I really like the look of Michelin's new Defender http://michelinman.com/tire-selector...defender-tires. At this time, they don't make it in the 215/55R 16 size. I know I'd throw my speedometer off a little by getting a 60 height tire. The big box tire place does not recommend it, saying it might rub. The all-purpose, handy-dandy link http://www.rimsntires.com/specs.jsp indicates it should work. So, who has 60 profile tires, and have you had any problem?
Thanks!

 

I run 215/60R x 16 because I save $50- $70 a set. Speedo is off by about 3%, 2 MPH at 65, (speedo says 65 actual is 67). Other than that, no problems, don't know about going any larger.

Any tire store will advise against a tire size not listed on the door sticker, but will install when $s are presented.

 

I use 205-60-16 Bridgestone Blizzaks for the winter. They are the same overall diameter but a little narrower. I like them for the snow but they definitely handle different than the stock tire. They were cheaper and easier to find in that size.

 

I would not go taller than a 26" tall tire.. Any taller can hit the front strut plate.. (see pic)..

I have 225/50/17s' on in a brand that is 26.1" tall.. & they just fit.

 

Those Michelins I am contemplating are 26.1 inches high. So, do yours hit that plate if you were to bottom out the strut? I guess I'm asking; do you have any signs of rubbing? I'd hate to negate 90K tires by rubbing away some tread.

 

Different cars will have different clearances, when I was running the 225/45 18, they were listed as 25.9" and as you can see, I has about as much clearance as Sleeper.



To know if you will clear a 26.1 tire, you should measure. Odds are you will, but that is getting to the point of very close.... If it clears sitting still, it will clear. The strut plate moves with the suspension.

 

The tires move with the bottom of the strut.

 

No rubbing issues on mine at all.. Probably over 600 miles on them now.

I did do a lot of careful measuring & was also careful in tire selection.

If I got very "Squared shoulder tires, I do think they would rub the strut plate..

Going this tall, you really need to do your homework, so YOU are sure..

This really is not a one size fits all dealio.........

 

Great advice above especially about different model tires of the same size rating actually be different sizes.
Here is a link to my favorite tire calculator and comparer.
I have used this many times especailly when building or working on a street rod hot rod musclecar and need to know exact dimensions of what I am changing a car over to.
example taking of a 275/60/15 and putting on a 255/50/17 this calculator brakes it down very well. Oh be careful there are two Dodge Ram emblems when you open the page it just may burn your eyes if you are strictly a chevy person

http://www.dakota-truck.net/TIRECALC/tirecalc.html

 

Quick additional question - Any reason not to run these on a 2011 HHR?
Continental - ProContact ECOPlus
215/60R16SL

Looks like the height is going to be the same (26.1").