Replacing 2018 Honda Civic 215/55/R16 Rims and Tires with 2015 Honda Accord 215/55/R17
Are you considering swapping out the 215/55/R16 tires and rims from your 2018 Honda Civic with the 215/55/R17 rims and tires from a 2015 Honda Accord? You can achieve this, but there are a few important considerations you should take into account. Here's everything you need to know before proceeding with the swap.
Bolt Pattern
The first thing to verify is the bolt pattern of the rims. The bolt pattern of the 2018 Honda Civic is typically 5x114.3 mm, which is the same as the 2015 Honda Accord. However, it's always a good idea to double-check to ensure compatibility. If the bolt pattern doesn’t match, you may need to consider changing the rims.
Offset and Clearance
For the offset and clearance, it's crucial to check if the offset of the Accord's rims is compatible with the Civic. Even though the offset may be similar, a significant difference could impact the vehicle's handling and clearance. Additionally, ensure that there is enough clearance in the wheel wells for the larger 215/55/R17 tires and rims. Misalignment can lead to rubbing and damage.
Tire Diameter and Speedometer Accuracy
The overall diameter of the 215/55/R17 tires will be slightly larger than that of the 215/55/R16 tires, which can affect the speedometer readings. According to Honda specifications, the correct tire size for the Civic is 215/50R17, which is slightly different from the 215/55/R17 you are considering. This will result in a very minor adjustment in your speed readings, but it's important to be aware of the potential implications.
Replacing with slightly taller tires can also affect handling and ride comfort. It may lead to a change in the car's suspension setup and handling characteristics, including altering the ride quality and potentially impacting performance.
Legal and Warranty Considerations
Before making the switch, check for any legal restrictions or warranty implications associated with changing tire sizes on your vehicle. Some manufacturers have specific guidelines that need to be followed to maintain your warranty coverage.
Being aware of these factors will help ensure a smooth and safe transition. It's advisable to consult with a tire or automotive expert to confirm compatibility and safety. If all the factors align, you should be able to make the swap without major issues.
Additional Considerations
It's worth noting that the 215/50R17 tires specified by Honda for the Civic would result in only a very small difference in your speedometer reading. However, this minor change might affect your intended turning and cornering responsiveness. If these factors are not a significant concern, you can go ahead with the swap.
On the other hand, if you are concerned about the minor speedometer discrepancy and the potential tire scraping against the quarter panel or fender, it might be better to use the rims from the Civic EX-L, which have 215/50R17 tires. The Accord tires are approximately an inch wider in diameter than the Civic tires, so this could mitigate the concerns.
Final Thoughts
Swapping tires and rims can be a great way to enhance your vehicle's performance. However, it's crucial to understand the potential impacts on speedometer accuracy, handling, and clearance. By considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision that ensures both safety and satisfaction with the end result.