Winter Wheels - 16s on a 3s

[DetroitSP23]

I defintely want to hook up the snow tires for the winter...and I have a 3s with 17s so I know that 16" is the smallest I can go.

Anyone have suggestions for 16" winter wheels?
Is there a particular steel out there or just a generic?

[tsunami]

if you can find it steel would be best, i bought some old protege5 16 wheels to use. had a hard time finding 16 steel wheels...

[DetroitSP23]

The P5 wheels work pretty well for you?

[tsunami]

haven't got them on yet.... i wouldn't see why not, they are thinner... better for cutting into snow instead of riding on top, they have the same offset, and they are 16' for more side wall/beefier tread...

[marineaulu]

I have a 2004 Hatch GT with 17" wheels.
There was no way in hell I was gonna use the Goodyear RSA's in the winter. They are bad enough on dry pavement!

Last fall, I bought four 16" steel rims from Costco and 4 winter tires.
The winter tires are Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2, P205/55/R16. They are V rated.
http://www.michelinman.ca/catalog/tires/MichelinPilotAlpinPA2.html

Just love them. And I don't find they are noisy. Must be that the car is so well sealed.

I beleive winter tires are a must for this car (if you do have winters), unless you either want to crash your car, or you don't mind crawling instead of riding.

My opinion.

[tsunami]

i agree completely after tryin to cope last winter with the stockers... man oh man that was ugly thank god my gf had a car we could commute in...

[wongpres]

I have a 2004 Hatch GT with 17" wheels.
There was no way in hell I was gonna use the Goodyear RSA's in the winter. They are bad enough on dry pavement!

Last fall, I bought four 16" steel rims from Costco and 4 winter tires.
The winter tires are Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2, P205/55/R16. They are V rated.
http://www.michelinman.ca/catalog/tires/MichelinPilotAlpinPA2.html

Just love them. And I don't find they are noisy. Must be that the car is so well sealed.

I beleive winter tires are a must for this car (if you do have winters), unless you either want to crash your car, or you don't mind crawling instead of riding.

My opinion.
Actually, the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2 in the P205/55R16 size is H rated. The PA2 also comes in the stock Mazda3 17-inch tire size (P205/50R17), and in this size it is V rated. But H rated is plenty enough for a winter tire, and in fact I too run the PA2 myself in the P205/55R16 size (on stock Mazda3 16-inch alloys).

[ZoomVT]

i agree completely after tryin to cope last winter with the stockers... man oh man that was ugly thank god my gf had a car we could commute in...

Had?

Yeah i am using my stock 16s and i bought Hankook H rated tires and it worked well last year.

[Libra]

I think Goodyear makes a Blizzak tire for winter weather, and they fit the Mazda 3's. I'll get tire sizes and tire names up by tomorrow for everyone.

[DetroitSP23]

Anyone know if 205/60 - 16s will fit, or only 55s?

What was the offset on those steelies from Costco?

[Libra]

For all you MZ3 owners out there, here's a typed copy of the tires available for your car (all season and winter) that are available through the dealer. According to the chart I am referring to, All I models were equipped with 15's, with 16's optional. S models were equipped with 16's, with 17's optional. The S model 5 door is a standard 17 inch rim. Hope this is of use to a few of you... lol. Also, the AS and W at the end are referring to All-Seasons or Winter tires.

Mazda 3 I:
P195/65 R15:
89H, Toyo Proxes A18, 154610, (AS)
89H, Michelin Tiger Paw Touring HR, 57917, (AS)
91Q, Bridgestone Blizzak WS-50, 062812, (W)

Mazda 3 S:
P205/55 R16:
89H, Toyo Proxes A05, 154620, (AS)
89H, General/Continental Contitouringcontact CH95, 15463340000 (AS)
91H, General/Continental Contitouringcontact CH95, 03513940000 (AS)
89Q, Michelin Arctic Alpin, 58455 (W)
91H, Bridgestone Blizzak LM-22, 093262 (W)

Mazda 3 S 5 Door:
P205/50 R17:
88V, Goodyear Eagle RS/A, 732491500 (AS)
89H, Bridgestone Blizzak LM-22, 093327 (W)

[tsunami]

Had?

Yeah i am using my stock 16s and i bought Hankook H rated tires and it worked well last year.


yours came with 16" stock?? and she still HAS her car... 04' corrolla

[marineaulu]

Anyone know if 205/60 - 16s will fit, or only 55s?

What was the offset on those steelies from Costco?


Don't remember what was the offset, but the guy looked on his computer and told me exactly which rims to get. So, go there and ask 16's steelies for a Mazda 3.

[ZoomVT]

yeah the sedan s trim without the sports/aero package comes with 16s. Its kinda weird but i didnt care for the larger wheels since i was gonna upgrade anyways. so im set for the winter. :)


yours came with 16" stock?? and she still HAS her car... 04' corrolla

[DetroitSP23]

haven't got them on yet.... i wouldn't see why not, they are thinner... better for cutting into snow instead of riding on top, they have the same offset, and they are 16' for more side wall/beefier tread...

Do you know what size tire you'll get?

[tsunami]

no clue... but i haven't looked into it yet really... i believe the width is only 6, but i need to keep the same od or as close as i can get to the sotckers so prob somethin like 195/55 16 i would think... but thats just bein quick about it... but i think thats the right size...

[goldwing2000]

Definitely go as thin as possible for a good snow tire.

195/55 would work, as would a 185/60.

[MightyMouse]

Anyone know if 205/60 - 16s will fit, or only 55s?

What was the offset on those steelies from Costco?

