Can I Put Bigger Tires on My Vehicle?

January 11, 2021

There are many benefits to installing larger wheels on a vehicle. From improved traction, more control, and added appearance, large tires have become a new trend on a variety of vehicles.  Before you buy that new set of wheels, there are a few things you should know about putting bigger tires Greenville on a car from Pugh’s Tire and Service Center.  

Bigger Tires, Bigger Wheels, What’s the Difference?

At Pugh’s Tire and Service Center, while we recommend that vehicle owners follow the manufacturer's guidelines on tire sizing and selection, we also understand and support drivers who choose to deviate from these suggestions to enhance their performance or personal style. Before making a decision, we encourage you to understand the available options on how to alter your car and the effect it can have on your driving experience. There are two routes one can take when upgrading your wheels and tires; plus-sizing and up-sizing. 

  • Plus-Sizing in simple terms, keeps the total diameter of your wheel and tire the same as it originally was. Plus sizing has no impact on the ground clearance or speedometer, and in some cases can enhance your vehicle’s cornering and handling performance capabilities. While it can provide more ground coverage, most choose this tire option solely for appearance. 
  • Up-Sizing, on the other hand, does increase your tire diameter by installing wider and or thicker tires on wheels that are the same size or bigger than your original ones. Doing this, you gain a few inches in height, an altered appearance, and can achieve a style that is very common for trucks and larger vehicles. Additionally, up-sizing impacts the speedometer, fuel economy, and can place stress on the powertrain and brakes. If installed incorrectly, up-sized tires may also rub the wheel well, brake calipers, or vehicle frame, and could potentially wear down any parts they grind against. 

In either situation, the professionals at Pugh’s Tire and Service Center Washington tire shop strongly recommend visiting one of our locations to receive an expert's advice on which size and type of tires Greenville you should transition into. 

Pros and Cons of Bigger Tires Greenville 

While the final decision to size up is solely based on preference, here are a few pros and cons about doing so. 

Pros: 

  • Increased clearance
  • Better road performance
  • Personalization 
  • Improved traction
  • Increased breaking

Cons: 

  • Additional costs, adjustments, and recalibrations
  • Adjusted fuel economy
  • Altered handling and driving feel
  • Potential voided warranty
  • Possible damage to the tires and other parts of the vehicle

If you are in the market to upgrade your vehicle’s tires but are not sure where to start, head to Pugh’s Tire and Service Center, your local Greenville and Washington tire shop. Our experienced staff members are prepared to steer you in the best direction. From plus-sizing, off-roading tires Greenville, and everything in between, we’ll help you pick out the right size, type, and tread style for your vehicle. Contact us today.