Can 16-inch Tires Be Upgraded to 17-inch?
2 Answers
16-inch tires can be upgraded to 17-inch, but it may affect the vehicle's annual inspection. The Road Traffic Management Regulations of the People's Republic of China have corresponding provisions: motor vehicles must maintain good condition and clean appearance. Brakes, steering systems, horns, wipers, rearview mirrors, and lighting devices must be complete and effective. It is essential to ensure the correct installation of wheel hubs. When modifying wheel hubs, pay attention to the diameter of the center hole. If this size is smaller than the original factory size, it naturally cannot be installed. However, if it is larger than the original factory size and no measures are taken, it may cause eccentricity during vehicle operation, leading to abnormal noises and vibrations. In severe cases, it can directly affect the vehicle's safety.
16-inch tires can be upgraded to 17-inch ones, provided you also replace the rims. I've helped many car owners with this modification and found that the most common issue is size matching: 17-inch rims must have the correct bolt pattern and center bore, otherwise they won't be stable when installed. The tire size also needs adjustment, such as reducing the aspect ratio, to ensure the overall diameter remains unchanged. Otherwise, the speedometer will be inaccurate, possibly showing a higher speed than the actual one, which affects safe driving. Fuel consumption may slightly increase, and the suspension system will bear more pressure, potentially leading to faster shock absorber wear over time. The benefits of this modification include a cooler appearance, improved handling, and better grip during cornering. However, be mindful of the vehicle's height limit, as insufficient wheel arch space can cause tire sidewall scraping. In short, always consult a professional modification shop or refer to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid DIY mishaps. Road safety is no small matter, and it's advisable to get a wheel alignment after the modification.
