what tires for honda ex?
 

The rear passenger tire has gone flat and only holds air for an hour. There is still good tread on it and the others (40-45 psi), but this gives me a chance to change the size of 2 of them if something else might be better. I'm interested in a balance of fuel economy, longevity, safety, and low cost. My only driving is for shopping and occasional trips.

Current Size: 175/70 R 14 84T Altamax RT
Specification: P185/65R14 85S

My idea is to get 1 of the same size, 2 of the wider spec size, 2 of a taller tire, or something different based on the comments. Let me know what you think.

My quick-and-dirty mental calculator says the 175/70-14's have nearly exactly the same diameter and circumference as the stock 185/65-14's. So no "rubber overdrive" effect there. The slightly skinnier 175's will have a slight aerodynamic advantage due to slightly less frontal area pushing against air.

I avoid braking for curves and corners so I've not gone to the skinnier ones. I need the traction. But you could make a case for the 175's. I definitely would not go wider than 185 if fuel economy is your goal. In addition to pushing more air, wider tires will "scrub" more whenever they aren't aimed EXACTLY in line with your direction of travel (which is much of the time I'm sure).

Go to TireRack.com. Look up the size(s) you're interested in. In left hand filter options column, all the way down, filter it for only Low Rolling Resistance tires. LRR tires will definitely help. I've had two sets of Kumho Eco Solus. Both had belt separation issues long before the tread wore out. My Michelin X-Ice II's (winter tires) have performed and held up superbly. Next time around I want Michelin summer tires.

Or you can probably get the existing tire's leak plugged for $10-20 and drive it till the tread wears out!

Brucepick, thanks much for your comments. There was a nail right in the middle of the tire. Costco fixed the leak with a plug, patch, balanced, new stem, and filled all the tires with nitrogen for $14. I'm checking out Tirerack as you recommended. Best regards