hitsofmiss

I bought '03 SC430 about 2 yrs back. I've already replaced the wheels/tires with used 18" set about a years back & they've started corroding.

I'll need a new set of tires pretty soon. Read somewhere in the forum that instead of 18", 17" tire offers much cushiony ride, are cheaper & lasts longer. Is that true?

1) If yes, which size suits best? Is it 245x45x17 or 225x45x17 or something else?
2) Which brand wheels & tires do you recommend? I currently have Bridgestone but in all my previous cars, I used Michelin. And I'm big on quality.
3) Is there any impact on the performance or any other disadvantages?
4) I've seen pics of G-Spyder but I'm not sure if it is available in 17".
5) Where to get them cheap?

Thank you all!

aldfaly

the stoke wheels come with 18 inch x 8 with a tire size of 245/40/18
as i see:
best tires are continental or yokohama ADVAN
if you can afford the runflat you can go for the michelin

texsexlex

iTrader: (3)

....I don't think there is truly an answer for which wheel is better for the Sc. The car was designed or fitted with 18in wheels in mind. Will a 17in wheel fit & ride better....most definitely,but it will depend on your sizing. I can't recall the member,but he has pics of his Sc with 17in wheels posted here on the forum.Now picking a brand is another whole subject...lol....I think that is more of a personal preference than anything...just my opinion

hitsofmiss

I went to Costco & they refused to replace the 18" with 17" wheels or non-manufacture recommended sized tires. They strongly discouraged me & told me that it's against the law. Another guy waiting for his car mentioned that it will mess up my suspension & will have lot of other issues.

Is it really true?

Coleroad

No it won't damage your car. Just go to discount tire or some independent tire shop they are mor mod friendly. They don't have corporate rules to go by. That's just like going from RFT tires to non RFT tires. Some shops won't do it for you.

texsexlex

iTrader: (3)

....some big chain stores won't do it,because they have guidelines & don't want any type of liabilities. I would try some of the "indy" & smaller tire shops to get better information on what you would like to do.The statement "against the law" is a little strong, since you can buy wheels up to 30inch now, have you seen a car/truck with 26-30 inch wheels oem ...lol ???

Balr14

I always prefer 16 " over 17" and 17" over 18". If nothing else, all things being equal, it reduces unsprung and rotating mass.

Coleroad

Look at race cars. The smallest wheel that will clear the brakes. From a performance standpoint. Smaller wheel is better. The huge wheels are about form not function.

cgroom

thanks, this helps me out too

hitsofmiss

OK, thanks for the feedback.

So, should I go for 245x45x17 or 235x45x17 or 225x45x17 or something else? I prefer better ride comfort & less road noise then the stock 245x40x18.

I've short listed Michelin Pilot A/S 3.

Coleroad

245/45/17's the diameter will still be exactly the same at 25.7 inches. You will have more sidewall height so your ride will be softer.

Coleroad

I have the Pilot a/s 3's on mine I've been happy with them. In the stock size.

Prasha

Which 17" wheels(Lexus/Toyota - factory) would be the best fit ?

Coleroad

I don't know. Hope others on here can chime in who are into wheels. If you're looking at aftermarket wheels you can chat online with tirerack.

hitsofmiss

I'm holding off on replacing my18" wheel for the time being. Never knew wheel crack can be repaired. Hopefully, it should last me a few more months/ years.

Ordered 245/45/18 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3. Will let you know the difference after I have it installed. Thank y'all for your advice.