Don't get Costco rims, they are low quality, not hub centric and the offsets are never right. I only recommend using factory steel wheels (yes, Mazda has them for our 3's, and that is what I am using)

I am using 205/60's (Blizzaks) and they do rub (even before my car was lowered 1.5") For my next set I will go with the proper 205/55. I just wish somebody made a 195/60/16 (Hey Bridgestone!!!)

And for those wondering, NOBODY makes a 16" snow tire narrower than 205 unfortunatley, really sucks, but we don't have a choice...I would love to put on 195's or 185's. I drive up to my chalet almost every weekend in the winter, and I don't slow down in deep snow :) so the skinnier the tire the better....Too bad they don't make rally snow tires (145's) in 16's LOL

[marineaulu]

Don't get Costco rims, they are low quality, not hub centric and the offsets are never right. I only recommend using factory steel wheels (yes, Mazda has them for our 3's, and that is what I am using)

I am using 205/60's (Blizzaks) and they do rub (even before my car was lowered 1.5") For my next set I will go with the proper 205/55. I just wish somebody made a 195/60/16 (Hey Bridgestone!!!)

And for those wondering, NOBODY makes a 16" snow tire narrower than 205 unfortunatley, really sucks, but we don't have a choice...I would love to put on 195's or 185's. I drive up to my chalet almost every weekend in the winter, and I don't slow down in deep snow :) so the skinnier the tire the better....Too bad they don't make rally snow tires (145's) in 16's LOL

Interesting comment about the Costco rims. You may be right, you may be wrong, I don't know. One thing I know is that I already went through a full winter season with them using Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2 winter tires. Last winter, here in Eastern Canada, we faced extreme temperature and weather conditions. No problems at all. Faced all conditions without any problems. And, they seem to spin OK, no steering shaking at high speed (tested at 170km/hr). Smooth riding and handling. So, not sure how they could be bad. I assume I have a good set.

[DetroitSP23]

I'm not aware of a factory 16" steel wheel for the 3. Are you thinking of the 15" or is there a steel 16" on a 6 or something that will work?

I'm with you on the 16" snow tire widths. 205 is too wide, but better than nothing I guess. Maybe they'll come around soon.

[tsunami]

i think the 6 may have steel wheels on the base i model... but the only steel wheels for the 3 are 15" b/c they only come on the i model...

[MightyMouse]

I'm not aware of a factory 16" steel wheel for the 3. Are you thinking of the 15" or is there a steel 16" on a 6 or something that will work?
.

The 16" steel wheels do not come on any vehicle standard. They are strictly an accessory winter rim for any of the GT models.

[BrianG]

...I only recommend using factory steel wheels (yes, Mazda has them for our 3's, and that is what I am using)...

After reading this post, I called my dealership and they said they indeed have plain old 16" steel rims...but they are about $185 each! Yikes! I might as well slap some snow tires on my factory alloys and get some decent aftermarket rims and tires next summer!

[MightyMouse]

After reading this post, I called my dealership and they said they indeed have plain old 16" steel rims...but they are about $185 each! Yikes! I might as well slap some snow tires on my factory alloys and get some decent aftermarket rims and tires next summer!

Holy crap, up here in Canada they are only $85 (I think that is what I paid) Canadian, which is about $65 US or so...??!?!?!???!

I also don't recommend using alloy wheels in the winter if you use salt on your roads. The salt destroys the alluminum and you get bead leaks pretty quick. And technicains REALLY hate cleaning all the crap out of the beads.... :)

[BrianG]

Well, I'd really like to get some steelies, but can't find anywhere online to get them. And I'll be damned if I'm gonna pay $185 for simple steel wheels! $55-$65 each is more reasonable, although I would have expected them to cost about $40 since I can get cheapie alloys from tirerack.com for $85.

[mmathias]

Wait, so why does everyone want to go to smaller wheels during winter? More sidewall means more flex and less stability. 16's will actual make the car worse on snow/ice because more rubber and more air will make the tire less rigid.

Stick to the stock 17's and throw on goodyear triple threads. the best damn tire wet or dry available today (well worth the price). The best part is you don't have to change them again come spring...

just my $0.02, but hey I live in Tahoe what do I know? (cheers)

[BrianG]

Wait, so why does everyone want to go to smaller wheels during winter? More sidewall means more flex and less stability. 16's will actual make the car worse on snow/ice because more rubber and more air will make the tire less rigid.

Stick to the stock 17's and throw on goodyear triple threads. the best damn tire wet or dry available today (well worth the price). The best part is you don't have to change them again come spring...

just my $0.02, but hey I live in Tahoe what do I know? (cheers)


I don't speak for everyone here I'm sure, but the reasons why I am looking for 16's are:

reason 1: Ease and price of finding a steel 16" steel rim as opposed to 17" rims. The tires alone are 10-15% less expensive for 16". I understand the sidewalls are higher, but it's winter - I won't be taking corners at 70mph or zig-zagging through traffic when it's snowing. Also, it makes no sense to have a nice set of wheels when the rest of the car is coated in snow, ice, and grime from the road.

reason 2: I'd ideally like to have two sets of specific tires. A set of 18" alloys wrapped in nice tires for summer, and a set of functional, deep tread winter tires for winter. Sure, a good set of all weathers will do it all, but tires specifically designed for snow and another set for summer will perform better in each.

However, if I can't find steel rims at a fair price, I will end up using the stock alloys with a good set of all-weather tires.

[marineaulu]

I don't see why you would use your stock 17" mag wheels with the stock 4 season tires during the winter, unless you don't have much of a winter.

For the rest of us facing real winters, we need smaller wheels than the stock and good winter tires.

In term total wheel height, 205/50/17 = 205/55/16.
As Brian G mentionned, the rationale of using a smaller rim size is to get cheaper tires, but also to get more grip over rough snowy/icy surfaces.
Best example, ATV's. Lot of rubber, low tire pressure, lots of grip.
I do get good traction under snowy conditions with my 16" steelies with a 55 tire profile.

