Citroen C5 Hdi Correct Tyre Size - Load Rating !

[John.A.S.]

Hi all,

 

C5 2.0ltr  HDI hatchback, 2006.

 

As I needed two new tyres for the car and I have 215/55/16 97W on all 4 wheels but a 93W on the spare, the handbook just said contact your local dealership re tyre size so I did.

I was told was the correct size for the car was 215/55/16 93W , so I asked is it OK to fit 97W? He said as long as the tyre is not reinforced, There was a not on the screen saying reinforced tyres should NEVER be fitted to this vehicle.

 

I now have two new tyres on the front with a load rating of 93 none reinforced and the ride is much softer, you don't feel all the little bumps and white lines as you drive along. Also on full lock it does not feel as if you are about to push the tyres off the rims.

 

Before anyone tells me, I am aware that new tyres should always be fitted to the rear axle on a front wheel drive car. I will be have two more new tyres fitted at the end of the month.

 

It was definitely worth the check. 

[Johndouglas]

Having recently got rid of a facelifted C5, I can confirm that the tyres should be 215/55/16 W93s. Having said that, most online tyre suppliers having read the registration number and quoted the correct markings will include both W93 and W97 in their list of recommended tyres.

[paul.h]

On one of the front door pillars there is a sticker that gives the tyre pressures and tyre size for your car. It also has the RPO number and paint code. You may find the previous owner put 97 tyres on because they were lower cost than the correct ones or maybe they got a set of wheels with them already on.

[MikeLane]

Oops ! Recently had a pair of 97W Michelins fitted to the front of my 1.6 HDi facelift. I don't feel any difference to the ride but then, Hampshire roads are pretty awful - full of depressions and potholes. Am I likely to be damaging anything by using these tyres?

[John.A.S.]

Hi,

No Idea, I was told by Citroen dealer that 97W should never be fitted and the garage that fitted my new tyres said the suspension does not like the harder walled tyres.

I ran my C5 with 97W on all four wheels but I did notice when the tyres were changed to 93W that the ride was softer and the steering lighter. A friend of mine has just changed the fronts from 97W to 93W and has found the same, the car rides the bumps easier and it rolls a bit more.

[MikeLane]

Thanks John - I'll have to remember in about 25Kmiles! (and when I replace the rears!).