'97 Avalon tires question

[Mashin07]

Greetings to all!
Recently had two front tires (P205/65 R15 92 H made by BF Goodrich) installed at BJ wholesale club. I have exactly same size and same brand tires on the rear wheels which are flushed with the rims (these were done two years ago); however, on the new ones, 1/4" of rim edges are exposed (visible) all around (360 degree). I am under the impression that entire rim edges should be covered by the tires--did mentioned to the manager who said it is the design of these tires and that's how they seat! I am concerned whether these may pose any risk for road hazards? All four rims are Original. Please respond with your helpful suggestions and advise, thank you.

[jdmccright]

I would be concerned if the front and the rear tires were the EXACT brand, model, size. There can be differences between models of tires, and sometimes even the same model can go through minor design tweaks.

I would first consult your owner's manual or the vehicle's load rating sticker to be sure that the correct tire size is indeed on your rims (I see from tirerack.com that they do match...205/65-R15). I'd look at the size numbers molded into the tires as well.

Then I'd take a close look at the tires edge on to compare the sidewalls. Are the fronts or rears bulging out more or less? Disregard the portion where the tire is touching the ground. A straightedge might help you see this curvature relative to the rim. If they are different and the tires are EXACTLY the same type, then the installer should re-seat the bead.

Another thing to check would be the inside beads...are they consistent with the outside? Or are they different? If they are different on the same tire, I'd definitely take it back to have them remounted.

[Mashin07]

I thank you for your response, would you please provide little more details re how to check on this:
"Another thing to check would be the inside beads...are they consistent with the outside?" You may provide a link to the site where I can see pictures.
Once again, thanks.

[Brian R.]

He wants you to compare the beads that you can see on each tire (outboard) with the corresponding beads that are inboard of the hub, that is on the side of the tire you can't see when you are standing up - they are next to the brake caliper and rotor/drum. Many times the outboard side of the tire is blackwall and the inboard side of the tire has raised white lettering so that you have a choice of appearance.