Confused on changing rims to plus + from OEM size?

ISZZIEANNA

MEMBER
2019 MAZDA 3
106,000 MILES

So, l just bought my first car listed above GX. I'm very excited about learning about the car, especially it being manual. I have some plans for modding the car already. The first thing I was looking at doing was changing the rims/wheels. The wheels on my car are the stock wheels and they don't look so great.
The OEM tire/wheel size is 205/60 R16. I was looking to upsize the wheels to 17", but I know I need to change the tire size. So, I was looking at 215/50 R17. I heard that I need to go 10mm + for the width, minimize my sidewalls etc. I really don't know if this size of tire will fit my car. So, what do I do next?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

Anytime I am asked about changing tire size, I always recommend checking to see if the manufacturer had an optional size.

Also, I like to recommend a site online where you can compare tire sizes.

Here is the link to that site.

https://tiresize.com/comparison/

The site shows the differences in diameter, sidewall height, width, and even how many revolutions each tire goes through in a mile. If you look below, I attached what I found on the two tires you mentioned. (See pic 1)

Next, if you purchase an aftermarket wheel, it is important to keep in mind there are different offsets. Basically, the wheel's offset is what determines how far inward or outward the wheel/tire will sit. This is extremely important because you don't what the tire to rub the suspension or the fender when turning.

Take a look at the site. Try to keep the replacement size as close as possible to the OEM tire size.

Also, I checked out the tire wholesaler I use to see what sizes were offered. The 16" is that you mentioned and an 18" was offered on the hatchback. I would think they should work on either. It's just a thought. See pic 2 below.

I hope this helps.

Take care and let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

Images (Click to make bigger)