I have heard a lot about the stock SO-2 rear tires wearing out by 10 or 15k miles and my rears are getting pretty slippery in the rain. I would like to put the 225/50/16 rear tires and put them up front and buy a new pair of 245/45/16 and put them in the back. This would give me some new grip in the rear and a little extra width all around for a better look.

I found that the SO-2's are not available in 245/45/16 but the SO-2 Pole Positions are. The tread looks identical and from what I've read the main difference is in the compound of the Pole Positions (they are supposed to get softer as they wear for better wet traction). The only other difference is that they are Z-rated (149+ mph) as opposed to W.

Has anyone done this upgrade or have any opinions or cautions?

 

There are many threads and thousands of words on this subject. I suggest you do some research here and you may find that your tire plans need more thought.

 

gnlebo,
It wasn't completely clear about the tires you are putting on the front, but realize that you cannot put the rear wheels on the front of the car, they don't fit. Also, the rear OEM tires should not be mounted on the front wheels because it will cause the rear of the car to be loose.

 

I like the Toyo t1-s proxes

 

I also have toyo proxes t1-s and find them to handle quite well.

One thing, however, don't believe the treadwear rating - 280 is pretty high, but I can tell you right now I don't think they will last much longer than the s-o2's. I made a comment about the high treadwear rating to the dealer I got the tires from and he said don't believe it for a minute...and he is right!

 

Your front and rear rims are not the same size. The 225's will not fit on the front rims.