Tire Question - Snow Tires - 15" Rims
 

Hi all. Does anyone know if the 2006 Sonata, which comes with 16" OEM wheels/rims, can use a 15" rim for snow tire use? Hyundai does not seem to know and their response is that I would have to bring it to a dealer to see if the 15" rims clear the brake calipers. Has anyone been able to successfully mount 15" rims onto a 2006 Sonata?

Thanks.

RE: Tire Question - Snow Tires - 15" Rims
 

Go to tirerack.com and plug all your info in. It will tell you that you should be able to put 15" snow tires on. I just put 16" Nokian RSI snow tires on mine and what a difference. I have the 17" as OEM though. Purching from the tirerack is a snap too if you can or know someone who can put them on. They come mounted, balanced with wheel covers...just toss them on your car and you are ready to roll...

RE: Tire Question - Snow Tires - 15" Rims
 

Be careful downsizing the rims. The dealer is right about the brake calipers. Depending on the rim design and vehicle trim/option packages, it might not fit over the brake calipers. I'd phone tire rack and see what your options would be. I'd love to get 15" rims and some good off-road rubber for the winter, but no 15" wheels will clear my front brakes.

If your sonata's OEM wheels are steel with wheelcovers you'd be almost better off getting a set of 16" winter tires and have them installed on your current wheels and store your OE tires. Mounting and dismounting twice a year on alloy rims isn't recommended as they'll get scratched more than necessary.

RE: Tire Question - Snow Tires - 15" Rims
 

Thanks guys. Likely best to souce some steelies + rubber in the 16" variety.