I'm ordering some wheels soon. I want to get some 17x7 wheels. Tire rack reccomends 215/45-17 tires, but when i play around with a tire size calculator, 205/45-17 gives a more accurate speedo reading. What tire size is correct? I don't want to get my speedometer recalibrated.

also, what offset do i need for my 03 Si, and is there anything else i should be concerned with besides a 4x100 bolt pattern?

thanks,
darkvibe

 

The size that's correct is the size the calculator says. The tire rack does not give speedometer ratings as far as I know. All I know is that they recommend "plus" sizing but any size you choose is completely the individual's preference.

One might want a wider tire for performance - or like you, be concerned about the speedometer. Either way, it's up to you. If you choose a size that's not perfect to the stock wheel/tire diameter, the closest will do. Keep in mind, a change in profile has more effect on the speedo than a wider tire. The closer you are the better. I don't think it's worth getting a speedo recalibrated if it's off more than like 3 or 4% fast.

I believe the offset range you want to look for is within 37-45 range. The lower the offset #, the more the wheel will stick out.

 

Thanks for the info. The 205/45-17 is like .1% off of stock speed if i remember right.

 

I got 0.2% off too slow. Which translates into if you're going 60MPH, you're actually going 60.1MPH.

If you were to get the wider 215, you'd be going 61MPH as it's 1.7% too slow.

 

get 215's...more meat on the sidewall helps greatly against potholes/curbs/small children....lol.
I got 215's and i actually curbed it pulling thru the bank driveup and to my astonishment...ZERO damage to wheels/tires...
Kumho 712's have a nice rim protector built into the tire...
I've also hit a few potholes and havent damaged a rim/tire yet...