98 Accord V6-EX - OEM 205/65R15 to 215/60R15 tires

Hi!

My 98 Accord V6 EX came with OEM Michelin 205/65R15 tires. I had them
replaced with the same size Dunlops, and it is now time for a new set. I
was wondering if replacing them with 215/60R15 tires is possible at all.
Not so much for the plus one sizing but more to find out if there's enough
room in the wheel-well for a 215 tread so that I won't be rubbing against
any suspension rods either in a straight line or turning. I am trying to
get a certain type of Continentals and they don't come in the 205/65 size,
only the 215/60.

Thanks for any info!!!


Pete

 

I am pretty sure that'll work. Remembering how much space there was in the
wheel wells of my '00 Accord, even a 225-wide tire would fit. However, the
rim needs to be at least 6" wide to support a 215/60 tire. I can't remember
how wide the stock 15" rims are.

Also, I see TireRack recommending 215-wide tires for 17" and 18" rim
applications for your car, so it should work on 15" rims as well. I was
planning to do a 215/50/17 upgrade to my Accord at one point too, but then
realized the wheel gap would optically appear even bigger unless I upgraded
suspension as well.

Cheers,

Pete

 

Is it possible to use 195 tires on those rims to lower gas use ?
Any risk of losing tire in a bend ?

Alain

 

It's possible, as long as these 195 tires have the minium load index
specified in your owner's manual. However, going from 205 to 195 I doubt
you'll notice much improvement in terms of mpg. Personally, I'd rather have
more traction and stability, especially at higher speeds.

Regards,

Pete