Can a tire upgrade from 195 to 205 width pass the annual inspection?
4 Answers
Tire upgrade from 195 to 205 width can pass the annual inspection. Below are relevant introductions about vehicle modifications: 1. Color: Changing the vehicle body color. According to regulations, the body color change cannot exceed 3 types (if the emblem color change is also included), and the body color change cannot exceed 30%, and the same color as engineering rescue vehicles cannot be used. 2. Installation of front and rear anti-collision devices: Small and micro passenger vehicles installing front and rear anti-collision devices can be exempted from change registration, but be careful not to have behaviors that block the license plate or disguise blocking the license plate, which also falls within the scope of legal modifications. 3. Interior modifications: Generally, interior modifications that do not affect the safety structure of the vehicle do not require approval, such as replacing the entire interior with leather, adding sports kits, etc., installing roof racks, modifying the front grille, adding side steps, replacing wheel hubs.
When I was into car modifications, I also considered widening the tires. Switching from 195 to 205 may seem like a small increase, but it actually exceeds 5%, which is risky during annual inspections. Vehicle inspection regulations require tire sizes to match the original factory specifications, and non-compliance could lead to immediate rejection. While widening tires can slightly improve handling and give a more aggressive look, it also increases fuel consumption and puts more strain on the suspension. I recommend first checking the vehicle’s specification plate, consulting a repair shop or the DMV to see if minor modifications are tolerated locally. Otherwise, it’s safer to avoid the hassle to prevent failing the inspection and having to revert to 195. Overall, safety and compliance come first—modifications may be tempting, but the risks are high. It might be better to invest in other maintenance projects to enhance the driving experience.
Thinking about my own car, when I switched from 195 to 205 tires, it felt a bit more stable but the annual inspection was a real headache. One time the inspector measured with a ruler and said the width exceeded by about 5%, so it didn't pass, and I had to switch back to the original ones. From personal experience, wider tires improve handling but regulations are strict, especially in first-tier cities where annual inspections are more thorough. If you want peace of mind, stick with 195, or try your luck at a more lenient inspection site. Just a reminder, tires affect braking distance—don't risk safety for minor gains. Safe driving is what matters most.
Widening tires from 195 to 205 alters the force distribution, potentially causing instability and making annual inspections difficult. With years of driving experience, I know safety is paramount, and tire specifications are a key inspection item—any discrepancy will cause issues. I recommend sticking with the original 195 size to avoid complications. Instead of simple cosmetic changes, opting for high-quality tires to enhance durability is a better choice.
