What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Can I fit 16-inch wheels to my Ford Focus for a more comfortable ride?

I have a June 2011 Ford Focus 1.6 EcoBoost with 17-inch wheels. I'm fed up with banging around Exeter and have almost decided to change to 16-inch wheels with 215/55 R16 tyres. The suppliers seem to think this would be much better. I need to replace the front tyres anyway, so now would be a good time. Are there any drawbacks, although the gearing and speedo will be slightly out, but is there any danger?

Asked on 1 June 2013 by MH, via email

Answered by Honest John
The deeper profile 16-inch tyres have very similar rolling circumference to the 17s. The even softer alternative, of course, is 15-inch wheels with 195/65 R15 tyres. That's what the Focus Econetic was on that I ran for a year. Handled fine.
Similar questions
In the past few days my wife and I have taken delivery of two new Ford cars: a Focus Estate and a B-Max; both are to Titanium X specification. Both cars have many attributes with which we are delighted....
I have just purchased a 2012 Ford Focus Titanium X fitted with 18-inch wheels. I love the car but find the ride hard. Would fitting 17-inch wheels make the ride better? The car has only done 3000 miles....
I'm baffled by the different wheel sizes on offer for the same model of car. Often the higher spec models have bigger wheels. Are there any advantages to these bigger tyres, which seem to be considerably...
Related models
Refined and upmarket feel to the cabin. Comfortable and quiet on the move. More efficient petrol and diesel engines. Better ride quality. Excellent £750 Driver Assist Pack.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer