Hello all.

My 2004 XC70 came with 16" wheels. But I have a set of snow tires on 15" steel rims that I used on my 1998 V70XC (no longer own). Will I be able to use these snow tires with 15" rims on 2004 XC70? Will I have any mechanical problem if the wheels are an inch smaller than Volvo recommended?

Hey there, generally if the manufacturer puts a size I would not downsize. There is no 15" option for the xc70 ,they will probably hit the brakes. :57:

Agreed. Downsizing the wheels is hard. Unless the overall diamter is the same, it will affect the speedometer, but as Dantana said, brake clearance would be my biggest concern. And thats if the bolt pattern and offset are the same.

Thanks for the advice. I was hoping I wouldn't have to buy a new set of snow tires and rims.
With winter just around the corner, I am indeed shopping for snow tire.

A local Volvo dealer recommends and offers Gislaved Nordfrost III (Swedish made) on 4 steel rims for $1150(Canadian dollars or $1000US). I have heard these are ready good snow tires. But they are not widely available in North America. My concern is that if I ever need to replace a tire, I won't be able to go to any tire dealer and have one replaced on the spot.

My other choice is Michelin Pilot Alpin PA2. They are made in America and widely available.
Costco have them on sale for $660 (about $600US) for a set of 4 without the rims. This price includes Lifetime balance and repair.

Am I making a good choice by going with the Michelin, or am I giving up tire performance?

I rarely hear people say bad things about Michelins. Ive read a few places where they wore out quickly, but that depends on driving style, and usually on performance tires.

I realize you are in Canada, but this might be useful,
http://www.tirerack.com/