Tires: Tire Replacement, mitsubishi gallant, rear tires

Question
QUESTION: Recently I had the two rear tires replaced on a 2002 Mitsubishi Gallant. The mechanic replaced the existing tires with P215/65R15 tires.Are these tires an appropriate size for the 2002 Mitsubishi Gallant? Are they equivalent to what were the original tire size?

ANSWER: Dick,

There will be a label - commonly called the placard - that will list the orogonal tire size and the proper pressure for that size.  Placards are usually located on a doorpost or in the glove box.

But I have a book that is usually correct, and it says a 2002 Mitsubishi Gallant came wih P195/65R15's on 6" rims inflated to 32 psi front and 29 psi rear.

So, no the tires put on are not equivalent, but they will do in a pinch.  Not really the best move, but at least the mechanic put them on the rear.

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QUESTION: Is it possible that this will cause major suspension damage?

Answer
Dick,

No.

But there is a possibility the tire may rub on something.  I can't tell you for sure whether that will be the case - or not - because I would need to measure the fenderwell on your car.  There are folks that do that, but they think it gives them a competitive advantage - which it might - so they don't share the information.

If I were you I'd listen for rubbing noises and if you hear them, head back to the tire shop and have them exchange the tires for the proper size.