Snow Tires with Universal Steel Wheels

I'm not an expert in wheels but I would get a second opinion from a different tire shop.
Sure the dealer wants to sell you whatever they have in stock .
I'm from Alberta and I don't bother with winter tires; Pirus being front wheel handles better than my old rear wheel drive Volvo so why bother with snow tires.

 

Not a reply directly to your question, but I too have had a challenge with installing winter tires.
I bought a v in Nova Scotia last winter and purchased winter tires and steel rims from a shop other than the dealer (to save money, but it turns out the dealer doesn't have steel rims that fit the v).
The valves that sense tire pressure do not fit the steel rims, so regular non-sensing valves have to be used.
So we will again drive all winter with the tire pressure light on.

 

Did you happen to see this post on disabling the TPMS ECU? The whole procedure takes under 60 seconds..
Idea to fool the tire pressure sensors | Page 3 | PriusChat

And here's a photo with the correct jumper:
Idea to fool the tire pressure sensors

 

Maybe talk to a few Toyota dealerships, see what they suggest. In my case, a regular Prius: came stock with the 17" aluminum rims that seem to be both hub and stud centric, ie: the nuts have collars that fit into the rim, and the central hole is a snug fit on the hub.

For snow tires I had a dealership install 195/65R15's (Michelin X-ICE) and black steel Corolla rims, stock 2007 model rims I believe. They also suggested open ended nuts with the bevelled bases, more suited the steel rims.

There may be a 16" steel rim in Toyota's collection that's compatible. Or there may be a higher profile 15" with roughly the same od, and compatible bolt pattern/geometry. FWIW, it's likely safest to let a dealership handle the entire job, at least first time around, in case there's fit issues.

 

How do you like your X-ICe Mendel? I just put on a set of Altimax's...kinda wish I got the X-ice...but they were a bit more money...

James, you will see further down this page I have just put on my steelies...anyways...look here: (the hub fits just like it would fit on alloy's...

 

They worked out very well. Have used them through two "winters" (West Coast winter: barely any snow for those two years), but I'm sure they're grippy. They're quiet, smooth running, do not feel truck-like at all. Our mileage is marginally effected at the most, but that's likely in part because our OEM's are the 17" low profile tires (Canadian Touring model).

 

This is a timely report.

Tire Test Results : Testing the Newest Studless Ice & Snow Winter Tires

Or see my other reports.
New Tire Tests from Tirerack.com | PriusChat

 

The 2012 Toyota Camry steel wheel is the functional equivalent of the 16 inch Prius"v" alloy wheels.

They will "bolt-on," but you need the cone seat tapered lugnuts;

2012 TOYOTA CAMRY Parts - Camelback Toyota Parts

 

$1100 for 4 Blizzak's and $1,400 for alloy wheels? Wow! I am in the Toronto area and the price you were quoted is outrageous. I am having my own dilemma over winter tires The dreaded search for winter tires | PriusChat but both of the packages I am looking at include hubcentric steel wheels. What will not work is the tire pressure sensors (which I am OK with). The place I have been receiving quotes from sells Blizzak's and steel wheels (inluding installation) for the Prius V for approx $850+tax.

 

Tire rack has a huge selection of aluminum alloys for the Prsius V priced from $89 on up. We settled on some 16" five spoke alloys for about $11o each with Michelin X Ice3's mounted on them. Whole deal with shipping was $1000 plus I got in early enough to get a $70 rebate credit card. Doubt they ship to Canada but I wouldn't buy steel wheels when alloys are available so cheap.

 

As I said my original post, the genuine Toyota 2012 Camry wheel has the same diameter center hole, bolt pattern, and offset as the Prius"v" wheel. It takes the genuine Toyota TPMS.

It appears that his Toyota dealer has limited knowledge of his parts and can only sepcify and OEM wheel.

While cheaper wheels are availble, the Toyota wheels sort of guarantee easy of use and less hassle.

 

I've had aftermarket alloy wheels on my 2002 Subaru for ten winters now. They still work fine and the whole set was about the price of an OEM wheel. Worrying about the TPMS sensors is a waste. Bypass them or ignore the light. The only issue with aftermarket wheels is making sure the fitment ring in the hub stays in place when you swap wheels.

I can understand putting steel wheels on if you plan on off-roading the V or running into a bunch of curbs. Otherwise I think aftermarket alloys are the best option. OEM wheels are way, way to much money.

 

I had my new winter tires installed today without a problem on hubcentric steel wheels. Owner confirmed that he uses the same wheels on the V that he uses for the Camry.

 

It can depend on the dealership.

I was talking first with the one we purchased our car from, and was getting nowhere with my queries about steel rims for snows: the parts lady was explaining that the Prius was a "flagship" vehicle, that no steel rims were available.

So I emailed pretty much every dealership in greater Van., and one responded with a sensible suggestion, the Corolla rims.

 

The GenIII Prius can use Corolla steel wheels. The Prius"v," however, needs to use Camry steel wheels.

 

Hub-centric steel rims for the Prius v wagon are readily available (at least in Ottawa). X40872 is the 16" hub-centric steel rim for the Prius v wagon. I contacted several tire shops and I was quoted anywhere from $45 to $65 per rim. This rim also fits many other Toyota models such as the Camry. The service tech at Oakville Toyota is definitely misinformed. Although Blizzak WS-70 is a good winter tire, I would probably go for something with better wet traction (e.g. Cotinental ExtremeWinterContact) if I live in the GTA.

 

^ Regarding the Conti's, did you read F8L's linked TireRack review, up the page? They're neck-and-neck with X-Ice3 for stopping distance, but give up 5.6% in fuel economy.

 

Can you please share the tire source for the GTA. I am still arming myself with information. Thanks

 

I went to a place called Simply Tire near York University. Their price lists for winter packages are posted on their website.