richblumberg

I've got the 19" sport package and am looking to buy snow tires - and some websites recommend going with smaller wheels with bigger sidewall tires. Has anyone bought a different size wheel/tire from what came on their car? Are there any issues I need to be aware of (like dealing with odometer/speedometer calibration)? Tirerack.com suggests 255 45R18 or 235 55R17. The 17" give a lot more options of tires, and better pricing, but they also don't have any inexpensive wheels. Going to the 18" gives better wheel prices, but only 2 options for the tires.

Thanks!

Huey52

I have an A5, but yes I went with 18" rims with 245x40 snow tires for Winter (vs. 255x35x19 Sport pkg Summer), to get a bit taller sidewall and a bit narrower tread width. My cited Winter/Summer rims/tires have the same circumference so no odometer impact. Tirerack's recommendations take this into account, but there are online calculators as well.

btw: I highly recommend Michelin Alpin snow tires as the best performance type in all conditions. However, if you regularly encounter deep snow a non-performance type with a more aggressive shoulder tread pattern may be better.