How To Choose The Right Tires For Your New Rims

How To Choose The Right Tires For Your New Rims

So, you just picked up a set of new wheels—congrats! But before you bolt them on, you’ll need to find the right tires to match. Whether you're prioritizing performance, style, or all-season practicality, selecting the correct tire size and type is crucial for a safe and dialed-in ride.

At WOT Performance Parts, we help you get the perfect setup by offering top-quality tires, wheels, and everything in between.

Why The Right Tires Matter

Choosing the wrong tires for your new rims can lead to:

  • Poor fitment or rubbing issues

  • Speedometer and odometer inaccuracy

  • Bad ride quality or unsafe handling

  • Premature tire or suspension wear

Step 1: Match Tire Size To Rim Width

Each rim width supports a range of tire widths. Here's a general rule:

  • 7.5" rim → 215–235mm tire

  • 8.5" rim → 235–255mm tire

  • 9.5" rim → 255–275mm tire

Check manufacturer fitment charts or use a tire calculator to find the right width and aspect ratio.

Step 2: Consider Your Driving Style

  • Daily Driver: All-season or performance touring tires offer comfort and longevity.

  • Track/Performance: Summer tires or semi-slicks provide max grip.

  • Off-Road: Look for all-terrain or mud-terrain tires for durability and traction.

  • Show Builds: Stretch tires for stance, or meaty fitments for aggressive looks.

Step 3: Determine Overall Diameter

Your new setup should stay within ±3% of the factory tire diameter to avoid speedometer issues. Example:

  • OEM tire: 225/45R17 (25.0")

  • New tire: 245/35R19 (25.7") → Acceptable

Use a tire size calculator to confirm compatibility.

Step 4: Check For Clearance

  • Ensure the new tires won’t rub on fenders or suspension components.

  • For aggressive fitments, consider rolling fenders or adding camber.

Step 5: Choose The Right Tread Pattern

  • Directional: Great in wet conditions, sporty look.

  • Asymmetrical: Balanced grip and quiet ride.

  • Symmetrical: Long tread life, common for economy setups.

Pro Tips For Tire Selection

Get The Perfect Fit With WOT Performance Parts

We carry a wide range of performance tires, all-terrain options, and OEM replacements to match your wheels perfectly. If you're unsure about sizing, our fitment experts are here to help. Contact WOT Performance Parts today for more information.

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