…I know that the thinner profile would be somewhat better in snow, but does anyone think there is a concern with the weight of the EV in getting a thinner tire?...

You’re mixing wheel diameter, profile (sidewall height), and width in your sentences, so it’s tough to tell exactly what you’re asking. I’m sure you’ve seen that increased sidewall height (smaller wheel diameter given the same overall tire size, or outer diameter, which is also given in rotations per mile) is better in winter to protect the rim and accommodate potholes better, but if you’re thinking a thinner tire would be better in winter/snow, I’d argue that given the increased weight of BEV‘s the width should remain the same. Just look for XL (high load) tires to accommodate the weight.

 

Ah yes, I need to be more precise. Apologies. I was referring to the width of the tire, which was what was being offered by Tire Rack.

However, I am looking, and I made a mistate--they offer only widths of 17" 18" and 20". Guess I need to do some research to see what other EV owners have done.

 

Ah yes, I need to be more precise. Apologies. I was referring to the width of the tire, which was what was being offered by Tire Rack.

However, I am looking, and I made a mistate--they offer only widths of 17" 18" and 20". Guess I need to do some research to see what other EV owners have done.

That's the wheel diameter. The tire width is the first part of the tire size identifier.

Tire Size Explained: What the Numbers Mean | Les Schwab

Everything you need to know about tire sizes and how to understand what the numbers on the sidewall mean. See our helpful sizing charts.

www.lesschwab.com

 

As I mentioned in my original post, for my Equinox EV 2LT, Tire Rack only gives options for 17", 18", and 19" wheels. If I go with a set of tires on wheels, I am looking at the Blizzak DM-V2 on a set of 18" wheels with +45 mm offset.

Here is a comparison with my current tires, and it gives me pause:

I am wondering about instead just getting new winter tires that will fit my current 19" wheels, and paying to have them installed--at least this year.

It's less expensive overall and easier to get a set of tires mounted on wheels (did this with our Subie for many winters), but I am leary about not using the 19" wheels.

Any thoughts?

 

As I mentioned in my original post, for my Equinox EV 2LT, Tire Rack only gives options for 17", 18", and 19" wheels. If I go with a set of tires on wheels, I am looking at the Blizzak DM-V2 on a set of 18" wheels with +45 mm offset.

Here is a comparison with my current tires, and it gives me pause:

View attachment 3468

I am wondering about instead just getting new winter tires that will fit my current 19" wheels, and paying to have them installed--at least this year.

It's less expensive overall and easier to get a set of tires mounted on wheels (did this with our Subie for many winters), but I am leary about not using the 19" wheels.

Any thoughts?

2LT tires are 245/55R19, not 255/60R19. Are you sure about your tire size?

 

I'd choose 19" wheels, ExtraSharky. YMMV.

 

55, not 60 for aspect ratio.

 

Clearly I suck at this. So in that case, it seems that the 18" wheels should work fine. There is negligable difference in revs per mile. What else am I missing here?

 

it seems that the 18" wheels should work fine.

Might be a tight fit around the calipers, other's have said they should work.

 

I would be surprised if there's any difference in handling or ride between an 18" and a 19" winter tire. The 1/2 inch of sidewall height might save your rim from hitting a curb, but it's pretty minor so maybe not.

The tires are cheaper, but not wildly so. But I can get Fast Replica "Chevy" wheels in 18" and save vs actual Chevy wheels. I looked for salvage wheels (certain years of Traverse and Blazer will fit) and there weren't many to be had in my province.

Calipers are listed as 17", so despite what tire rack might say I doubt 17's would clear. But using the most accurate instrument known to humankind (my eye), I figure it'll work with 18's.

 

I purchased on facebook market place a set of Blazer 18" tires and wheels that were very new take off from a 2021 Blazer and will put them on in November. These are only 235x65 but they look the same diameter when next to the 21" I have on the Equinox. They are not snow tires but have a much deeper tread and I won't have to worry about ruining the black 21" wheels. I don't do a lot of winter driving as I go to Florida for part of the winter. Wish me luck.

 

I am envious of your wheels! I lucked out on some flawless takeoff 16" alloys for my Bolt, but haven't had any such luck with the Equinox. Running the tire size numbers, 235/65R18 is very slightly larger diameter than the stock tires, and should work well.

Edit: no promises on the tire compound, just that the size will work (235/60R18's also seem to have a bit higher load rating). Best of luck!

 

Did this size work well for you?

 

Thank you. This is good to know. Did you run EV rated tires on the 18s right away? I'm buying a set with tires already on the 18s from the ICE blazer. I'm also deciding if I should swap the 18s and 21s out seasonally as I'm in Wisconsin. I just hear 18s are a little more efficient and like you said have better ride quality.

 

I charge at home fairly inexpensively, so I really don't worry about efficiency. I will keep running the 21s in the good weather in Michigan. I also did not want to damage the 21s in the winter with all the potholes or if hit a curb, for future resale value. My guess is if you mess up a 21" rim it is going to cost over $1200 to replace. But I like the black look on my RS AWD.

You will need new tire sensors as the ice blazer tires have a different sensor. You will get a warning light each time you start the car. It can be turned off with one of the toggle switches on the steering wheel.

Also the only time I try to drive more efficiently is on a long trip to northern Michigan. Otherwise I drive the speed limit or as the traffic flows

 

I appreciate your insight! Good points. I'll likely hold on to the 21s. Again, thank you.

 

I'm staying with my 21's as well unless or until I need to repair or replace them

P.S. Vin.Ambro, a friendly reminder to click your Avatar on top right of webpage. Check your messages in Conversations. Your account will be suspended tomorrow unless action is taken.

 

Dude I promise I tried multiple times it won't work from my phone. Next time I'm on my computer I'll try it. If it's really that critical suspend my account then until I can fix it.