If you do cope with serious winters, you know what I'm taking about.
Else, don't worry about us, just use your stock 17"s and go in peace.

[MightyMouse]

Wait, so why does everyone want to go to smaller wheels during winter? More sidewall means more flex and less stability. 16's will actual make the car worse on snow/ice because more rubber and more air will make the tire less rigid.

Stick to the stock 17's and throw on goodyear triple threads. the best damn tire wet or dry available today (well worth the price). The best part is you don't have to change them again come spring...


Have you ever even driven in snow? (confused)

You want the tire as soft as possible in the snow, and the skinnier the better (for cutting through the snow) 17's in the snow is absolutely horrible, going down to 16's make's the situation a little better, but our cars are really screaming for 15" snow tires. I am looking at having a set of 15" steel wheels custom built with a larger dropwell (that is the smallest diameter portion of the rim on the inside) to fit over the large brakes. Will just make tire changes a bigger pain in the ass (the smaller the dropwell, the less clearance you have for mounting tires)

Although, I have admitted to myself that our 3's will never be good in the snow, I will have to leave ice racing to my Honda Civic with the 145/80/13 Blizzaks (first)

[goldwing2000]

I just wish somebody made a 195/60/16 (Hey Bridgestone!!!)

And for those wondering, NOBODY makes a 16" snow tire narrower than 205 unfortunatley, really sucks, but we don't have a choice...I would love to put on 195's or 185's.


Not to be disagreeable or anything...


Continental ContiWinterContact TS810
(Performance Winter)
Overview | Specs | Warranty
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55TR16
Serv. Desc: 87T
Price: $96.00
Estimated Availability: In Stock
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $46.08 total with four tire purchase



Continental ContiWinterContact TS810 S
(Performance Winter)
Overview | Specs | Warranty
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55HR16
Serv. Desc: 87H
Price: $102.00
Estimated Availability: 11/04/05
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $48.96 total with four tire purchase



Dunlop Winter Sport M3
(Performance Winter)
Overview | Specs | Warranty | Reviews | Survey Results
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55HR16
RunFlat
Serv. Desc: 87H
Price: $123.00
Estimated Availability: Back Order
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8







Dunlop Winter Sport M3
(Performance Winter)
Overview | Specs | Warranty | Reviews | Survey Results
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55HR16
Serv. Desc: 87H
Price: $103.00
Estimated Availability: In Stock
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $49.44 total with four tire purchase



Pirelli Winter 210 Sottozero
(Performance Winter)
Overview | Specs | Warranty
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55HR16
Serv. Desc: 87H
Price: $105.00
Estimated Availability: 10/31/05
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $50.40 total with four tire purchase



Bridgestone Blizzak WS-50
(Studless Ice & Snow)
Overview | Specs | Warranty | Reviews | Test Results | Survey Results
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55QR16
Serv. Desc: 87Q
Price: $102.00
Estimated Availability: In Stock
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $48.96 total with four tire purchase



Goodyear Ultra Grip GW3
(Studless Ice & Snow)
Overview | Specs
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55HR16
RunFlat
Serv. Desc:
Price: $139.00
Estimated Availability: Back Order
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $66.72 total with four tire purchase



Michelin X-Ice
(Studless Ice & Snow)
Overview | Specs | Warranty | Reviews | Test Results
Sidewall Style: Blackwall

Size: 195/55QR16
Serv. Desc: 87Q
Price: $102.00
Estimated Availability: In Stock
Qty:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8



Road Hazard Program $48.96 total with four tire purchase

[waltmcgee]

I'm putting on P205/55 R16 for the upcoming winter. I was talking with the owner at my local tire shop (that has been in business since the 60's, when the owner moved from Germany where he did rally racing) and he recommended staying with the same size tire, just changing the rim size. Basically he said if I stayed on 17s it would be like driving "a pregnant duck". (His quote exactly).

I'm looking at putting Michlen Pilot Alpins on, and from what I've read they are one of the best "high-performance winter" tires on the market. They're asking about $1250 CDN for the tires, 16' steelies & install (tax inc.), but my buddy is gonna get them too so we're gonna try to swing a deal.

Anyways, If you're looking for something good for use in "real snow" (ie Canada) then the Pilots are a great way to go. Just on a side note, my other buddy has them on his 2003 Nissan Sentra Spec-V SE-R and he says they're the best tires he's ever used for winters.

[DetroitSP23]

Have you ever even driven in snow? (confused)

You want the tire as soft as possible in the snow, and the skinnier the better (for cutting through the snow) 17's in the snow is absolutely horrible, going down to 16's make's the situation a little better, but our cars are really screaming for 15" snow tires. I am looking at having a set of 15" steel wheels custom built with a larger dropwell (that is the smallest diameter portion of the rim on the inside) to fit over the large brakes. Will just make tire changes a bigger pain in the ass (the smaller the dropwell, the less clearance you have for mounting tires)

Although, I have admitted to myself that our 3's will never be good in the snow, I will have to leave ice racing to my Honda Civic with the 145/80/13 Blizzaks (first)

Don't forget the increase in # of potholes, both paved and dirt.

[DetroitSP23]

Nice find on the 195/55 - 16s but won't those be a little short?

[goldwing2000]

If you're replacing factory 16s (as somebody down the line was), 195/55-16 will work fine.

If you're replacing facdtory 17s, then yes, 195/60-16 would be better.

Unfortuntatly 195/60-16 doesn't seem to exist, so you have to use either a 205/55-16 or a 195/55-16.

