stock tire size for the tc is 215/45/17, what if I went down to a 195 or went up to a 225 ? would traction or tread life be affected ?

thanks!

 

Treadlife depends on the brand of the tire and how hard you drive. As for traction, a 225 would have larger contact patch than a 195. I wouldn't go with a smaller tire on a factory rim but a 225 is fine

 

Why a 195? Thats not even a step down, a 205 would be a step down. Tire wear would not be affected unless alignment was horrible for the car. A 225 would be a better bet.

 

but doesnt the stock come with 215? plus the 225's are 10 bux more lol

 

Stay with the same size tire, but get one with a higher treadwear rating.

Decreasing the width of the tire reduces contact patch. Somewhat better for wet weather, generally worse overall. Usually I just stick with what is stock.

 

Yes, stocks are 215's. 225 never hurt for more contact patch for 10 more bucks per.

 

but would 225 wear out faster since theres more contact area ?

 

No a 225 would have a larger contact patch but if you bought the same tire n a 215 they would wear the same. The 225 is jus wider and therfore had more contact to the street. Treadlife all depends on treadwear,how hard you drive,ect. If you want some tires that are good all seasons and last a long time, spend some $$ and buy some yokohamas or sum michelins.IMO

 

yea but yokos and michs have low treadwear, theyre like 200-300 cause the compound is soft and stickier (therefore they preform better but dont last as long)

 

My michelins pilots have a 500 treadwear. I bought them for $150 a piece. But to answer the question, tracion and treadwear depend on the type of tire. Do some research and find the right tire you like.

 

If your main concern is tread life and traction, you should check out the new Yokohama AVID ENVigors! I've had them for almost 1000 miles so far and they're so smooth and quiet. It grips almost like my previous S.drives. The ENVigors are rated 560 in treadlife and A in traction and they're all seaon.