GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

It is time to get tires for my 03 fwd pontiac vibe. I have winters on a spare set of steel wheels so I want a set of touring tires that are a little lower and as wide as reasonable. Going for looks more than performance. What tire size can I pull off with my original 16" aluminum rims in a normal price range?

215

Are those the same as or the same width as the 16' GT wheels? If so, you can do a 225 without too much issue. I know you said you were more concerned w/looks than performance. That being said, I still have to say this:

That wide of a tire will affect performance in most situations. A regular driving tire of needed sidewall height to maintain proper circumference on that 16in wheel will result in a bit more flex in the sidewall (might be a bit more comfortable but not better handling), the wheels will also chase grooves and longitudinal bumps. In some cases, it can really yank the wheel pretty good. This happens when you run a tire a bit too wide for the rim, and wider tires in general. You may also have some uneven wear and under high performance situations, the tire may roll over a bit or overheat quicker resulting in shorter life. Oh, and they'll weigh more which brings it's own well-known negatives.

Some of those things are very minute, especially if you're not into hauling (removed) around. Still, I was compelled to expel them from my mouth.

rule of thumb is that you shouldnt go more than 50mm wider than the rim width...

6.5" wide oem wheel is about 165mm. therefore 215 would be as wide as i go.

too wide a tire makes for sloppy handling

but, unless you're racing it, you'll likely never really notice a difference