Topic: Tire Size Question

[Pompeyfan]

My Daughter has a 2003 Toyota Echo and has just blown a Tire. She drove on it and has split the sidewall. Tire size on this model is 175-65 R14 and we're looking for a cheap used substitute all season for now since the whole set will need replacement probably in the spring when she changes from winters back to all seasons.

Anyway I've seen a pair with pretty good tread - size 175 70 R14. I know that the tread is deeper (70% versus 65%) Anyone know if this might be a problem. Since there's a pair up for grabs, I figure it wouldn't hurt if they're installed on the same axle !

Thanks

[tpl]

Why not just use the winters ( all 4 presumably) for an extra 3 months.   

[Pompeyfan]

They're studded and we're not allowed to here in PEI until October

[tpl]

The Echo does not have abs or stability ?   Those slightly oversized tires should be able to go on the back wheels I suppose as the rears do nothing but stop the body wearing away on the road.

[PJungnitsch]

On my small RWD truck I tore the sidewall out of one of my 205/70's on a sharp piece of steel. The best replacement price was on 205/75's, so I put a pair of those on the rear axle.

Been like that for years now, no problem. Didn't notice anything different with handling, etc. It would have changed the speedo readout slightly, but according to GPS it's pretty much dead on now, so actually might have made it more accurate.

Of course if you put them on the rear axle of your FWD Echo (might look a bit funny otherwise) it won't change the speedo at all.

[morty]

Tires are too tall and you don't want to mix sizes on any vehicle unless it was designed to be so. If you are getting used, at the very least get the proper size. If it were my daughter I would want to ensure her safety. If you want an alternate size you can go with 185/60R14. Same overall diameter, but 10mm wider. If you go this route I suggest changing all 4.