Help on tires
 

I just bought a 2003 LX and it really needs new tires. I had one blow out on the interstate today (New Year's Day - whoopee) and I was only able to replace the one with a BFGoodrich P19555V15 ( I was lucky to be able to get that done). My father is of the opinion that any 15" tire should do and I should replace at least two of the three tires I have left with something cosiderably cheaper than the P19555V15. I'm not so sure.

Does anyone have any advice for me? I live in central Illinois, so all weather tires are a must.

-Jen

If you go narrower than 195 millimeters it won't stop as quickly, corner as well, or handle a load as safely. If you change the aspect ratio (the height of your current tire is 55% of 195 mm) the speedo will read wrong. Go to www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html and see how different size combinations affect the speedometer.

DO NOT MIX AND MATCH TIRE SIZES!! it is very unsafe.

lowering aspect ratios won't throw off the speedo enough to worry about.

Marcus here- I do suggest as well that you stick with the same tire as the one you replaced, and replace all three not just two. Then make sure you get them rotated regularly.

I agree with foxy to replace all three and to make sure you get them rotated. I had to go throught this problem of changing my tires and it was just one tire that need changing but i figured that since all four had been on for the same time, it's only a matter of time that the rest will go.

Cost-cutting alternative, if cost is a concern - replace one, not three with the exact same new tire as the first one. Then, put the exact same two new tires on the front. Leave rear as is, or put two different new tires on the rear. The key is not to mix and match tires ON THE SAME AXLE. As long as the front and rear tire sets are similar (size, tread, wear indication (read->hardness)), you should be fine.
If cost is not an issue - buy 4, like everyone suggests