As of this past week, Tire Rack has announced the discontinuation of the Elbrus wheel brand. The Elbrus brand is made up of six designs of popular wheels, each with its own finish options. Developed to reach new heights in durability, strength and elegant styling, Elbrus uses a high pressure cast, a feature that is rare for wheels in their price point. They also come painted or machined with a clearcoat, durable I.C.E. coating.
Their machined face wheels feature mirror-machined diamond process for optimum shine. This combination of European design flare with advanced manufacturing technology results in excellent value, style, form and function.
Elbrus wheels fit many makes and models and can be purchased at a reduced rate, as many options have been marked down. Of their models, our most popular sellers are the 5-spoke I02 and BMW-styled I08.
Take advantage of this special offer before it's too late!
Starting with 2008 model year cars and light trucks, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has been required for all new vehicles sold in the United States. While some vehicles (Audi and BMW most recently) use the ABS system (or indirect system) to keep watch for a deflating tire, most use a battery powered sensor (based in the base of the valve stem assembly) to give the most accurate read of your tire pressure. When replacing tires or wheels and tires as a complete package, the presence of these remote sensors can require a few extra steps in the purchase and/or installation process.
Why does my installer charge a "TPMS" service fee for installing new tires?
Many of our Recommended Installers will charge a TPMS service fee as part of new tire installation. When the old tire is being removed from your existing wheel, it's best to remove the TPMS sensor (and the attached valve stem). This avoids any damage caused by breaking the tire bead loose from the wheel as well as seating the new tire onto the wheel. Once the sensor has been removed, it will require a new "O" ring and/or compression ring to seal the sensor properly.
What happens if I do not add new TPMS sensors to my Tire & Wheel Package?
When we sell a set of wheel and tires, we're happy to mount and Road Force balance the tires to the wheels at no cost prior to shipment. Given the TPMS sensors are located inside the wheel (opposite the valve stem hole), the sensors (if requested) need to go in the wheel before the tires are installed. Without the sensors installed, most vehicles will display a warning light and chime upon engine start up (the light will continue to blink as long as the engine is running). Some vehicles may also limit your ability to turn off traction control if you need to "rock" out of a snow drift in winter or even limit engine output. In many states, an active TPMS system is required as part of the state's safety inspection, and any illuminated warning lights may cause the vehicle to fail its annual safety inspection. With your purchase, you can elect to add the correct sensor (at an additional cost) or choose to have your existing sensors removed from your old wheels and installed on the new wheel. If run-flat tires are being purchased with new wheels, new sensors are required.
If I purchase new sensors as part of my Tire & Wheel Package, what else needs to be done before use?
Many vehicles require new TPMS sensors be activated or initialized at an authorized repair facility or dealership. This process normally involves connecting the vehicle to a service computer (via the ODB port under your dashboard) and having a technician load the new sensor's ID codes into the car's computer. Most cars will need to have this activation service performed each time wheels and tires are changed out (like when changing from dedicated winter wheels and tires back to your summer/all-season set). As always, consult your owner's manual or contact your dealer for more information.
Many vehicles come equipped with run-flat tires from the manufacturer. Our sales specialists receive many calls from drivers asking if they can replace th
eir run-flat tires with non-run-flat options. There are a few pros and cons when it comes to changing to a non-run-flat tire.
Pros:
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Conventional tires are typically less expensive
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Better ride quality
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Longer lasting
Cons:
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Many vehicles don't have a spare, therefore you won't be able to drive when you get a flat
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When leasing a vehicle, many companies often require vehicles sold with run-flats be returned with them
Switching to conventional tires will not negatively affect the vehicle and will fit on Original Equipment wheels. Also, for those that don't have a spare, take a look at the Continental ContiComfortKit that seals and inflates tire punctures. It's capable of comfortably sealing typical tire punctures that make it possible for you to complete your drive home, to work, an important appointment or a tire repair facility. The ContiComfortKit combines a powerful, high-volume, 12-volt air compressor, integral pressure gauge and a latex liquid sealant packaged in a compact, lightweight unit that's easy to store in your vehicle.
I have experienced first-hand the differences between non-run-flat tires and run-flats. The BMW I owned came with 18" wheels and Bridgestone Potenza RE050A RFT tires and I switched to 19" wheels and the Sumitomo HTR Z III. Normally, increasing the wheel diameter has a negative impact on ride quality, however I thought the conventional tires on larger sized wheels actually rode a little better than the 18" run-flats.
To find the tire that works best for your car, shop by vehicle.
Recently, the following question was posted on one of the BMW forums I moderate: "It's getting close to spring time, and I am just wondering when everyone puts their summer wheels/tires on? I live in Ohio, so I was thinking of putting mine on during the first week of April. Any thoughts? In Cleveland, you never know when the winter will permanently end.
