1G tire size too big? TSi FWD

[93AWDDSM]

I switched out some raggedy 16" wheels/tires for some I'm assuming evo 8 wheels with Michelin tires. The tire is a 245/45/17R. I've checked the strut it doesn't seem to touch or rub. Will these be an issue to run on FWD daily driver? It's stock suspension, not going to be lowered at all.

Thanks.

 

[Kryndon]

I don't see why not, if they definitely aren't rubbing against the knuckle. You'll have a more planted feel of the car going around corners, turning radius will increase a little, MPG will drop somewhat and it will feel a tad sluggish.

But the aesthetics and improved handling will definitely be worth it, so just go for it. Also you can always go a size smaller on those tires. I find that 225/50/17 is a really nice all-round performer on most 7.5-8.5" wheels. A bit cheaper too.

 

[93AWDDSM]

I have attached a picture, can someone chime in if this is too close to the strut? Thanks

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[lasershark]

If it rubs when driving then yes, if it doesn't then no!
Factory size for the evo is 235/45 and when going to 245 most people (including me) roll with 245/40 as it puts it closer to the factory rolling diameter.

 

[93AWDDSM]

I didn't really have a choice on tire, it was what was just on the wheel. I don't seem to notice it rubbing but it's for sure bouncy because of blown struts (new ones here tomorrow). I do notice the grip around corners vs 205 size, it currently has 245/45/17

 

[Denvario]

245/45/17 is what I run every once and awhile my tire hits the fender but not bad guess the offset on the wheel could be the culprit though

 

[93AWDDSM]

245/45/17 is what I run every once and awhile my tire hits the fender but not bad guess the offset on the wheel could be the culprit though

Yours is awd correct?

Mine is fwd, haven't noticed them hit at all even with 95% blown struts.

 

[Denvario]

Yours is awd correct?

Mine is fwd, haven't noticed them hit at all even with 95% blown struts.

Yeah mine is awd looks like the same clearance between the strut though

 

[PlanZero]

I personally dont like anything wider than 225s. Currently I have 215/50/r17s (7.5" wide wheels) on two cars, one fwd, one awd. That's the stock size that came with the stock 17s. It still handles amazingly (much better than stock 16s) I noticed even with 225s on an 8" rim I would get occasional knuckle rub on hard corners. I would also get occasional fender rub over hard bumps even though I rolled the fender lip. I did however notice I got less rub with the 3g upper control arms in the rear. The previous owner had only replaced one control arm so it was an easy comparison. Even though the 3g tubular arms fit the same, you can visually see that side sticks out just a tiny bit more. If you put those evo wheels on and you do get occasional knuckle rub I'd try the 3g arms. There's always a ton at the local junkyard.

Both cars have ST springs with kyb gr2s, stiff but very streetable and lower about 1.5". Just realized you're on stock suspension so you'll probably be fine.

 

[Tyeler18]

There's actually no way for the tire to hit the strut in your scenario, unless the wheel bearing were to develop significant play, or a strut mount bolt came loose. The tire moves in synch with the lower half of the strut so it cannot contact it if it's not contacting it right now. Fender clearance is going to be the issue

 

[93AWDDSM]

Just got my stock kyb gr2 that I'll be installing this weekend. Thanks for the tips, yeah it's going to stay stock height. I'll keep an eye on it though!