Q: Buying new tires, have to get same size?

asked by on August 27, 2016

Im running 215/65-17 stock wheels and tires on my car. Going to buy new tires this week, my question is, do i have to buy the same width (215) or can i go a bit more wide? If so, whats the most i can widen my range without worrying about the rim being too narrow.

My car has 40000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Regarding wider tires, you should be able to go no more than a 225/55-17, but you should make sure by trying one on the rim first.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Hitting the gas pedal stalls the motor
When the car almost stalls, does the Check Engine Light illuminate? If so, a local mechanic (like those with YourMechanic) can diagnose the problem by scanning the vehicle computers for codes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/book/?mktg_jid=321). This could be caused by an electrical problem...
AC works sporadically
Hello. It sounds like you have an intermittent problem. If the A/C compressor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ac-compressor-replacement) or A/C pressure switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ac-pressure-switch-replacement) is working intermittently, this may cause the A/C to work intermittently as well. Have a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic,...
Not turning over
Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe. This kind of condition is often very confusing for a non-tech. Even though your battery cables are tight, it does not mean the connections are good. Corrosion, surface...
Career Questions
Q1. Both my dad and grandfather were automotive technicians, so it just sort of felt natural. I spent a lot of time in the garage as a kid. Q2. Working with your hands and problem solving. Once you're done with...
I got a oil change and now my oil has a major leak coming from the top what can this be?
You may have got oil spilled on top of the motor by whoever did the oil change. Double check the oil filter is not leaking and check oil level. If you suspect the shop did something wrong during oil change...
in my 2006 Chrysler 300 a ESP/ABS light shows what is the reason and how do you fix it
Hi Stormykally. Your car is equipped with wheel speed sensors at each of the four wheels which monitor wheel speed while relaying this information constantly to the ABS and traction control system which are controlled by the car’s ECU. When...
My car has a code P0342 replaced twice now won't start
You may need to check the wiring harness that runs to the camshaft position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/camshaft-position-sensor-replacement) as it may be faulty or have a poor connection resulting in the sensor not providing an accurate signal to the computer, which would...
Hi! I have a 2001 Mazda Protege that is giving me some transmission problems.
The problem sounds like the filter is getting clogged or the front main transmission pump is getting weak and internal seals are leaking. I would suggest having the filter screen cleaned and fluid replaced to see if shifting improves? If...

Related articles

Why Are My Tires Wearing Out Faster Than Normal?
If If you noticed that one or more of your tires are exhibiting signs of abnormal wear or is wearing out at a suspiciously fast rate, it may be a sign that there are other problems with your vehicle. Your...
Are Low-Profile Tires More Prone to Puncturing or Bursting?
Low-profile Low-profile tires are becoming more commonplace as manufacturers build vehicles or provide options suited to more visually-discerning or performance-oriented clients. They are tires that have short sidewalls which is noted by the second number in the tire size. For...
How to Tighten Lug Nuts
Lug nuts, or wheel locks, hold the wheel onto the car. Missing lug nuts can cause the car to wobble so it's important to keep lug nuts tight.