chill669

Hi everyone,

New to the forum and e60 530xi. Looking to get some advice on what I should get for the winter setup. I am looking for wheels and tires. What are people running? 17s? 16s? And what size tires would go along with it?

I have seen the huge thread about Xi and wheels, but I think I got more confused than anything. Hoping anyone with xi knowledge can chime in on what they're running.

Thanks!

JayArras

Welcome to the forum! I have same year and model as you do. 16's won't fit because the xi's need a larger clearance. 17's are your best bet if you expect to drive in snow. 225/50/R17 is recommended.

The good news is, if you're running all-season tires and they're fairly new, you probably will be able to get by this winter without running snows. If they're summer tires, however, you'll definitely want to get a winter setup.

Wheels for the other E60s will not fit the xi properly. The offsets you need are 35 - 45. So keep that in mind as you shop. If you're looking on Craigslist, E46 3 Series wheels will fit as long as they're 17s or 18s. I wouldn't go any larger for a winter setup.

chill669

Thanks jayarras! I'll keep my eyes out for some e46 wheels - good to know they fit.

luigi524td

Depending on the winter you'll be dealing with you have some alternatives. I run UHP (ultra high perf) all-seasons in the stock sport size 245x40-18" and manage nicely even in moderately deep snow and still get good handling when the roads are clear. If you must absolutely go in the snow, the proper size and performance rated winter tires fitted to all four 17" wheels are best. If you are shopping for snows ya better get cranking - the best rated tires go quickly. Check 'em out at tirerack and shop through the link in my signature to grab add'l rebates.

chill669

Anyone know if I can run 225 45 R17? And will OEM style 157s fit?

Thanks

luigi524td

NO - 225 45 R17 is undersized for your e60; see here > Tire size calculator

Careful with OEM "STYLE" - usually aftermarket look-alikes. Center bore, wheel lug spacing, and for xi's OFFSET is very important, not just for appearances but for proper suspension clearance. Some RWD 3 series 18" wheels will work because they have higher offsets. RWD e60s have offsets that are lower 20 vs 43 and should not be used for your xi.

Last piece of advice - there are several posts about this question. Many are from experienced members and you can take their advice. PM them if you have specific questions. However, MANY MANY MANY wheel sellers will tell you anything to sell you wheels. Word to the wise - Do your homework - Measure twice - cut once!

chill669

Thanks! Much appreciated

chill669

Hey, anyone know if this style 3-series e46 wheels would fit?
BMW Authentic Alloy winter Rims and Tires (one season on tires) - City of Toronto Tires, Rims For Sale - Kijiji City of Toronto Canada.

JayArras

Hey Luigi, your opinion please...

What is the absolute minimum snow tire width you'd recommend for an xi: 215? 205? Obviously, narrower is better for snow. At what point is performance affected?

What about tire height? It would seem that the higher, the better, Is 55 too high?

Just interested in understanding the dynamics operating here for snow tires.