Can I fit smaller wheels to my Ford?

I have 15-inch wheels on my car and need to replace one rim. I went to a scrap yard but they didn't have any 15-inch wheels for my model of car (2003 Ford Fusion). They had a full set of 14-inch rims with new tyres (thinking of replacing all four because I also need two tyres), but I'm wondering can I put 14-inch rims on to a car that has 15-inch wheels.

Keith Byrne (Navan)

Mar 2012 Filed under: tyres

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Expert answer

Hi Keith,

Yes you can is the simple answer. However, for the speedometer to remain accurate you'll need to ensure that the overall diameter of the combined tyre and wheel remains the same. That means a 14-inch wheel will need a deeper profile tyre than you had on your 15-inch rim.

If you need more explanation come back to us and we'll talk you through it.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D