14's are only about 2% taller (24.3") than OEM 15's, so you should be fine.

I'd definitely install 185/70/14's for the winter if you can them cheap; they'll fit no problem. And, don't run wide tires in the winter.

[xCookiE]

awesome! thanks guys

[JosephDoc]

Yes, it it will fit.
For Winter tires, it will be safer to go narrower and lower on snow.

[eTiMaGo]

narrow tires will help in snow, yes, as they will dig in better.

For reference, pay attention to the wheels used by rallye cars in snow/ice stages, so so narrow they're ridiculous :tongue:

[Meteorite Man]

Plus it'll be easier to put your chains on....:wink: