What size tires fit my Chevy Malibu?
When it comes to maintaining your Chevy Malibu, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the appropriate tire size. The right tires can significantly impact your vehicle's performance, handling, and safety. In this article, we'll provide a detailed guide on how to determine the optimal tire size for your Malibu.
Identifying Your Malibu's Factory-Recommended Tire Size
The first step in choosing the right tires for your Chevy Malibu is to identify the factory-recommended tire size. This information can typically be found in your owner's manual or on a placard located inside the driver's side door jamb. The factory-recommended tire size is the size that the Malibu was designed to use and is the best starting point for your tire selection.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Tires
While the factory-recommended tire size is a good starting point, there are several other factors to consider when selecting tires for your Malibu:
- Tire Width: Wider tires can provide better traction and handling, but they may also decrease fuel efficiency. Narrower tires can improve fuel economy but may compromise grip and stability.
- Aspect Ratio: The aspect ratio is the ratio of the tire's sidewall height to its tread width. Lower aspect ratios (e.g., 50 or 45) generally provide a sportier, more responsive ride, while higher aspect ratios (e.g., 65 or 70) offer a more comfortable, cushioned feel.
- Wheel Diameter: The wheel diameter must match the size of your Malibu's wheels. Changing the wheel diameter can affect the overall tire diameter, which can impact your vehicle's speedometer and odometer readings.
- Load Rating: The load rating indicates the maximum weight the tire can safely support. It's important to choose tires with a load rating that meets or exceeds the requirements of your Malibu.
- Speed Rating: The speed rating reflects the maximum speed the tire is designed to handle. Make sure to select tires with a speed rating that matches or exceeds the top speed capabilities of your Malibu.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that the tires you choose for your Chevy Malibu provide the optimal balance of performance, comfort, and safety.
Tire Size Conversion and Compatibility
If you decide to deviate from the factory-recommended tire size, it's important to ensure that the new tires are compatible with your Malibu. You can use online tire size calculators or consult with a tire specialist to determine the appropriate tire size that will fit your vehicle without causing any issues.
Remember, proper tire maintenance, including regular rotation, balancing, and alignment, is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your tires. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Chevy Malibu is equipped with the right tires for your driving needs.
Does it matter what tires I get for my car?
Your tire's load index, or how much weight the tire can safely support, is critical for vehicle safety. Only install tires that meet or exceed the load index required for your ride. Tire speed rating is another important consideration.
What size tires fit a Chevy Malibu?
Chevy Malibu Tire Sizes for Each Configuration
2LT: 245/40R19. LS: 205/65R16. LT: 205/65R16, 225/55R17, 245/45R18, 245/40R19. RS: 245/45R18.
How do I know what tires will fit my car?
This information is usually inside your car's doorjamb, in your owner's manual. To ensure your current tire or a replacement tire you may be looking at matches your vehicle's requirements, it will be good for you to understand how tire sizing works.
What tires fit a 2017 Chevy Malibu?
The Chevy Malibu has several stock tires, including Firestone FT140 tires, Hankook Kinergy GT H436 tires, Continental ProContact TX tires, as well a range of OE tire sizes, including: 215/60R15 tires. 205/65R16 tires. 225/55R17 tires.
What are good tires for a Chevy Malibu?
Best Chevrolet Malibu Tires
- michelin. CrossClimate2. 4.8 Read Reviews (3586) Uncompromising grip in any weather.
- continental. Control Contact Sport SRS+ 4.6 Read Reviews (1731) Get thrills that don't quit in foul weather.
- yokohama. YK-GTX. 4.7 Read Reviews (2043)
- kumho. Solus Majesty 9 TA91. 4.5 Read Reviews (509)
What tires fit a 2016 Chevy Malibu?
The Chevy Malibu has several stock tires, including Firestone FT140 tires, Hankook Kinergy GT H436 tires, Continental ProContact TX tires, as well a range of OE tire sizes, including: 215/60R15 tires. 205/65R16 tires. 225/55R17 tires.
What different size tires can I use?
When changing tire sizes, we recommend staying within 3% of the diameter/height of the original tire. Any more than this and you face the risk of brake failure. This tire calculator is for information purposes only and we do not guarantee fitment based on this calculator alone.
Is buying cheap tires worth it?
Besides safety concerns, the very cheapest tires provide poor durability. If the tires are too cheap, then you will end up replacing them so often that the cost savings are lost. In addition, cheap tires lower your gas mileage and produce more noise than mid-range and higher-end tires.
Can I go up a tire size?
Installing larger wheels and tires, also known as “plus-sizing,” can affect the accuracy of its speedometer and odometer, handling, steering response and more. If done incorrectly, changing the tire size can be detrimental to the safety of your vehicle.
What rims fit a Chevy Malibu?
Deals for your Chevrolet Malibu
The Chevy Malibu has a range of stock rim sizes, including 16-inch rims, 17-inch rims, 18-inch rims and 19-inch rims, depending on its year model and trim level.