[BrianG]

While attempting to find stupid steel wheels for a reasonable price, I came across this:

http://www.discounttiredirect.com/direct/findWheelsBySize.do?wd=16&bp=5-114.3*5-4.5*5-4.5%2F5&rw=

I had to search by wheel size specs rather than by car. $53 for OE Steel wheels. Not bad. From what I've read, the offset of stock wheels is 52mm. So, from the choice of 2 steelies, would 50 or 55 be preferable? Also, is this place a decent place to do business with?

I finally found a local place to get steel wheels, but they want $99 each for used wheels!

[trees]

i just used that site to do a price match at a store in my area. found some hankook winter tires on that site for $92 and the store matched it saved myself $15 a tire. How bad are !7" winter tires?

[BrianG]

i just used that site to do a price match at a store in my area. found some hankook winter tires on that site for $92 and the store matched it saved myself $15 a tire. How bad are !7" winter tires?

I am not exactly against 17" snow tires, but they seem to be more expensive than their 16" counterparts. I'm just trying to find a good deal on 16" rims so future snow tire purchases will not hurt my wallet as much. As for performance, the general consensus seems to be that 16" wheels allows for a tire with higher sidewall, which is more cushy for winter driving. If I could get away with $92 per tire locally using my stock 17's, then I'd do that since I plan to get some 18's and tires (with tax return $$$) for next summer.

[waltmcgee]

I am not exactly against 17" snow tires, but they seem to be more expensive than their 16" counterparts. I'm just trying to find a good deal on 16" rims so future snow tire purchases will not hurt my wallet as much. As for performance, the general consensus seems to be that 16" wheels allows for a tire with higher sidewall, which is more cushy for winter driving. If I could get away with $92 per tire locally using my stock 17's, then I'd do that since I plan to get some 18's and tires (with tax return $$$) for next summer.


check out these sites for tires...

www.tirerack.com or www.1010tires.com

just a few i found that do delivery, comparisons and packages...

[BrianG]

check out these sites for tires...

www.tirerack.com or www.1010tires.com

just a few i found that do delivery, comparisons and packages...

Yeah, I've checked out those places already. I just can't seem to find a 16" steel wheel and winter tire combo package for a reasonable price (~$600).

The salesman at a local Big-O tire place says he can come really close, if not under, my target price. I hope to find out more tomorrow or the next day.

[dnale]

I could probably get you a line on some 16" steel wheels (not great but steel wheels cheap.) Would you be interested? PM me.

[waltmcgee]

I could probably get you a line on some 16" steel wheels (not great but steel wheels cheap.) Would you be interested? PM me.

Too bad you guys arent in Canada....check out the prices here if you're looking for cheap winter tire/wheel packages....and remember this is in CDN$

Winter Tire Package (http://www.canadiantire.ca/assortments/dept_landing.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=14084743966 71100&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524443277116&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474396670271&bmUID=1129183631347&FOLDER<>browsePath=2534374303517494&FOLDER<>browsePath=2534374303517550&FOLDER<>browsePath=1408474396671100)

I'd never buy tires from this place, but i'm just shocked at the prices that i'm seeing thrown around the board for just steelies in comparison to full package prices here...almost be worthwile to start shipping them south...hahaha.... (cheers)

[goldwing2000]

http://images.canadiantire.ca/media/images/Template/English/winter-pkgs_560_575_en_49835.jpg

[BrianG]

http://images.canadiantire.ca/media/images/Template/English/winter-pkgs_560_575_en_49835.jpg

Where did you find those deals?

[dnale]

I think that's from a Canadian Tire website.

[BrianG]

Poo. They don't ship to USA (I called them). I bet some people on here could make a few $$$ if they were to assemble packages and ship them to us unfortunate US 3 drivers. ;)

[macpac5]

I have 15" Protege 5 wheels I was hoping would fit on a MAzda 3, any thoughts?

[DetroitSP23]

I have 15" Protege 5 wheels I was hoping would fit on a MAzda 3, any thoughts?

Depends if you have an s or an i.

[goldwing2000]

I think that's from a Canadian Tire website.

Yes, it is.

[waltmcgee]

Yes, it is.

sorry guys, yeah, its canadian aka. crappy tire....i mean they do have some pretty good deals, but i'm going to a "real" tire shop to get my winters....but for the "budget" tire shopper canadian tire has some great deals....

im just amazed that there is such a price difference between US & CDN tire prices

[Mike835]

Interesting comment about the Costco rims. You may be right, you may be wrong, I don't know. One thing I know is that I already went through a full winter season with them using Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2 winter tires. Last winter, here in Eastern Canada, we faced extreme temperature and weather conditions. No problems at all. Faced all conditions without any problems. And, they seem to spin OK, no steering shaking at high speed (tested at 170km/hr). Smooth riding and handling. So, not sure how they could be bad. I assume I have a good set.

Just bought 16 X 6.5, 5@4.5 Costco rims in Halifax yesterday at $54 ea +tx CND$. (# X42655) The dealer winter package for a '05 M3 Spt-GT includes rims and 205 60 16 Goodyear Ultra Grip Winter tires for $800+tx. I have located a deal on Goodrich Winter Slalom towards which I'm leaning. I agree that the Michelin X-Ice is a better tire but .....

I would be interested in comments on the dealer recommended tire size. Should I go to the 205 55 16?

Thanks, Mike

[MightyMouse]

I would be interested in comments on the dealer recommended tire size. Should I go to the 205 55 16?

Thanks, Mike

I tried the 205/60/16's, had problems rubbing on both rear tires using Blizzak WS-50's. Even at stock ride height. I am going to the proper 205/55/16 for this year, especially because the car is now lowered with H&R's. Blizzaks this year again of course...best winter tire out there IMHO, and I have tried almost everything, on the street and ice racing (without studs).

