MDS_WRX

iTrader: (1)

The missus' car needs some new tyres and what's on there at the moment are 215/50 R17's. I have some 215/45 R17's lying around, but can these go on or will the different profile size be a problem? If they can go on, I assume that all 4 will have to be the same profile as well?

Cheers

Petem95

You should always run the same profile as the other tyre on that end of the car obviously, but front to rear dont need to be the same - for example I've got 255-30-18 on the back and 235-35-18 on the fronts (different wheel width's too obviously).

Remember you're speedo might be out as a result if you run different profiles.

alcazar

iTrader: (2)

Even a small difference in rolling circumference will knacker your diffs.

bgood

iTrader: (2)

Shouldn't be a problem on his 3 series beemer though

bgood

iTrader: (2)

To the OP this link will tell you how much of a difference there is and if it's within limits

http://www.etyres.co.uk/tyre-size-calculator.htm

MDS_WRX

iTrader: (1)

Thanks, that show that there will be a difference of 22mm (3.52%) which is above theie recommended 2.5% maximum difference, so I guess the answer is no I shouldn't put them on.

Cheers

ALi-B

iTrader: (1)

You could try a slightly wider tyre; as that gives a higher sidewall ratio.

So for instance 235/45/17 or 245/45/17 would work so long as they clear the lower arm/arch/arb linkage. But seeing that's not what you have lying around its a bit of a moot point (although, handy to know if you want a bit of extra meat around the rim to protect from curb damage).

Leslie

I am fed up of low profile tyres now, not very comfortable over our deteriorating roads any more.

Les