snow tire size for stock GT rims

looking to pick up some Nokian WR for the winter. Been told that they do not carry 215 45 17 but have 225 45 17 and would fit the stock rim. Does the wider tire make a big difference? Or should i look for something else that comes in 215 45 17?

I just placed an order for Dunlop M3 snow tires in 225/45-17. I had these tires on my last car and they are amazing. Check out the rating in the link at the bottom. They handle better then most summer tires. Any way the Dunlop M3 tires are $134 ea in the 215/45 and $144 in 225/45. I'm putting on wider tires so that I have more rim protection. They say the thinner the better in order to cut through the snow. FYI: we have a 7 inch wide rim and the widest tire we can run is 235...if it fits.

 

 

Good Luck,

 

Jeff K.

 

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Dunlop&tireModel=Winter+Sport+M3&vehicleSearch=false&partnum=145R7WSM3&fromCompare1=yes&place=1

In previous posts, I recall some recommendations for a Nokian 205/50-17. Would I be risking wheel protection by using this size?

looking to pick up some Nokian WR for the winter. Been told that they do not carry 215 45 17 but have 225 45 17 and would fit the stock rim. Does the wider tire make a big difference? Or should i look for something else that comes in 215 45 17?

 

Actually, Nokian WR are available in both 215/45/17 and 205/50/17. No need to go for a wider 225/45/17. Nokian RSi on the other hand is not available in 215/45/17 but is available is 205/50/17 which is a better choice than 225/45/17 for snow.

If you don't go with the Nokians, another choice is the Michelin Alpin. I have a set of these (in 215/45/17) that I use when heading north for ski trips; they have been fine in the light snow that I've seen. These tires are also very quiet in dry conditions.

 

Try to keep the overall revolutions/mile close to stock so you don't throw off the speedometer.

Agreed.

I have the Rsi's in 205/50-17 and had a good experience with them last year.

You want a smaller contact surface for ice (as opposed to the 225/45-17).