Tire change question (non SC)

91_SC_BIRD

Registered User
Hey guys,

One of my buddies has Pontiac Sunfire. The car has 195/70/14, and he was going to put some 195/60/14. The mechanic told him that he should not do that, because it will mess up his ABS, the check engine light could come on, and it could end up costing him a computer. I have a hard time believing that. Would the mechanic be right, or would he be on crack??

Thanks
 
his pipe was too full

On all ABS/Traction control vehicles, tire size should not be mixed on the same vehicle. (also 4x4's and AWD's) Plus, tire sizes should ALWAYS be the same size on the same axle--otherwise differential damage and vehicle pull will result. But, if he puts on all four of the same size it will make little difference--save for the speedo will be inaccurate. (This is true except for LARGE changes in tire outside diameter--Too big or too small and the ABS is ineffective.) If he only puts on two tires, it will adversely effect ABS and traction control (if equipped) to the point of being severely unsafe. But even if he puts on only two it will not harm the ABS ECU. It may however over time harm the HCU because the ABS will try and use the ABS function just about every time you slow down.
FYI: Tire sizes should not be mixed on the same car even if it is not equipped with ABS, T/C AWD, 4x4 etc.
 
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