C5 correct tyre size, Load rating!!!

[johnsumner]

Hi all,

RE: Citroen C5 2.0 HDI hatchback 2006.

Needing two new tyres I checked all the online sites for tyres using the car's registration number. Selected the tyres I wanted, then double checked the size against what were fitted on the car. 215 / 55 / 16 - 97 W but the spare was a 93W a different loading value. I rang my local Citroen dealership to check what size tyre should be on the car (as per handbook). They said 215 / 55 / 16 - 93W I said does it matter if I fit a load rating tyre of 97 he said as long as its not a reinforced tyre. There was a note on his screen saying reinforced tyres should never be fitted to the vehicle. So I had to go through the selection process again to find none reinforced tyres as all the 97W tyres I had found were reinforced.
The difference is a much softer ride, you don't feel every little bump in the road, easier on the steering and you don't feel like you are about to push the front tyres off the rims on full lock.

[dnsey]

First I've heard of it!
Mine has reinforced tyres on the front at the moment. I've just checked Michelin's site, and they show 97 XL as an 'alternative' option.
A major online dealer's recommendations include mostly XLs too.
There might be something in what he says, but it's unlikely you'd notice the difference IMHO.

[Stickyfinger]

As many know , I carry heavy loads a lot, these are my choice. http://www.tyre-shopper.co.uk/tyres/bra ... e-sv308-xl
They have saved the car once and I find them very good on wet/muddy roads as well as fast A roads.
They seemed a little noisy but are very comfortable.

You can really feel the difference when I unloaded the car with the tire pressures still up high, so I would say the guy is correct and the extra give in the non-reenforced tire makes a softer ride.
Would I use one, nope for me safety first and as reenforced tires are better under deflation/slow down, I will stick with high load types.

Present car has Pilots on, as the car (now X7C5) has changed I cannot say with much certainty as I am new to the car however they seem to be very similar in ride with reduced road noise.