Hi! I'm a new member and returning Subaru owner. Currently own a new-to-me -07 Spec B which, being clad with worn Potenzas, desperately needs some winter rubber. The car's suspension is stock height, currently on the OEM 18"/7" 55 mm offset wheels with 215/45 tires. I'd like to eventually go slightly narrower tires and to 17" wheels for winter, ie. something like 205/55 R17. Being the economy-minded (aka frugal, aka cheep) guy that I am, I've been looking to buy some used wheels and even tires, should the suitable package come a-knockin'.
Well, now it's a-knockin'. At the door I find a set of 17" / 7" wheels with a 38 mm offset, and the required 5X100 bolt pattern. The kicker is these wheels are shod in 235/45 Continental winter rubber which isn't exactly optimal or what I'd like to have. However, I'd like to make this set work for this first winter (as I've been spending way too much money on previous owners' deferred maintenance already) and probably buy a set of Hakkapeliittas next year. I've already read on this board that a 17" wheel should clear the stock calipers just fine. So, my question is will this set-up with 235/45 R17 with 7" wide wheels at 38 mm offset work without any rolling required and with minimal risk of rubbing?
Of course I'll need to make sure the tires are worn evenly. Any other watchouts to consider when buying used tires?
I look forward to the hive's collective wisdom.