Yes, it's difficult to believe the calendar says another winter season has ended, but that doesn't mean your winter tires have been removed. I'm often asked when is the best time to swap winter / snow tires out for all-season or summer tires? My advice is to wait until the threat of snow is gone. Many are tempted to take off their winter tires early because of an unseasonably warm weekend. However, it's important to remember why you purchased your snow tires in the first place: safety! Is it really worth taking the chance of getting caught in a late-season snowstorm just to have your "fun" tires on a week or two sooner?
If you own a set of all-season tires, you should make the change when low temperatures are consistently above freezing each night and the longer term forecast is showing the same. Getting caught in an early spring dusting shouldn't be an issue as all-season tires can still provide traction in light snow.
Summer performance tires are at their best when it's warmer, as they provide almost no traction in snow. If your area tends to have such unpredictable late freezes, put off the changeover a little longer than you would with all-seasons.
When the time does come, why not do the job yourself? Read "Do You Have the Three Tools Needed to Remove Your Wheels and Tires?" to see how easy it is to replace your winter tires with your non-winter set.
For the enthusiast who takes his/her BMW to the track on a regular basis, using the Original Equipment lug bolts can prove to be cumbersome when removing or replacing wheels frequently. In an effort to support our friends that autocross or race their cars at any level, Tire Rack is proud to offer stud conversion kits for your BMW using 14x1.25 thread pitch studs. The standard kit comes with 20 studs, 20 black lug nuts and a heavy-duty thin wall socket (19mm). The premium kit substitutes the black nuts for a more unique polar light finish. All studs are zinc coated for durability. The 14x1.25 thread pitch reduces the chances of cross threading the lugs over repeated use.
Stud kits aren't just for enthusiasts. They are also used by BMW owners that want to make changing their wheels and tires easier. For the ultimate addition, consider picking up Tire Rack's Cordless Impact Wrench Kit. Whether you're track side or in your garage, this heavy-duty tool generates nearly 206 ft. lb. of torque (enough to break free most bolts or stubborn lug nuts).
Look at the tools we carry to find one that'll be a great addition to your garage!
Do you frequently swap wheels for your BMW or MINI? Anyone who has made the change has probably noticed that lining up the wheel with the lug holes for proper insertion of lug bolts can be a nuisance. You can fiddle with it freehand, or add one extra tool and an extra step to insert a guide pin into one of the lug holes and slide the wheel over that. Either way, you'll find yourself wishing for the simplicity of a traditional lug stud and lug nut arrangement.
Whether you're changing winter and summer packages seasonally, or changing from street wheels to track wheels and back, switching from the factory lug bolts to a stud kit will save you time and trouble. Should you happen to cross-thread a nut, the nut and stud can be replaced more easily than a hub that has had a cross-threaded bolt screwed in.
These kits are currently available in 14x1.25 for models using the fine thread M14 studs. This includes many newer-model BMWs, as well as MINIs built after May 2005. They're available in black (shown above) and polar light.
Important Note: Many BMWs used 12x1.5 thread pitch. Make sure to verify the thread specifications for your BMW before ordering or attempting installation.
As much of the country is dreaming about warmer weather, taking off your winter / snow tires isn't too far away. Which means we will be able to get to feel the rush of driving our ultra high performance sports cars, coupes and sedans!
One of my favorite tires in the Max Performance Summer category is the Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position. This tire has been a long time front runner in the category and is currently in second place only to the Michelin Pilot Super Sport in our Tire Survey Results. In these rankings, the tire receives very high marks in the following areas:
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Hydroplaning resistance
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Wet traction
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Dry traction
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Ride comfort
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Noise comfort
Bridgestone's Potenza S-04 Pole Position does everything well at a moderate price point. Without spending a fortune, the S-04 Pole Position gives you brand name quality, great performance and a tire that has good road manners. This tire has fared very well in both dry and wet traction and continues to be a strong seller for those considering street-friendly performance tires. It's available in a host of sizes ranging between 16" and 20" and widths from 205mm up to 305mm. Take a look at what some of our customers are saying about their experience with this Bridgestone summer tire:
"I replaced the Original Equipment with these and was amazed at the result. Fantastic street tire with excellent grip, low noise and very good steering response. Very pleased with the purchase and I recommend them for performance ranges of aggressive down to mild." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
"By far the best tire I have ever had. I live in Seattle where it rains a lot and I don't hydroplane with these tires. I have a 2001 BMW 540 with rear-wheel drive and the car handles amazing. I never have a problem losing control or grip with this tire. I would definitely get another set when the time comes." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2001 BMW 540
"I doubt there is a better choice for the money. It completely changed the handling of my car for the better." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2009 Pontiac G8 GT
Hankook's Ventus R-S3 provides an affordable street tire that best mimics the grip of a racing slick intended for the track. The R-S3 entered a very competitive group of Extreme Performance Summer tires dominated by the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 and the Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec, both of which are considered excellent dual purpose tires for performance street and occasional track / autocross use. We had the opportunity to compare the Hankook against both these tires, as well as the Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08 and Kumho Ecsta XS on our test track. Results were published in the August 2011 issue of Grassroots Motorsports Magazine. During this test, the R-S3 shaved nearly a full second off the Dunlop's lap time and came in quicker than the Bridgestone, too! Our tester remarked: "The tire inspires confidence from the first turn of the steering wheel, making it easy to attack the course's elements."