[Mike835]

Thanks for your reply Chris.

This is the first winter to put the car through and chasing down rims and tires has been a chore. (dollar for value...) After reading this thread and your reply together with the recommendation of the Owner Manual, I'm confused as to why the dealer would suggest the 60's. And your comment on the Blizzaks helps too.
Thanks

Mike

[goldwing2000]

I'm confused as to why the dealer would suggest the 60's.

Because they don't know the difference between a tire and a wheel of cheese.

Dealerships are not the great repository of automotive knowledge that some people seem to think they are.

[waltmcgee]

Because they don't know the difference between a tire and a wheel of cheese.

Dealerships are not the great repository of automotive knowledge that some people seem to think they are.

I couldnt agree with you more...I went into my service dept. and told the guy straight up "i went to a tire shop, and they offered me Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2's for this winter for $1200 tax inc., what can you guys do for me?" and the response?

"well we dont carry those tires, why dont you take a look at some of our winter tire packages, they start at $549 with these real nice goodyears"

Not wanting to be rude to my service manager i politely asked for a list of the tires they offered and then told him i'd get back to him....i swear they dont really care about the actual needs of the customers at times, just selling the tires they can make the biggest margin on....

i cant wait to see all the fools driving around this winter with their stock goodyears sliding around like a pregnant duck.... (deadhorse

[lelola]

I recently spoke to my dealership and their winter tire package includes 16" steelies and Cooper S/T2 tires for $950+GST.
Does anyone know anything about these tires? Are they any good?

[waltmcgee]

I recently spoke to my dealership and their winter tire package includes 16" steelies and Cooper S/T2 tires for $950+GST.
Does anyone know anything about these tires? Are they any good?

never heard of coopers before....for that price i'd consider taking a look at the Michelin X-Ice or for a bit more maybe the Alpin's....my roommate is putting X-Ice's on his (hah) 2003 VW Golf, and its going to be about 940 tax inc. installed

[Mike835]

I recently spoke to my dealership and their winter tire package includes 16" steelies and Cooper S/T2 tires for $950+GST.
Does anyone know anything about these tires? Are they any good?


A Coast Tire shop in the Halifax area offered the package price of rims, Cooper W-Master ST-2, balancing etc. for $842 including tax. The tires were $96.16/ea. ( Rims were about $70.)

They looked like good tires but only the experienced can offer a credible answer on that front.

Just had those Costco rims mounted with 205/55/16 Goodrich Winter Slaloms which look more rugged than the Cooper at a tire shop. I am learning to agree with the comments about the dealers more and more. The Blizzaks were a little more pricey than I wanted to go considering the driving that will be required is by choice and not necessity.

The 205/50/17 have an OD of about 25.1", the recommended 205/60/16's an OD of about 25.7" and the 205/55/16's and OD of 24.9". The spedometer won't be off as much as with the 60's ! Thanks for your comments - they helped.

No pregnant ducks in my driveway ... I hope.

Bring on the snow and the ski season !! We have Wilma + Alpha on the doorstep tonight.

[waltmcgee]

The 205/50/17 have an OD of about 25.1", the recommended 205/60/16's an OD of about 25.7" and the 205/55/16's and OD of 24.9". The spedometer won't be off as much as with the 60's ! Thanks for your comments - they helped.



My understanding is you want to keep your OD as close to the OEM tire, otherwise you can REALLY screw the computer systems in your car....

thats what the guy in my tire shop told me! (boom07)

[Mike835]

never heard of coopers before....for that price i'd consider taking a look at the Michelin X-Ice or for a bit more maybe the Alpin's....my roommate is putting X-Ice's on his (hah) 2003 VW Golf, and its going to be about 940 tax inc. installed

The X- Ice would be my first choice - I'm just too cheap to put out the $$$ But I agree for that price go to the X-ice. Had some Alpin's on a Cirrus a few years back and they were phenominal - just not as expensive.

The Costco price in Halifax on the 205/55/16 X-ice is $177 ec.+ tax. Mounting included

[goldwing2000]

My understanding is you want to keep your OD as close to the OEM tire, otherwise you can REALLY screw the computer systems in your car....

thats what the guy in my tire shop told me! (boom07)

Exactly right. And if you have to deviate, it's better to go shorter than taller. Taller tires mean your speedo reads too slow and you're more likely to get a ticket. (notcool)

[lelola]

never heard of coopers before....for that price i'd consider taking a look at the Michelin X-Ice or for a bit more maybe the Alpin's....my roommate is putting X-Ice's on his (hah) 2003 VW Golf, and its going to be about 940 tax inc. installed


I called around to some of the tire shops here and found out that the Michelin X-Ice tires are about $200 each (eek2) (incl. tax, installed). So if I go with those, I'm looking at almost $1200 for tires and rims...

[waltmcgee]

I called around to some of the tire shops here and found out that the Michelin X-Ice tires are about $200 each (eek2) (incl. tax, installed). So if I go with those, I'm looking at almost $1200 for tires and rims...


WOW...thats pricey...thats what i'm paying for my Alpin's

[MightyMouse]

Exactly right. And if you have to deviate, it's better to go shorter than taller. Taller tires mean your speedo reads too slow and you're more likely to get a ticket. (notcool)


Actually, it is not too bad to go a little higher on the speedo. Factory speedo's are allowed to read high by as much as 11%. Your tires will never be off by that much. But I do agree with having the tires as close as possible.

[waltmcgee]

Actually, it is not too bad to go a little higher on the speedo. Factory speedo's are allowed to read high by as much as 11%. Your tires will never be off by that much. But I do agree with having the tires as close as possible.

its not only the speedo that becomes an issue though, becuase it can cause irregularities in your computer systems which could cause them to reset to a "safety" mode which could serious impact your performance...at least thats how it was explained to me...

