What Impact Does Tire Size Have on a Car?
2 Answers
Tire size's impact on a car: Under conditions such as high-speed cornering with significant lateral forces, tires with larger sizes exhibit less deformation compared to standard wheels, thereby enhancing handling responsiveness. However, excessively large rims result in a lower tire aspect ratio, reducing comfort. Additionally, when driving on rough roads, insufficient tire cushioning can lead to rim deformation or damage due to impact. For tires with the same tread pattern, a wider tread typically provides better grip, but it also increases fuel consumption and tire noise. Tires with a higher aspect ratio offer better cushioning capability but have poorer road feedback and weaker lateral resistance during turns. Conversely, tires with a lower aspect ratio endure greater pressure, provide very sensitive road feedback, and exhibit strong lateral resistance during turns, significantly improving handling performance.
Tire size indeed affects driving, and I've experienced it firsthand. Wider tires provide better grip and stability when cornering, but they increase fuel consumption due to higher rolling resistance. After switching to wider tires, I spent over twenty dollars more on fuel each month. If the tire diameter is different, the speedometer becomes inaccurate—I once didn't even realize I was speeding. Additionally, large rims look cool, but they make the ride bumpy on rough roads, reducing comfort. I recommend medium-sized tires for daily use. When using snow tires in winter, proper sizing is crucial; otherwise, losing control on ice and snow becomes more likely. Cost-wise, larger tires are more expensive and wear out faster, making frequent replacements costly. In short, it's best to refer to the vehicle manual and stick to the original specifications.
