Technical Winter wheels and tyres

[ivantate]

I am sticking to my word, after having snow 2 years running I am buying some winter tyres for the Idea. Although not as good as the Panda its snow performance is fine, but the added stopping and handling performance are a good thing to have.

Tyres are being shipped from mytyres at the moment so I was going to have a hunt around for some wheels to put them on. If not I can find any I dont mind having them on the original wheels as 2 of the tyres are nearly finished.
Went for 185/65R15 which are slightly different to the original 195/60R15 but the slight reduction in width is a good thing in water/snow.

Idea wheels will be pretty thin on the ground so I was going to look for Bravos/Bravas etc to find a set. If I can find a Punto with 15" wheels I guess they will be alloys so would be ££ or need a refurb.

Has anyone taken the wheels off another Fiat successfully? (I know the Multipla offset is quite different)

 

[ivantate]

Popped a wheel off to check the dimensions and confirm a rear shock mount was on its way out (just starting to knock a bit so thats why I took that wheel off).

6Jx15H2-40. I am guessing that means the offset is ET40, will go and check the local scrappies tomorrow for wheels.

 

[tipouno]

There is an article in the Telegraph today reporting that Insurers are loading premiums by as much as 20% for motorists fitting winter tyres. Sorry - I don't know how to create a link to the article but it's by David Williams. Tyresafe state winter tyres are a legal requirement in other countries and have proven to reduce stopping distance by a significant amount when compared to the standard rubber.

 

[Hellcat]

Your user manual will have details of winter tyres. Winter tyres are not a modification from manufacturers specification - just like fitting Pirelli instead of Continental.

 

[ivantate]

I think if you phone and discuss it with the insurance company then they will charge a bit for a change and also an admin fee.

Had the tyres fitted yesterday and they fit fine even with a minor change in dimensions. I would say the steering actually feels better than with the budget tyres that came with the car.

Will argue the toss with the insurance company if we need to make a claim at any time, for now i am happy we have done all we can to reduce the chances of needing to claim. In that respect the tyres are uk bought and ftted, have the correct speed and load ratings and have plenty of legal tread depth.