Snow Tires

[935684]

I've decided that I can't afford the Nokian Haaka Q tires, much to my regret. I'm going to buy either the Kuhmo KW15 or the Canadian Tire Nordic IceTrac. They're more in line with my budget.I've gone back over the messages during the past 60 days, and I've noticed considerable disagreement about whether in fact the 195/65/15 is an acceptable substitute for my 205/55/16 tires. I agree that it's a better snow tire, because it's narrower than the 205/55/16. However, the question still remains - Will the 15 inch steel wheels be large enough for the front disc brakes?Further, with respect to the winter steel rims - Am I correct that the rim size is the 16 x 6.5, 5 bolt 100 mm pattern, in case I choose to stay with the 205/55/16? Both the Vibe owner's manual and my dealer's service department seem to lack any useful information about this. What size rim should I look for in case I decide to buy 195/65/15 tires? Regardless of size, is it OK to use a generic steel rim, or would I be better off sticking with the GM or Toyota products? The latter option would double the price of the rims.I'm in Canada. Generic rims seem to cost about C$50 to C$65 each, while GM rims cost in excess of C$100 each. The Khumo tires cost about C$115 each from TireTrends in BC (Their rims are C$65) - shipping for 4 wheels and rims adds C$70, and there's 7% GST on top of it. There's no PST, as I live in Ontario.The Canadian Tire stores in Huntsville and Bracebridge, Ontario seem clueless as to what's available, and their service is abysmal. Their stock seems extremely limited, and they know nothing about which rims are OK for the Vibe. I assume their generic rims are about C$50 each, and I've yet to learn the price of IceTracs. I know that they charge extra for installation and balancing, whereas it's included in the TireTrends price.Any help would be appreciated very much, as I have to decide within about a week. It's starting to get a bit cool here , and we usually get our first snowfall around the end of this month.

[labelle]

Hello,If I go to Costco, do i have to know the exact bolt pattern or the salemen know it?What is the size of your rim?? 15" ?? What color are they ??regards,Gilles LabelleMontreal, Quebec

[Sub-Vibe-R]

15" rims will fit on a Vibe cause Toyota Corolla have 15" rims and as you know, Matrix, Vibe and Corolla have the same brake.I decided to go with Bridgestone Blizzak WS-50. I got them for $120 (Canadian) for 195 70r15. I had Blizzak on my other cars and this is the best choice I ever made. Very good grip on ice and snow, very quiet.I know they are a little more expensive then Canadian tire ice track but I think Blizzak are much better.Also, I asked prices for this tire in 205 55r16. $725 for 4 tires, installation, valve and balancing and taxes included. I got 15" tires and rims for $775, all included.

[ChuckP]

I got the winter tire package from tirerack, it came with 16 inch steel rims and 205/55-16 Bridgestone Blizzak ws-50's. The price was about $600, this included shipping, mounting and balancing and even a new set of lug nuts. It only took about 3 days to get also.