Need quick tire size advice.

[soposube]

Would be ok to run 215/55/16 on my wifes Forester?

The OEM size is 215/60/16.

 

[redlinerally]

Speedometer reading with non-stock tire is 3.2% too fast

When your speedo reads 60mph, you are actually traveling 58.1 mph

 

[soposube]

that's funny you mentioned speedo reading being off.

I recently drove down to NY and I brought me GPS with me.

My GPS stated that I was going about 3.5 mph slower than my speedo.

 

[Pedro]

Would be ok to run 215/55/16 on my wifes Forester?

The OEM size is 215/60/16.

You "could" do it if you wanted. but it is really going to kill the gas mileage if you guys hit the highway in it.

but if it was an around towner i would think you could get away with it untill you can get some of the correct size. if it is for AutoX then definitely go for it. better accel/off the line and the lower gearing will give you an advantage.

 

[mikebike357]

It's a known fact that Forester spedos are slightly off. You can run the 215/55R16's... There are some folks who do it.

 

[Bman]

IMO that small difference is not a huge deal.

 

[Evan]

that's funny you mentioned speedo reading being off.

I recently drove down to NY and I brought me GPS with me.

My GPS stated that I was going about 3.5 mph slower than my speedo.

that's normal. manufacturers build in a positive buffer so that the speedo will never read below what it should. it accounts for speed sensor variations, tire wear variations and such. its a safety thing (speed rated tires) and also takes them out of being liable for anything that happens when you're going faster than you think you are. most cars are about 3-5% above, some motorcycles are as much as 10%.