Can I change my 205/45/17 tyres on my Mini Cooper for a higher profile set eg 215/45/17...and if so what effect will it have on ride quality and gearing.

I find the low profile standard fitment not particularly good in snow...

Hi Stuart, and welcome. If you have a good wander through here, you'll find that tyres are a fairly controversial subject. Theres a strong element of personal choice too. Fitting 215 instead of 205 won't make any difference to gearing. The increase in width will give you a little more rubber on the road. Ride quality would be improved with slightly higher profile, up to 50 maybe 55, but won't look very nice and will mean your speedo will be reading on the low side.Reference your comment about snow, you are then wandering into the summer/winter tyre debate, and thats another kettle of fish............. :rolleyes: