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You could improve the performance and handling characteristics of your vehicle by tyre up-stepping or changing the specification of your tyres to a lower profile tyre and increasing the width but you must consult a tyre expert. Wider tyres combined with a lower tyre height can greatly improve the cornering force and grip to increase steering stability.
Larger and wider wheels will also help you to get the better performance from your car however safety guidelines must be adhered to. For example, wheel size and type, as well as tyre height and width must be confined within limits.
The following guidelines must be observed
Tyre Clearance
Wheel well clearance must be maintained. Tyres are likely to suffer damage when turning if you fail to maintain the required clearance. Vehicle manufacturers provide information regarding the maximum tyre width permissible.
You are strongly recommended that you consult an expert in high performance tyres before planning any amendment to the wheels or tyres fitted to your vehicle.
Speedometer Error
If you change the diameter of the wheels and tyres fitted to your vehicle, this will impact on the accuracy of speedometer and odometer readings. This may also affect the accuracy of service reminder systems.
Wheel Selection
In many cases new wheels are required because a larger rim width and/or larger rim diameter is called for.
With new performance wheels you must ensure that they have the correct offset and pitch circle diameter (PCD) for your vehicle.
Up Stepping to High Performance
Improving your vehicle's performance by optimizing a lower profile tyre/larger size rim combination is known as up-stepping.
This approach is preferred because, although it is possible to get higher performance without changing rims, it is not usually possible to gain optimal improvements without negatively affecting the vehicle’s steering geometry.
