changing Rav4 tire sizes

[nmorgan]

Hi,
I have a Toyota Rav4 (97) front wheel drive only. It handles very poorly in snow and ice, and I can't find a snow tire to fit. The size is 215/70/S16. Would it hurt to change to size tire so that I can put on the snow tires? thanks for your help,

Nancy

[Silver Streak]

Any tire shop should be able to find you that tire size in winter tires. Are you planning on buying online? Check these sites, just plug in your vehicle or tire size, and some brand name tires will pop up. For instance, Toyo makes Observe G0-2s in your size, and those are a great tire.

www.tirerack.com
www.1010tires.com

It won't hurt to change the tire size, but just make sure the diameter of it is within 1% of your old tire. This is ensure that your speedo isn't thrown off, and that your ABS (if you have it) works correctly. Try this site for other sizes.

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

[Silver Streak]

You can also use 215/75/15 if you buy some steel rims for your Rav as well. That'll save money in the long run.

[nmorgan]

Thank you Henry,

I really appreciate those sites. I did find a size in the Michelin Latitude X-ice size 215/70Q R16. I don't know why my local tire shop couldn't. I will keep both sites for future reference. Thanks again, Nancy