Hey all, just purchased a 2019 MKZ 3.0T AWD with 30k miles. The car came with the 19" wheels with the 245/40/19 size tires. I live in Minnesota and the car has Goodyear Eagle Touring tires which are working OK in the snow and ice storms we are getting. I'm contemplating purchasing snow tires, which will stay soft as the temperatures drop towards 0 degrees and below.
I am curious if anyone has put 17" wheels on the MKZ 3.0T? Are there brake clearance issues? The obvious reason going 17" is the cost of wheels and tires are drastically cheaper, and the ride quality is more comfortable with the larger sidewall.
Are there any tire diameter specs that need to be within a certain measured range to not cause damage to the AWD system? The Tire Diameter of 245/40/19 is 26.7 inches. It would be nice to free up some space between the edge of the tire and the fender/wheel well as snow and ice can build up and rub/obstruct the tire when turning.
It looks like 225/55/17 also has a tire diameter of 26.7"
225/55/17 = 26.7" diameter / 0 radius change
235/45/17 = 25.3" diameter / 0.7" radius change
225/45/17 = 25" diameter / 0.85" radius change
235/50/17 = 26.3" diameter / 0.2" radius change
I looked in the manual and couldn't locate any information regarding these requirements.