[lelola]

I've found another winter tire package from Mazda...
$899+GST for 16" steels and Toyo Garit H/T tires.

I've read that these tires are pretty good on snow & ice (please correct me if I'm wrong) but how are they on dry pavement?

[waltmcgee]

I've found another winter tire package from Mazda...
$899+GST for 16" steels and Toyo Garit H/T tires.

I've read that these tires are pretty good on snow & ice (please correct me if I'm wrong) but how are they on dry pavement?

here (http://www.tirerack.com)

an excellent place to do tire comparisons...not sure if they have that one, but they do have a wide selection

[goldwing2000]

its not only the speedo that becomes an issue though, becuase it can cause irregularities in your computer systems which could cause them to reset to a "safety" mode which could serious impact your performance...at least thats how it was explained to me...

Somehow I doubt that. I think whoever told you that was either yanking your chain or completely clueless. Your computer doesn't care what size tires you have. It reads everything at the hubs or the transmission, so the distance between the axle and the road is irrelevant, as far as it is concerned. For any tire to have any kind of serious impact on performance, it would have to be radically different in size. Like multiple inches difference.

[waltmcgee]

Somehow I doubt that. I think whoever told you that was either yanking your chain or completely clueless. Your computer doesn't care what size tires you have. It reads everything at the hubs or the transmission, so the distance between the axle and the road is irrelevant, as far as it is concerned. For any tire to have any kind of serious impact on performance, it would have to be radically different in size. Like multiple inches difference.


that makes more sense now that i think about it...but it would still have an impact on overall gas milage, and probably throw the odometer out of wack too, no?

[goldwing2000]

that makes more sense now that i think about it...but it would still have an impact on overall gas milage, and probably throw the odometer out of wack too, no?

Definitely. Speedo out of whack=Odo out of whack.
And larger tires take more power to get them rolling because it decreases the effectivness of your axle ratio.

[mtheoro]

I called around to some of the tire shops here and found out that the Michelin X-Ice tires are about $200 each (eek2) (incl. tax, installed). So if I go with those, I'm looking at almost $1200 for tires and rims...

If you're in Edmonton, try Weber Motors, they have 16" steel rims and X-Ice for $1025CAD, everything included. There are no other options for the tire however. I would have preffered Alpine or Blizzak but they don't have them. Any opinions on how good X-Ice are? Is it worth the upgrade to Blizzak or Alpine?

[MightyMouse]

If you're in Edmonton, try Weber Motors, they have 16" steel rims and X-Ice for $1025CAD, everything included. There are no other options for the tire however. I would have preffered Alpine or Blizzak but they don't have them. Any opinions on how good X-Ice are? Is it worth the upgrade to Blizzak or Alpine?

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/bs_blizzak_revo1.jsp

I am taking off my 205/6016 Blizzak WS-50's and putting on 205/55/16 Blizzak REVO1's.

[lelola]

If you're in Edmonton, try Weber Motors, they have 16" steel rims and X-Ice for $1025CAD, everything included. There are no other options for the tire however. I would have preffered Alpine or Blizzak but they don't have them. Any opinions on how good X-Ice are? Is it worth the upgrade to Blizzak or Alpine?


Thanks anyways. I got myself some Toyo Garit H/Ts & 16" steels....
Just need a little snow now to test them out...

[mtheoro]

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/bs_blizzak_revo1.jsp

I am taking off my 205/6016 Blizzak WS-50's and putting on 205/55/16 Blizzak REVO1's.

Thanks for the link. I was wondering if the Q rating is going to be a problem for these tires on dry roads. For example, how would they behave if you drive 130km/h on a dry highway, will they wear pretty fast? Is it worth to upgrade to a H or V rated winter tires? And conversly, do the H and V rated tires come at the expense of a poorer ice/snow performance? My main concern at the moment is to decide between the Q ratinga and a H or V rating.
Another question: I am downsizing form 17" to 16" rims for the winter. I assume the rims that come form the dealer are fine, after all they know what rims fit on the car. What if I go to Kalotire or Tire Warehouse or a shop like that. Will they know the proper 16" rims for a Mazda3? I am asking these because I looked on tirerack.com and I couldn't find 16" rims with the EXACT specifications (offset, etc...) as the stock rims (posted somewhere on this website). I honestly don't know much about these specifications, I guess it is important to be close to the recommendations, but what is an acceptable margin of error?
To make a long story short: will a good tire shop know the right rims for my car?

Thanks a lot for your help and sorry for (eventual) bad english.

[mtheoro]

Thanks anyways. I got myself some Toyo Garit H/Ts & 16" steels....
Just need a little snow now to test them out...

What shop did you go to? And how much was it?

Thanks!

[lelola]

What shop did you go to? And how much was it?

Thanks!


I got them from Kramer Mazda in Calgary. I live in Lethbridge and I called every tire place around here (including my dealer) but Kramer seemed to have the best deal. I paid $986 + some change including all taxes ($899 without) for the tires & rims. But I think the price went up by $100 as of Nov. 1....

[BrianG]

Well, screw it. I just went out and got Blizzaks at a local tire shop (~$700 after mounting and taxes :() to fit the stock alloys and will just get nice 18" rims/tires come tax time. I figure about $1500 complete will get me some decent tires and rims - if not, maybe I'll go down to 17" rims again.

[tsunami]

yeah 1500 will get you some nice 18' wheels and some decent rubber... i have been lookin at the konig site a lot lately... nice lookin wheels!!!

