Rep Power: 0

Hi all,

I have a 2022 civic hatchback sport with the stock 235/40R18 tires. For downsizing, the Honda dealership (and a tire store or two) have recommended a 215/55R16 (0.4% smaller diameter) and some have also said a 205/60R16 (1.2% larger diameter) is fine.

I've been using this tire calculator here to compare tires and diameters: Tire Size Calculator

For the winter I'd like to use some winter tires and rims that I have from another recently sold car. They are 205/55R16 which is a touch different than the recommended tires. The 205/55R16 are 2% smaller in diameter than the stock tires.

My understanding is that anything within around 3% or so of the stock diameter should be OK. Obviously the speedometer will be a little off, but I'm wondering about traction control or any other safety systems (or causing some sort of "strain" on drivetrain or suspension components).

The bolt pattern, offset and hub bore size all fit fine (and I tried putting one of these wheels/tires on the car already and it fits well). So this is purely about the size of the tires (205/55R16 vs the recommended sizes above).

Any advice appreciated. I'm finding the dealerships and tire shops just want to say "The recommended size is X, we'd suggest you go with that.".

 
Rep Power: 223

If all four wheels are the same, there shouldn't be an issue.

 
Rep Power: 242

they have to tell you that so they are not liable for selling you the “wrong” size. If they are all the same size I don't see an issue with 3% smaller.

Order tires online. Tire rack will make you verify with a check mark that the tires are a different size then manufacture recommended but you can buy them.

 
Rep Power: 366

in winter, you want smooth. When making tires diameter smaller, you are doing the same as using a bigger final drive gearing. I would rather go with slightly bigger diameter than a smaller one for winter tires.

 
Rep Power: 0

I use that tire size calculator at times also. For Winter I’d want to lean a little narrower footprint, on the pavement. I often look to get taller tires, for general use, have done so for my truck.

If I feel the shop may grouse at my ideas, I do the carry in thing. That means I take the wheels off and take them in a different vehicle. That way nothing to fuss about.