Hey Everyone. Like most of you, I noticed that the OEM tires are wearing out in the 30K range. I have loked at theOEM size tires and most have a speed rating of V (up to 149mph). As I don't go that fast, I would be happy with an H rated tires (Up to 130MPH). I am curious if a P225/60R16 would fit on an 06 Sonata. I am very versed on tires and the affects of changing speed ratings. However, moving to the more popular size would open up my options greatly in various available tires.

I am just curious if anyone else has tried this size on thier newed style sonata and if they had any clearance issues?

Thanks

Eric

 

We had a guy put some really oversized tires on his Elantra, and I would have thougt they wouldn't fit, but he said it worked. He got nasty, so his post was deleted, or I would find it for you. Try doiing the fronts first as a test.

 

The original tires on your car should have been 215/60-16. That tire has a diameter of 26.1". The 225/60-16 tire you are suggesting has a diameter of 26.6". That will cause your speedometer to be off by 2%. While that tire will probably fit, it's not the best size. If you really want a wider tire, you should go with a 235/55-16

My question is why do you want a wider tire? Visually, you won't be able to tell the difference between a 225 and a 215 tire however, it will have a higher rolling resistance that could lower fuel economy.

 

Thanks Nova,

You’re absolutely right that I won't visually notice the difference between the 225 and 215. And you’re right about the speedo and rolling resistance. The larger tire actuallyadds approx 5lbs more of un-sprung weight. However, I have noticed there are a lot more tire options in the 225/60R16 series. Plus my speedo is off and showing that I am going faster than I am actually going. If I go to the 235/55R16 that will have an overall shorter diameter which will make my speedo off even further.The P225/60R16 should get me closer while opening up my tire options. I use the car as a family commuter. I don't race it or anything like that. I want to get a tire that has a long life to it. You just can't find that in a "v" rated tire. And that seems to be the majority of the tires available in the OEM size. If I go up the 225/60R16 I can get an "h" speed rating (I don't ever go that fast) and get a tire with a higher tread wear rating. I have heard that changing the speed rating can affect the handling of the car. I have done it in the past with my 99 olds intrigue and didn't notice any change in characteristics in handling. Of course that is because I live in Florida and most of my driving is in a straight line!!

Jsinton,

That's what I thought of doing but I was thinking of but then I was concerned about over steer and wanted to put new tires all the way around. Just wanted to see if anyone had already done it and if it worked out ok before I put $600-$700 in tires that don't fit.

Thanks for the input and I look forward you your reply.

 

Glad to be of service. Let us know how you make out.

 

The factory speedo will not be off with the factory size tire. You are probably mistaken or have mis-calculated.

Incorrect. The 235/55-16 hasthe exact same diameter (26.1") as the factory 215/60-16 tire on your car.
- 55% of 235mm is 129.25mm (5.09")
- 60% of 215mm is 129.00mm (5.08")

 

Here's a neat little tool that can help you with your tire shopping....

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

Please remember that a tire can vary from one manufacturer to another.

 

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/Compar...p;startIndex=0

These are only $60 a pop. Great tire for the money.

 

Verified the speed was off by radar.Also, My gps also shows the speedo is off by 2-3 mph.

Your also right Jimmy! tires do vary by Manufacturor. I found a set of 225/60 Brigestone LS-T (t rated tire) for $500 installed. I hope I never need to go over 118 mph in that car. I had these 80K mile tires on another car and loved them.

I tired that Calculator. That was great. Thanks!

I called Tire rack and they said I should have no problem. Using the calculator you provided Jimmy, My speedo should move to be almost perfectwith the new tires.

Thanks

 

Cool! Glad I could help, and enjoy the new 'sneekers'.