[ZoomVT]

yeah that what i did last winter. i just bought some ok winter tires (i used to drive with bold summer tires without a problem) and put them on my stock 16s. this summer i bought a nice set of 18" and good rubber.

[Mike835]

Now that we have our rims and tires could someone tell me where the post was about the proper fit of the rim to the hub. The hub measures about 67.16 mm and the hole in my rims measures about 73 mm. That leave a clearance of almost 1/10" between the rim centre hole and the hub. The studs are carrying the load ! And actually the stud threads may be overloaded. Are there rim to hub spacers available at the aftermarket shops? The rims I have are those that were listed for the M3 but that clearance seem a bit excessive to me. Thanks...

[BrianG]

yeah that what i did last winter. i just bought some ok winter tires (i used to drive with bold summer tires without a problem) and put them on my stock 16s. this summer i bought a nice set of 18" and good rubber.

I wish I had 16's as stock rim size! The difference in price between 16 and 17 inch Blizzaks is about $30 per tire ($107 for 16" rims, $135 for 17" rims according to tirerack.com). It would have saved me around $120. That's why I was trying to find some cheap 16" steel rims.

[ILoveMyMazda3GT]

I was thinking of buying (205/55-16) a set of one of the following:

1) Pirelli Winter Carvers "T" rated
2) Michelin X-Ice "Q" rated
3) Toyo Garit "H" rated.

Any comments? Anybody have the Pirellis on last year? Is the "q" rating pm the Michelins to low?

[mtheoro]

I was thinking of buying (205/55-16) a set of one of the following:

1) Pirelli Winter Carvers "T" rated
2) Michelin X-Ice "Q" rated
3) Toyo Garit "H" rated.

Any comments? Anybody have the Pirellis on last year? Is the "q" rating pm the Michelins to low?

I went for the X-Ice (best pricing I could find). If your driving is mostly city I don't think Q-rating should be a problem. They're ok for the highway as well, unless you plan to speed as a maniac. If you want better performance on dry (at the expense of slightly less on snow and ice) go for a H rated, like Blizzak L-25.

[ILoveMyMazda3GT]

Hey guys, I've read on Canadian Consumer Reports that the "Viking SnowTech" is rated 2nd overall and it is "H" rated in the Mazda3 sizes!!

Its a mush cheaper tire to buy than the X-ICE (the only tire to beat it) at around $95.

To me, looking at all the ratings, it looks like the Viking (made my Continental) would be a better Tire all around for the GTA area, compared to the X-ICE. We get a lot of dry, just wet and then wet slush.

[MightyMouse]

To me, looking at all the ratings, it looks like the Viking (made my Continental) .

Now is it made by Continental, or is it a Continental brand tire? Big difference. All of Canadian Tire's tires are made by Goodyear and Michelin, but I still wouldn't put them on my car. Just becuause one company makes them does not mean it is made to the same standards as their own branded tires.

[ILoveMyMazda3GT]

Now is it made by Continental, or is it a Continental brand tire? Big difference. All of Canadian Tire's tires are made by Goodyear and Michelin, but I still wouldn't put them on my car. Just becuause one company makes them does not mean it is made to the same standards as their own branded tires.

But you can't deny the reviews by Canadian Consumer. We dont drive in a lot of snow in the GTA. A few days are bad but mostly a lot of dry or slush. I try to keep an open mind about brands and just look at the performance.

Look around on the web for them and you'll see what I mean.

[Mike835]

All of Canadian Tire's tires are made by Goodyear and Michelin, ....


That's interesting because I asked a local CTC tire counter guy who made the Nordic Ice Track tries and he answered that Michelin did - then I called another CTC and was told that a Uniroyal plant near Mexico made them ... So who really does make them? Right now the vote is 2 for Michelin; and one for Uniroyal. My answers came from the counter people. I expect your source may be more reliable.

[MightyMouse]

That's interesting because I asked a local CTC tire counter guy who made the Nordic Ice Track tries and he answered that Michelin did - then I called another CTC and was told that a Uniroyal plant near Mexico made them ... So who really does make them? Right now the vote is 2 for Michelin; and one for Uniroyal. My answers came from the counter people. I expect your source may be more reliable.

I used to work there a LONG time ago, and their manufacturers would change every once in a while. Sometimes you would see the exact same tire made by two different companies....it all depends on who bid the lowest price that month I guess.

[waltmcgee]

got my michelin pilot alpins on, they're great, got them filled with nitrogen as well for an extra $5/tire...figure its worth it....snow just started falling tonight, cant wait to see the difference!!

[MightyMouse]

Just put on the Blizzak REVO1's (205/55/16) Amazing tire. Great at high speed and cornering still too, exactly opposite of the WS-50's, and they are still the multicell compound. I have to keep reminding myself that I am not on the summer tires. Highly recommended, as long as you can get over the sticker shock on the price.....they ain't cheap. I paid about $800 Cdn for just the 4 tires (but I work at a dealer and get them near cost) I think they normally sell for about $230/ea Cdn.

[CZ-75]

Just becuause one company makes them does not mean it is made to the same standards as their own branded tires.

You can't get much worse than the OEM Michelins Honda insists on using and they actually say "MICHELIN" on them.

[Let_It_Ride]

My wife has the 2004 Mazda 3 Sport GS with the 16” alloy wheels and I am thinking about buying the Nordic Ice Track tires P205/55R16 along with the 16” steel rims… In two years we want to buy the Mazda 5 GT model with the 17” alloy wheels, 205/50R17 all-season tires… does anybody see an issue with using the Nordic Ice Track tires P205/55R16 along with the 16” steel rims that I am going to get for the Mazda 3.

[payne]

Thats the size that the Mazda dealerships are selling here for the M3 GT. So i dont think there will be a problem.

