Tire Size
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Joined: Dec 2005
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From: MA
Tire Size
Hi all, tried to find it on the site, but I have a 2008 Mazda 3 S. This is my OEM tire size: 205/55-16. What is the widest size I can go? 215/50-16? Just wondering what all of you have done. Thank you. Brandon N.
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Joined: Mar 2007
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From: Manor, TX (Outside of Austin)
RE: Tire Size
I too am running 225/45-17's w/no issues. 215 is widest to safely run on a 6.5" wheel, A reputable tire shop would nottry to go bigger from all I've read.
Some are running 235's but need morenegative offset in their wheels (i.e. +45/+42mm) and you start getting into fender lip rolling, issues w/strut clearance (where the extended offset comes in,) etc.
Going to a 215/50 there will be a -1.685% in revs/mile. Translation: Your speedo will readhigh by over 1mph @65. (Speedo= 65. Actual= 63.9mph.)
Your best plus zero choice is the 225/50-16 to maintain proper circumference, but again, your wheels are only 6.5" wide.
Damned if ya' do, damned if ya' don't. Same problem I ran into. I ended up getting 7" wheels.
If you have to do that, go to a 17" wheel (or 18" is weight isn't a concern for you) w/225/45's.Anything over 7.5" wide on a 3 is a waste and will just add to the unsprung weight.
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Joined: Mar 2007
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From: Manor, TX (Outside of Austin)
RE: Tire Size
Simple answer is, Yes! But no lower.
Really, this is a common question and though I have no need to do it myself it will work. No clearance issues w/16's. Just make sure, and I say this to anyone replacing the OE's w/something else, to be careful of the OE offset (+52.5mm) and stay as close to that as possible. Fewer handling, tracking and clearance issues that way.
Joined: Dec 2006
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RE: Tire Size
I am running 18 x 7.5 with a +45 offset and the recommended tire size 225/40/18. If you go 18, get this tire size. It is stock size on speed 3's and it is only .1 percent different so, basically none at all.
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