
Tire sizes that are too large will result in shorter mileage, failure to pass annual inspections, increased fuel consumption, and may lead to phenomena such as 'tire wear' or 'pulling to one side,' as well as reduced tire lifespan. Specific effects of larger tire sizes: Original tires are more in line with fuel consumption standards. Larger tires mean increased weight, leading to higher fuel consumption during driving. Mileage becomes shorter because as the tire and rim size increase, the tire's diameter and radius lengthen, increasing the circumference. This results in a reduced rotation speed and noticeable changes in the distance covered per rotation. Failure to pass annual inspections is due to Article 16, Section 1 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China,' which states that no unit or individual may assemble motor vehicles or alter the registered structure, construction, or characteristics of motor vehicles without authorization. Precautions for replacing car tires: When selecting tires, the specifications must match the previous tires and be identical to the other tire on the same axle, including speed rating, load index, tread pattern, brand, size, etc., to ensure safe driving. The valve stem should also be replaced because, after changing tires, the aging cycles of the new tire and valve stem differ. During the new tire's lifespan, the valve stem may develop issues that are not easily noticeable. Therefore, it is best to replace the valve stem when changing tires. Installation direction and inflation: If using original equipment tires, follow the manufacturer's installation requirements. For non-original tires, the side with the production date usually faces outward. For directional tires, align the arrow on the wheel with the car's forward direction. When inflating, fill to the maximum pressure allowed by the tire, then reduce to the manufacturer's specified standard pressure.

Changing to larger tire sizes has always been a hot topic. As an ordinary driver with over a decade of experience, I've summarized several safety impacts: Handling noticeably deteriorates, with increased body roll during turns, making the car feel unstable—especially at high speeds or on slippery roads, raising the risk of losing control. Braking distances lengthen because, although the tire's contact patch increases, uneven weight distribution leads to inconsistent braking force. Speedometer inaccuracies grow; what reads 100 km/h might actually be 110 km/h, easily resulting in speeding tickets. Additionally, a higher center of gravity makes the car more prone to tipping during turns. I advise against changing sizes purely for aesthetics—always consult a mechanic first to test compatibility, as safety should always come first.

Car enthusiasts who love modifications often go for larger wheels for a cooler look. I've personally tried upgrading, but it noticeably slowed down acceleration, increased engine load, and raised fuel consumption—costing me 20% more in fuel for city driving. Grip improves on flat roads, making corners more stable, but on bumpy roads, the wheels often scrape the wheel arches, damaging the tires. Steering also becomes heavier, requiring more effort to control. If you want to enhance performance, just slightly widen the size without exceeding the factory limits. Matching the wheels and suspension is also crucial; improper alignment can cause drifting and ruin the driving experience.

From a cost-saving perspective, with my limited budget, I've done the math: larger tires cost double, adding hundreds per tire, and fuel consumption spikes, increasing monthly fuel expenses by dozens. Warranty may be voided due to illegal modifications, making repairs more expensive. At resale, buyers may dislike the faster depreciation, and insurance premiums could rise. Sticking to the original size saves money and hassle.


