What size winter-tires?

**swrt83** · 07-07-2008 01:58 PM

I know it's July and you're thinking what the hell is he talking about winter for? I'd like to get some feedback, though, before I start researching for a set of winter wheels.

I plan on using my stock rims (17 x 7.5) and while I don't have any brake upgrades right now, there may be new ones on before the next snowfall here in PA. If that's the case, I'd be upgrading to a front B7 A4 set, while either getting a slightly larger rotor in the back, or sticking with the stock rear setup.

With all that said, how large do you think I could go with a 17" tire, meaning sidewall. I'd also need to know how narrow I could go, too.

Car will be lowered as well, but very conservative (think H&R/Bilstein as most aggressive stance). Thanks in advance!

**Audized** · 07-07-2008 04:05 PM

Your stock 5-spoke 17's will clear the B7 brakes, so you need not to worry about getting a new set of winter wheels.

For tires, you can either stick to the stock size 235/45 or go for 215/50 for better winter traction.

**swrt83** · 07-07-2008 05:17 PM

Thanks Autumn. I know they clear, I was just more curious about how skinny I could go with that rim. 215 would fit ok? That would be awesome, and help in the snow!

Any recommendations in tires? Doc from tirerack? Input?

**Audized** · 07-08-2008 02:22 AM

Welcome. Lots of people on here run 215/50/17 on their stock rims in winter.

Edit: just wanted to re-iterate the correct profile, 50 rather than the stock 45, for 215 tires.

**CaRtharsis** · 07-08-2008 11:26 AM

To carry this a little further. Would B7 S4 brakes fit under a 17" wheel, either steel or aluminum?

I am upgrading to 18's for summer and need to buy new winter wheels and tires. My stock wheels are only 16's which I know will not fit the S4 upgrade so no sense in buying winter tires for those. I really do not want to get into 18's for winter so this may prevent the S4 upgrade.

**Audized** · 07-08-2008 02:02 PM

Originally Posted by CaRtharsis

To carry this a little further. Would B7 S4 brakes fit under a 17" wheel, either steel or aluminum?

I am upgrading to 18's for summer and need to buy new winter wheels and tires. My stock wheels are only 16's which I know will not fit the S4 upgrade so no sense in buying winter tires for those. I really do not want to get into 18's for winter so this may prevent the S4 upgrade.

Brake clearance is not just about the size of your wheels. The spoke design and offset also have to be taken into consideration. Unlike B6 S4 brakes, B7 S4 calipers give you less room to work with, but 17's should be fine. Tire Rack carries quite a few 17's that clear B7 S4 brakes.