Changing tire sizes...

[stmike1]

Hi,

I have a 2012 3 Skyactiv w/ stock 16" wheels and tires. when I get new tires, I want to go with a 215-40 or 45-16 but I may have to go with a 205-45-16 due to the rarity of 215's. Can I expect issues with the TPS and traction control?

Thanks!

 

[MidnightAxela]

You won't have issures with tpms or tc, but you will feel a slight rougher ride. Have you checked with your dealer about 215's? I know mazda dealerships carry them (I work for a mazda dealership) If they don't have them they can always order them for you.

 

[color0]

Traction control on the Skyactiv kicks in earlier if your tire diameter is smaller than stock -- I have had several instances of it almost running me off a cliff because I wanted to oversteer and the TCS kicked in and said "NO, you're going straight!", thus snapping the car out of a slide and towards the edge. If you don't have an oversteer-setup car, and don't track/canyon your car, this will not be a problem, but be forewarned if you do, TURN OFF TCS when running smaller diameter tires.

 

[stmike1]

Thanks, a lot. I'm okay with a rougher ride. I checked Tire Rack and tires.com for 215's and they have a very small selection and I'd prefer something better than the Turanza but still all season, like a Kumho ASX or something. I'll hunt more.

This is good info about the TCS. That is crazy!