2003 Focus SVT - stock suspension: The previous owner put on a pair of 225/245/17s on the rear of the car before I bought it. Stock size is 215/45/17, which is what was on the front of the car. Since I wanted matching tires I purchased two more 225/45/17s. Now when I hit decent sized bumps the front tires rub. I think they are hitting the plastic inner fender well. Of course I am pissed beause 1) I would not have purchased 225s on my own, I would have stuck with the 215s and 2) I bet the PO had 225s on the front but he put 215s back on the car and did not tell me. There are no rubbing problems turning the wheel lock to lock.
I don't want to buy four new 215s, so is there anything I can do to address the issue? Any suggestion on how I can determe where the tires are rubbing? What am I risking by having the tires rub? Between the hill crests and potholes in my city this could get really annoying.
Hal
Dork
9/18/10 9:16 p.m.
Might try rolling the front fenders. That will give you a little bit more clearance on the outside and rolling the lip up also pushes the fender liner up abot 1/2".
Agreed, your prob hitting the front fenders. It sounds odd on this car.
My 02 SVT has the same issue, except due to wrong offset.
that said, go look for the rub. Noise aint made without some mark somewhere.
Since the wheels aren't stock there may be a problem with incorrect offset/back space plus width.
If the tire rubs on the plastic fender liner it should leave a mark. If it rubs on the fender, the tire will get the mark
OP, no mention of the rims being stock. I am reading that there is an up-size in rubber but not rim. No rubbing when at wheel lock and you are sitting on stock suspension...
Not familiar with the SVT and wheel-well liners, is the plastic tucked into the quarter panels? What are your thoughts on just pulling the fender liners?
As mentioned before, if there is contact, there will be evidence. Post pics if you can!
Yes, fatter tire on stock wheels. I suppose I could pull the fender liners, I will take a look.
