How to match tires to rims to enjoy a safe and comfortable ride? Find out how a special calculator can help you with this

Finding the right tires for your rims is not as easy as it might seem. It is important to know what the specific symbols and numbers on tires and rims mean. Then you should follow strict guidelines regarding the width of these elements. If you are wondering how to match tires to rims, the following tips will surely come in handy.

Rim Marking

Are you wondering how to choose tires for wheels and where to start? At the very beginning, it is worth finding out what is hidden under the symbols on the rims. Where to find them? Usually inside they are a series of numbers and letters, each symbol carries important information. Their order is also not random. The first position, expressed as a number, indicates the width of the rim in inches. Next comes a letter indicating the profile of the flange used in the car. In the case of a passenger car, this is the letter "J". Whereas, when it comes to an SUV, it will be the symbol "JJ".

More symbols on the inside of the rim

Rim width and flange profile are not the only information about a rim. The next number you will find on the inside is the rim diameter in inches. The following symbols inform the driver about the cross-sectional profile of the rim and the distance of the axis of symmetry from the mounting surface of the rim. Each of these parameters play a very important role and should be taken into account when choosing the right rim for a tire - you can't afford to be random here. Everything must be carefully calculated, only then it will provide the driver and his passengers with driving comfort and safety on the road.

Rim width - what you need to know?

In the process of matching tires to rims, the output is the size of the rim. What is worth knowing about the correct ratio between these two elements? It is believed that the diameter of the new wheel cannot be more than the original one by no more than 2%. Too large a size could have many negative consequences - including increased traction when driving and increased fuel consumption. Does this mean that tires of different widths cannot be fitted to the same rim? It's possible. However, you should always keep safety and driving comfort in mind. The new tire must not protrude beyond the contour of the wheel arch. It also should not rub against the suspension or bodywork.

Tire width and rims - proportions

Are you wondering what tire selection for rims might look like in practice? First check the width of the rim, and then match them with suitable tires. For example, if the tire width in mm is 205, the recommended rim width is 6.5. Tires in size 205/55 R15 are commonly used in the most popular passenger cars. On the other hand, if you are dealing with a slightly wider tire such as 225mm, then choose a 7,5 rim width. When buying new wheels, the output will be the tire width.

Tire selection table for rims

Another way to make sure the tire profile matches the rim is to use a table and calculators available on the internet. The table shows data such as tire width, recommended rim width and rim width range for a given tire width. Usually these data are expressed in millimeters. The exception is the rim diameter, which is sometimes expressed in inches. However, the height of the profile wall is also sometimes presented as a percentage - more precisely, this is the ratio of height to width, i.e. another parameter that helps in the exact selection of tires.

Disk size - can it be changed?

Many vehicles can be fitted with multiple wheel sizes, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicles to their liking. In such a situation, it is necessary to change the rims. Is it safe and what does the manufacturer recommend then? It is possible, but be sure to select the correct rim width to match the tire width. Manufacturers allow a change in its diameter within the approved dimensions by no more than 2%. Then it will not affect the security and operation of security systems.

How to match tires to rims?

You may be wondering if choosing the right tires for rims is so important? Of course! Tire size is not the only thing that matters when choosing a tire. They differ in many ways, such as profile, application or tread. It is worth knowing that not all tires of the same size fit every rim. In addition, when buying, you should consider the type of tread and tire profile - whether they are winter or summer. In order not to be mistaken, you can always seek help from a specialist who works in a car dealership and will be able to suggest something. It is also worth keeping abreast of the manufacturer's recommendations.

Wrong tire size for rims

What can happen if you drive on the wrong rim tires - for example narrower or wider than the original? Firstly, they will wear out much faster than on properly fitted rims. This will not only expose the driver to faster tire wear, but also force them to change tires more often. If the tires are not properly matched, this will affect the camber, which will cause constant problems in the operation of the car. Choosing the right rims and tires is a way to save money and enjoy driving.

Tire selection and driving safety

When rims are fitted with tires that are not designed for them, this also has a negative effect on many vehicle components. For example, sensitive safety systems such as ESP or ABS may stop working. This creates a very dangerous situation - when braking hard, the car loses traction and can skid. It also increases the risk of hydroplaning, where the tread is unable to move water away from under the wheels. Moreover, the tires then run unevenly and are not able to maintain the correct position on the rim.

Car tire fitting

Have you already found tires in a size that matches your rims? Are you thinking about taking apart and then mounting the tires on a steel rim yourself? In such a situation, it is best to seek the help of professionals. Contrary to appearances, this task is not as easy as it might seem. Nowadays, most cars are equipped with modern tires with a complex design, and trying to replace them on your own most often turns into a waste of time and money - including if the tire is damaged.