jw1977

What's has everyone gone with for snow tires rims, 18 or 19's? I've heard the narrower 18's are better for snow but I like the look of the 18's. Also, are most people using OEM wheels or just the cheaper wheels you get in the package from Tire Rack? Is the quality okay for the cheaper rims Tire Rack sells, I just want to make sure the wheels will be balanced fine so the ride is still superb, i've heard sometimes cheaper wheels are harder to balance. Thanks.

Audirings4

You'll have more cushion and better wheel protection with the 18" wheels.
If you prefer OEM im sure you can find a nearly new set that someone is selling for a good price. If you don't mind aftermarket Tirerack has some good pricing and quality wheels. I opted for 18" black aftermarket wheels.

Steve Trac, Sec 303

I'll be getting 18" Audi replicas or VMRs around Thanksgiving time for my S4. I've ALWAYS had Blizzaks (19 years) but might get another brand as there are a lot more these days.

GRMick

I stayed with 19 inch winter tires on the factory wheels.

Narrower tires are indeed better in the snow. Considered going to 18's but liked the look of the 19's better and figured there was not that much difference between 245 mm and 255 mm. Time will tell.

I'm thinking of getting BBS CH wheels in the spring to use with the summer tires and leave the winter tires mounted on the factory wheels.

Bobby Kinstle

I'd go with 18's because they are more compliant and snow is a pretty bumpy ride.

Phanthom S8

I purchased a set of Dunlop's on aftermarket wheels from Tire Rack for my wife's S4 Great price on a quality tire and wheel combo. They do a great job of balancing and I have never had a problem in the past 20 years I have been dealing with them. I highly recommend the 18's as they will not "push" the snow as the 19's do. You could still get a great look and try the style on your car in the Tire Rack configurator to determine what wheel you like best.

Toecutter

Sometimes no difference at all. My 245 Sumitomo HTR Z tires are as wide as my 255 Continental Contact Sports.

I think the best reasons to go with 18" wheels are the added sidewall height, lower cost, and greater selection.

jw1977

What do you mean that the 19's will push the snow? They are only 10mm wider?

isles1

I went with 18" for the lower cost factor and larger sidewall for the often unavoidable winter potholes. 18" OEMs are pretty easy to find on eBay or the classifieds on Audi boards.

jw1977

I just hate the look of the 18's. Has anyone on here bought 19 inch wheels for snow tires and regretted it?