How wide can we go with tires?

I have a 2013 Fusion Titanium with 19-inch wheels. The stock size is 235/40 R19, but I currently have 245s on. I’m looking at a used set of Michelin CrossClimates that are 255 wide. Has anyone tried putting 255s on before? Any issues with going 20mm over the recommended size?

Even if they don’t rub, there’s no real benefit to going wider with all-weather tires. You might lose traction in snow, which is the reason to have all-weathers in the first place. They’re also heavier and more expensive. I have 245s on my 2010, and while they add grip for cornering, the stock 225s were fine for daily driving. Plus, the wider tires tend to track funny on rutted roads, so they’re mostly for looks.

@Norris
I’m planning to use these as snow tires. Michelin CrossClimates are pretty reputable for snow, so I don’t see how they’d lose traction compared to my generic all-seasons. Is 10mm really that big of a difference?

@FordFusion
CrossClimate 2s are great tires. We’re putting them on my girlfriend’s car tomorrow. When it comes to wider snow tires, there are two schools of thought:

  1. Go wider and air down the tires, like they do on off-road trucks, so they float on top of the snow. But these tires aren’t designed for that, and it’s not practical for road use.

  2. Go with tall, skinny tires that cut through the snow to reach the pavement, which is better for cars with higher ground clearance, but not for Fusions.

I’d recommend sticking with OEM size or something like a 215/60R16 (assuming the brakes fit). If you do go wider, let me know how it works out. And if these are just for winter, why not go with dedicated snow tires like Michelin X-Ice or Blizzaks?

@Norris
I found a good deal on used CrossClimate 2s, which is why I’m asking. If I were buying new, I’d definitely get dedicated snow tires, but I’m just curious if the wider size will affect performance.

@FordFusion
Got it. If you found a good deal and they fit, no harm in trying them out! Just make sure the load rating matches the OEM specs, and watch out for scams. These tires have been in high demand.

@FordFusion
The CrossClimate 2 is an all-weather tire, great year-round, but a dedicated snow tire is still the best for winter. I’ve been running them, and they’re excellent overall.

You’re going to have rubbing issues.

I had 255/40R18s on my 2020, and they fit fine. The car was also on lowering springs with aftermarket wheels—8.5 inches wide with a +35mm offset.