Rubbing experianced with new wheels and tires

**CHSA3** · 07-20-2008 08:22 AM

I just recently purchased and installed 4 new wheels and tires and am experiancing rubbing when I have someone in the passenger seat and one in the back seat driving on the highway (autobahn) or when going over bumps in the road associated with train tracks etc... I have an 2008, A3 S-Line, and purchased 18 x 8.5 wheels and 235/40/18 tires ET between 45-47. These were the recommended wheel and tire sizes when I consulted with numerous sites. The rubbing is coming from the rear tires from what I believe is called the "carpeting" in the rear wheel wells. Additionally, there is rubbing happening inside the wheel well from a rounded metal screw head that is located at the 10:00 position (if you look at the wheel well as the face of the clock). This rounded metal screw head is either there to hold the "carpeting" in place or is there to hold the rear molding to the sheet metal. I would be willing to take the screw out if I knew that it was not playing a critical role. I love the look of the new wheels and tires but I need my vehicle to remain practical and do not want to worry about causing damage to the tires or car that could result in a less than positive experiance. I am looking for any suggesions your help would be greatly appreciated.

**Doc@tirerack** · 07-21-2008 12:32 PM

Tire size is correct, although most wheels we guarantee to fit are ET50. You could minimize the issue by going to a 225/40R18 (XL).

**CHSA3** · 07-21-2008 12:55 PM

Thanks for the reply, however right now Im not looking at buying 4 new tires, since the ones I have right now are brand new. For clarification, 225's would fit correct on an 18 x 8.5 wheel? Do you have any other recommendations that would not consist of changing the wheels and tires? Thanks for your input.

**Doc@tirerack** · 07-22-2008 09:38 AM

Yep, rim width range on 225/40R18 is 7.5" to 9"

**andre5** · 07-22-2008 08:09 PM

I just recently purchased a set of wheels 18x8.5 with a 45mm offset. I test fitted the wheels front and back (no tires yet) to check for clearance. Same situation in the back: 225 is the max width to avoid rubbing. It's a tight fit between the rim of the wheel and the inside fender well.

BTW, I drive an '07 VW GTi 4 door w/ DSG.

**CHSA3** · 07-23-2008 12:42 AM

I am hoping that I will not have to purchase new tires, but the advice is appreciated and may be an option I pursue. Would going down to a 35 instead of 40 help in addition to going to a 225 instead of a 235, or would the 224/40/18 have a small diameter anyways? Have you heard of anyone who has removed the rear wheel well carpeting or cut a portion out to solve the rubbing problem?

**andre5** · 07-23-2008 08:13 PM

Stick with the 225/40-18. Going down to a 35 sidewall will make the tire a little shorter, but you'll sacrifice ride comfort and your speedometer will read a little faster than you're actually going.

**CHSA3** · 07-25-2008 09:25 AM

Doc, what does the (XL) mean in the 225/40R18 (XL). I have Yokahama's and I have heard that Yokahama has a thicker sidewall, is there a tire your recommend that doesnt have such the sidewall but similar stats as the Yokahama?

**andre5** · 07-25-2008 07:14 PM

If I may, "XL" has to do with the load rating of the tire. Audis are heavy cars and the load rating is crucial for performance and safety. You can read up about it on the Tire Rack website.

**CHSA3** · 07-26-2008 09:44 AM

Until I resolve my rubbing issue, I am going to put the stock tires back on, however I would like to add spacers. My 2008, S-Line has an ET 56, running 17 x 7.5 wheels, 225, 45, 17 all season tires, what size of spacer on all 4's will push nearly flush and cause no rubbing? 10mm....15mm? I have been told that 10mm in back and 8mm front will do the trick. Thanks.