I have a 2006 530xi with the sports package, but the original owner ordered the car with the standard 17" wheels (BMW style #138) vs. the 18" sports wheels/tires that should have come on the vehicle. I am looking to correct this, but cannot find a used set of OEM 18" XI wheels. I prefer wheels that are "made to fit" the 530xi versus a wheel that was made for another vehicle, but by chance happens to fit the xi (with or with some modifications). For example, I have been told that SOME 3 Series and X5 wheels will fit, but I hesitent to proceed with such a purchase.

I would replace to replace my current wheels with BMW OEM either style #123 or #124, but I am open to other options.

I will buy the wheels outright or gladly trade my very clean 17" wheels on a set of XI sport wheels. My wheels are in good condition and my tires nearly new. I am only looking to make the change because I want a more unique appearance and maybe a slightly more sporty ride.

If I am unable to find a suitable replacement, what are your thoughts on having my current 138s chrome plated?

I welcome any suggestions.

 

Buy the OEM 124's for the xi, staggered. The 123's are not staggered. You can find good deals on ebay sometimes, but it's harder for the xi. You might need to just buy a new set.

And whatever you do, do NOT chrome anything!

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?mo...hg=36&fg=15

Shoot this guy an email for pricing: https://5series.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=18067

 

Also I think any of the 3 series wheels have the right offest for the xi.

 

VMRs make some nice wheels for the XI model.

 

IF I may ask, what is so negative about getting chrome? I have seen a car like mine with chrome OEM style #123 and have been trying to recreate that look. Please let me know the pros (other than appearance) & the cons of chrome plating.

 

It's your car, so do what you want. People here generally don't prefer chrome, but it's you who has to live with it. Take into consideration where you live as chrome doesn't hold up well with salt used in the winters up north (it pits the chrome and looks terrible).

You want an offset of about 35 with the XI. 3 series wheels work well as they are 34 front and 37 rear offsets (or ET34 and ET37). I put 3 series wheels on my XI, and you can get them staggered. 5 series "I" wheels will not work. I believe that X5 wheels will work, but I'd have to double check the offsets.

Also look in the classifieds here on 5series.net, the last time I checked someone was selling XI style 123's for a good price.

 

Good information, thanks.

After posting my question, I believe I found and bought the set of #123s that you are referencing. I was strongly considering having them chromed before installing them on my black on black 530xi. I might keep my 138s for winter wheel, but snow is not much of a factor where I currently live; I have not had issues with chrome wheels in the past, but they were factory chrome (not BMW).

 

Don't forget...there are 2 types of 123's and 124's...those for RWD and those for AWD (xi's).

 

That is something I know all too well, as every set I have attempted to purchase in the past has been for RWD and would not fit my XI. I confirmed the part number on the wheel with my local BMW Service Manager. These wheels came off an XI and should fit my car.

Assuming that issue is covered, is there anymore feedback/input on the finish (chrome or powdercoat) of the wheel. I want something unique, while keeping an OEM wheel.

 

What color is your ride? If you do any refinishing, get them powdercoated. Lots of folks here prefer a gunmetal finish to the OEM silver. But like I said, depends on the color of your car.