mateozzz

Although I'm sure I risk a million flames, I am considering downsizing my wheels to 16". Not to be a low rider or anything, but just to reduce ride harshness. Of course, the "normal" thing is to upsize, but I don't go to the dragstrip or drift around corners, so extreme cornering is not a concern. I'm not quite ready for a Buick, but some ride improvement wouldn't hurt!

Its kind of interesting how the car handles big bumps very nicely, but the little bumps just get telegraphed right through, which, unfortunately, I didn't notice during the test drive! I think the fact that the car is very quiet makes it easy to accidentally overlook some bumps when trying to decide to buy the car. Oh well, I probably will get used to it and maybe the suspension will soften a little with some mileage, but I'm still considering the wheel & tire change.

Anyway, the original wheel is 17" 235x45 tires, so a 16" wheel with 225x55 works out about the same. Obviously I need to consult a wheel store before buying anything, but does anyone have any comments? (other than flames!)

And if anyone has a set of 16" wheels that can accept the TPMS stems (any tire), I would consider a trade for my 17s (2006 MY), which currently have the OEM Bridgestone EL42 (<1000 miles).

Matt

jupitersolo

Your OEM Bridgestone EL42 are the problem, maybe upgrade your tires and not the rims. I had a 05 with EL42's didn't like at all. When I got my 06 with Michelin's. It was night and day difference.

erdoc48

One of the other problems is that your tires may not be inflated enough- if they are low, the tires are being used primarily as the suspension devices instead of the suspension itself. You have to find the 'sweet spot' in terms of PSI. I noted my car rode kind of rough with the tires ~ 30 PSI. After some experimentation, 36 PSI makes the car handle well, and drive a lot smoother/ ride better. Too much pressure = too harsh of a ride. I'm not sure smaller wheels will fix your problem. I'd hate to see you spend all that money and have no resolution to the problem. I have the Michelins on my 06, by the way.