Fitting undersized winter tyres to my wife's Fiesta - can I use smaller wheels and should I notify my insurers? | Ask Honest John

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Fitting undersized winter tyres to my wife's Fiesta - can I use smaller wheels and should I notify my insurers?

I am about to fit winter tyres to my wife's 1.4-litre diesel 2008 Fiesta. I have got hold of four 14-inch steel rims but the car presently runs on 15-inch rims. Can I use the smaller profile wheels and will I need to inform my insurers?

Asked on 1 July 2012 by GB, Maesteg, South Wales

Answered by Honest John

The correct size is 175/65 R14, actually the same as I have fitted to my FIAT 500 in place of the 185/55 R15s. I'm on Michelin Alpins, and one immediate benefit is better ride quality, never mind cold weather performance. Yes, you should disclose this to your insurers, but the ABI has ruled that they may not increase your premium for fitting this vital safety feature.

Tags: wheels and tyres wheel sizes winter tyres

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