[waltmcgee]

My wife has the 2004 Mazda 3 Sport GS with the 16” alloy wheels and I am thinking about buying the Nordic Ice Track tires P205/55R16 along with the 16” steel rims… In two years we want to buy the Mazda 5 GT model with the 17” alloy wheels, 205/50R17 all-season tires… does anybody see an issue with using the Nordic Ice Track tires P205/55R16 along with the 16” steel rims that I am going to get for the Mazda 3.


You're actually supposed to drop a tire size, I have the 05 GT Sport with 17" rims, and this winter i have P205/55R16's on it right now. You're gonna be good to go my friend! (boom07)

[Let_It_Ride]

You're actually supposed to drop a tire size, I have the 05 GT Sport with 17" rims, and this winter i have P205/55R16's on it right now. You're gonna be good to go my friend! (boom07)

Thanks very much for your reply... I'm going to make the purchase this weekend.

[mmathias]

this might be a dumb question, but...is there any reason why I wouldn't just buy a set of 2 16" steels with winter tires and throw them on the front?

50% off what would be a $900 package sounds good to me!

[FTD]

I would like to get in to the mix too. I have already know which tire size I would like to run, I just need someone to confirm that the stock P5 wheels will not rub on the Mazda 3s 5 door and clear the brakes.
The stock p5 wheels I am interested in are 16x6 5x114.3 +50 offset, as opposed to the stock 3 wheels which are 17x6.5 5x114.3 +52.5 offset. Has anyone run these on the 3s? If so did clear the brakes and/or rub with 205/55-16's?

Thanks!

[FTD]

this might be a dumb question, but...is there any reason why I wouldn't just buy a set of 2 16" steels with winter tires and throw them on the front?

50% off what would be a $900 package sounds good to me!

Not a dumb question, but this would NOT be a good idea. The manufactures recommend that you run a complete set of their winter tires for good reason.

If you have ever run good winter tires you would know how much more grip they have on ice and snow. If you were to add that much grip to the front and have a lower grip level in the rear your car would be VERY tail happy. Snap oversteer waiting to happen. I had a friend that put his car into a ditch this way. He was running late for work, needed to swap to his winter tires and tried to get away with the fronts only. He is a very proficient driver and he couldn't keep it out of the ditch even though he was driving very slowly. It wasn't worth the tow truck bill!

It is clear cut if you run winter tires run them at all 4 corners.

[MightyMouse]

this might be a dumb question, but...is there any reason why I wouldn't just buy a set of 2 16" steels with winter tires and throw them on the front?

50% off what would be a $900 package sounds good to me!

Really bad idea. Lots of traction on the front, no traction on the rear. If you even think of lifting off the gas, or touch the brakes, and you are not going perfectly straight....see ya later, you are going around and around. You are bettter off (safety wise at least) just sticking with the four all seasons. This is why Costco will NOT install new tires on the front only, even in the summer.

[DetroitSP23]

I would like to get in to the mix too. I have already know which tire size I would like to run, I just need someone to confirm that the stock P5 wheels will not rub on the Mazda 3s 5 door and clear the brakes.
The stock p5 wheels I am interested in are 16x6 5x114.3 +50 offset, as opposed to the stock 3 wheels which are 17x6.5 5x114.3 +52.5 offset. Has anyone run these on the 3s? If so did clear the brakes and/or rub with 205/55-16's?

Thanks!

I've heard of others using P5 wheels on the 3. Tsunami says he got a set. I'm looking for a set too. If you look at the calculator on 1010tire.com, you'll see you gain clearance on both sides.

http://www.1010tire.com/WheelOffsetCalculator.asp

[FTD]

I've heard of others using P5 wheels on the 3. Tsunami says he got a set. I'm looking for a set too. If you look at the calculator on 1010tire.com, you'll see you gain clearance on both sides.

http://www.1010tire.com/WheelOffsetCalculator.asp

Thanks for the calculator. I am confident that the width and offset will work, but I have no way of knowing if the wheels will clear the larger brakes on the 3s. Does Tsunami have a 3s?

Thanks for the response!

[DetroitSP23]

Thanks for the calculator. I am confident that the width and offset will work, but I have no way of knowing if the wheels will clear the larger brakes on the 3s. Does Tsunami have a 3s?

Thanks for the response!

Everything on this site and elsewhere tells me that 16" wheels will clear the brakes on the 3s. No personal experience, but based on that I'm going forward.

[ZoomVT]

Everything on this site and elsewhere tells me that 16" wheels will clear the brakes on the 3s. No personal experience, but based on that I'm going forward.

i have a 3s sedan and it came with 16" stock. i dont know what the offset is though so i dont know if your wheels will fit.
and yes, tsunami has a 3s hatch

[DetroitSP23]

i have a 3s sedan and it came with 16" stock. i dont know what the offset is though so i dont know if your wheels will fit.
and yes, tsunami has a 3s hatch

The 15s, 16s, and 17s on the 3 all have the same offset...52.5mm, the 15s just won't fit on the 3s.

Check out the tire&wheel sticky...

[FTD]

i have a 3s sedan and it came with 16" stock. i dont know what the offset is though so i dont know if your wheels will fit.
and yes, tsunami has a 3s hatch

Cool, thanks for the help. It is certain then the P5 wheels will fit on the 3s! I hope to get a set of them soon.

[MightyMouse]

Anyone know if 205/60 - 16s will fit, or only 55s?

What was the offset on those steelies from Costco?

Read the rest of the thread....the 205/60's will rub.

[Viking3]

here is mine, oem mazda6 wheels. 205/55R16, lowered abut 2" and no rubbing :)

http://www.augnablik.is/data/500/351mazdamps3_004-med.jpg