Downsizing to Smaller Diameter Wheels

Friday, October 28, 2011 by Gary Stanley
Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel PackagesIt's pretty common to see performance enthusiasts upgrade to larger diameter auto tires and wheels (rims & tires). If you're not familiar with the plus sizing concept, or just need a refresher, read "Plus Sizing 101." What about the other side of the coin? Why would someone want to minus size their tires wheels package and go to a smaller wheel diameter?  

Listed below are a few options why going smaller makes sense:
  • Rough road areas: Combining taller tires with smaller diameter wheels will help absorb more impact. This setup helps protect the wheels and provides a softer ride.
  • Off-road use: Many off-road enthusiasts would like to maximize their wheel protection. And many accomplish this by minus sizing their wheels and using a taller set of offroad tires.
  • Economy: Often times, smaller diameter wheels and taller tires are less expensive than larger diameter wheels and low profile tires. 
The majority of cases for minus sizing are done for Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages. When you shop by vehicle, our site will provide alternate tire and wheel options for your vehicle. 

Comments on Downsizing to Smaller Diameter Wheels

Friday, February 17, 2012 by mark svencer:
I have a 2000 ford expedition Eddie Bauer version it has 265/70/17 on it can I put a smaller wheel on it without an effect on the speedometer
Monday, February 20, 2012 by Gary:
Mark,

Yes, you can minus size to 16" on the 2000 Expedition. To keep the speedometer reading the same, use size 265/75R16.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012 by Christy:
We have a 2008 honda civic. We are looking at putting 16' Factory HONDA WHEELS and Brand New DUNLOP TIRES size 195/55R16 on there. Will this mess up the car performance. If so how?
Tuesday, April 10, 2012 by Gary:
As long as the wheels are a proper fitment, the 195/55R16 should work well with no problem. 205/55R16 would be a closer match and would be preferred.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012 by C from California:
I have 31x10.5x15 on my 1994 Toyota 4x4. The alloy wheel is 15"x7" Can I downsize to 225/75/R15 street tires?
Wednesday, April 25, 2012 by Gary:
Yes the 225/75R15 will indeed fit on the 15X7 wheel and still has the correct fitment and load capacity.
Saturday, April 28, 2012 by Gary:
I just bought a 2012 Kia Optima with 18" wheels and 225/45R/18 tires. What are my options for downsizing winter wheels/tires?
Monday, April 30, 2012 by Gary at Tire Rack:
If the Optima is a non turbo model, you can minus size to 16" with 215/60R16 or 17" with 215/55R17.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012 by Gary:
Sorry, I might need to clarify as I am unsure of your response. My car is a Canadian Spec Optima EX, no turbo but with 18" wheels and the larger brakes.
Is this the limiting factor on how small I could go? Does this limit me to the 17" wheels with 215/55/R17?

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