sdleeper

Many of the websites for tires exclude rims as incompatible on the S5 even though the spoke configs and offsets match OEM specifications (ie. 18x8 5 spoke 112 w/40 offset). Some sites will match against the A5, but not when you specify the S5. Any idea why certain rims are excluded from matching even though they match the OEM?

I am looking at American Racing Maverick 883 rims, which match as indicated but are not identified as compatible.

Tifosi

S5 and A5 uses different brake calipers. The S5 brakes are bigger and requires more room to clear the wheels.

sdleeper

I guess I will have to fork out the extra cost of the larger wheels with the right offsets. Not many 18x8 Chrome rims availble that are compatible, most are jumped up to 19x9.5 or 20x9.5. This not only increases the cost of the wheel, but also the cost of the tires as well. Challenging since the OEM wheel is 18x8, which provides a good platform for lower priced tires.

mssurrey

Actually OEM (in the USA) is 18 x 8.5 ET29 with upgrade to 19 x 8.5 ET29

Tifosi

An alternative is to use spacers, that will allow the wheel to clear the calipers. However, there are side effects to using spacers, mainly pre-mature wearing of the wheelbearings.

uroplatus

Have you considered chroming the factory 18x8 wheels?

sdleeper

I want to go to a five spoke rim, so I will be purchasing a full extra set of wheels/tires. When the OEM come off the car, chroming them as well is certainly an option. Would need a spare set anyway to send out the OEM to be chromed, unless I put the S5 up on blocks for however long it takes. Not a desireable option.

I did find a set of 19" chrome rims at Tire Rack that I like and that are suitable for the S5(Sport Edition ST3). This is the set I will go with if I don't find another that is suitable. Really liked the American Racing Maverick 883 which comes in an 18" 5-spoke 112, but they were not showing as compatible.