chosenone357

Hey everyone,
I'm new to the forum and just purchased a 2005 550i w/o the sports package. The factory wheels are wimpy looking and wanted to switch them out with M5-M6 oem's. Now since I have the TPMS, is there a way to figure out which type of monitor I have. When goofing around on tirerack, it asked if I had a rubber/metal monitor. I'm unsure as to which I have. Anyone know this info off-hand? Is it built into the rim, on the valve stem?

If I were to get replica's, would they come with the BMW center logo? I looked on Miro's site and didn't see them with the logo. Sorry for all the questions, but just got my BMW yesterday and ready to make changes asap!

lorinzo

Not sure about the TPMS... but the center caps are easily changed. Just pop out. If not, you can get overlays.
Good luck.

JAY'545

I think that the TPMS has a large grey valve stem cap on the valve. You should be able to see it just by looking at it.

luigi524td

If your current wheels have metal valve stems they are TPMS. I think '04 - '05 was the break year from Flat Tire Monitors to TPMS. Check iDrive for Tire Pressure Monitor to confirm. Call your dealer or visit an experienced tire shop!

Many rep wheels will come with BMW type Roundel stickers or have center caps that will accept them. Verify with the business selling them - but be forewarned, many sellers will tell you anything to get the sale. Measure the center cap to confirm that it will accept the sticker.

The reason you don't see reps with the stickers in their advertisements is that reputable sellers cannot represent reps as "original BMW products". Quality reps (trust the long term forum sellers) are fine. Original are best but may be out of your budget.

Good luck with your new to you e60! Lots of info here - use search to hunt first ... then ask questions if you are unsuccessful finding answers.

Will Greer

One thing, though - if you have a 2005 V8, it's a 545i, not a 550i, and those did not use TPMS, they used a FTM (Flat Tire Monitor) system instead that does not require sensors. If you have a 550i, it must be at least a 2006, in which case it does require the TPMS sensors. The info people have provided in this thread about those is accurate.

chosenone357

Oops, fat fingered the year ...It's 2006. Thanks for the info everyone. I'm going to play around with idrive more today and will check out the valve stem caps.