Our extensive Tire Survey Results put the Bridgestone Potenza RE-11 just slightly ahead of the Hankook in cornering stability and hydroplaning resistance. With that said, customers really like this tire and have spoken with high praise for this Hankook and say they would buy this tire again!
"I love this tire. I bought it mostly for autocross use. However, I have driven quite a few highway miles now and have had no problems. I'd say this is one of the best performance tires you can buy, especially for the price. Needless to say, I'll be buying another set when the time comes." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2002 Honda S2000
"I purchased this tire for mainly track use and it did not disappoint. The traction was great when accelerating, cornering and braking. I have just purchased another set for my TT. Excellent value!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2007 BMW Z4 M Coupe
Do you want to see if the Hankook Ventus RS-3 is available for sports car, sports coupe or performance sedan? Then shop by vehicle!
BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class? Both options are excellent vehicles, but we've seen a spike in drivers going the E-Class route.
Have you just picked up an E-Class Sedan, Coupe or Cabriolet? If so, and you live in the Snowbelt region, your E-Class is going to need to be equipped with a set of dedicated winter / snow tires. Given the wide variety of E-Class drivers, both Studless Ice and Snow and Performance Winter / Snow tires may be appropriate. Take a look at "Which Winter Performance Category is Right for You?" to see which winter tire is appropriate for how and where you drive.
Winter / Snow Tire Size
Depending on your exact model, Original Equipment sizes range between 17" and 19" including staggered (wider rear tire) fitments. An optimum winter size for most E350 drivers is 235/45R17. The heavier E550 excels with a 245/45R17 size. While the large brakes of the E63 require the use of either 18" or 19" wheels. Given the E63's prodigious horsepower and torque, most E63 drivers are best served by 255/40R18 in the front and 285/35R18 in the rear on 18" wheels or 255/35R19 in the front and 285/30R19 in the rear on 19" wheels.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The E-Class uses valve-stem-mounted direct TPMS sensors priced at $62* each. You can register the TPMS sensors yourself by following the instructions in the owner's manual. There's no additional cost to install the sensors as part of our free mount and balance.
Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for E350 4MATIC
Since you've selected your E350 4MATIC for ultimate safety in the worst conditions, I recommend 235/45R17 Studless Ice and Snow Bridgestone Blizzak WS70s on 17x8 44mm offset bright silver Sport Edition ST3 wheels at $1440*.
Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for RWD E350
If you're a spirited driver who chose a rear-wheel drive E350 for its emphasis on handling, then the 245/45R17 Performance Winter / Snow Pirelli Winter Sottozero Serie II is a better choice. Four of these tires mounted and balanced on Sport Edition ST3 wheels is currently $1488*.
It ca
n be quite a surprise to owners of vehicles equipped with run-flat tires that many shops will not repair a seemingly innocuous puncture. Tires are the only thing touching the ground on your vehicle, so they are integral to safety. As such, sometimes situations that seem manageable, can become quite complex and even frustrating for the consumer.
There's conflict in the guidance offered by some vehicle manufacturers and tire manufacturers in relation to repairing run-flats. For example, BMW explicitly states in their owner's manual that repairing a tire isn't an option. However, one of the larger builders of run-flat tires, Bridgestone, does have a standardized inspection and repair process for their run-flat tires.
Which is correct? The tire manufacturers defer to the vehicle manufacturers. So in the case of run-flats on a BMW, repair isn't an option. The bottom line is you'll have to check your vehicle's owner's manual or with your vehicle manufacturer.
If your tire can't be repaired, tire shaving may be of interest to you to match the remaining tire's tread depths, especially on all-wheel drive vehicles. For additional information on tire shaving, read my previous post "Replacing Less than Four Tires on an AWD Vehicle."
Of course, this can also be an opportunity to start exploring a move to a non-run-flat solution. You can shop by vehicle to find all options suitable for your car.
As of this past week, Tire Rack has announced the discontinuation of the Elbrus wheel brand. The Elbrus brand is made up of six designs of popular wheels, each with its own finish options. Developed to reach new heights in durability, strength and elegant styling, Elbrus uses a high pressure cast, a feature that is rare for wheels in their price point. They also come painted or machined with a clearcoat, durable I.C.E. coating.
2011 BMW X5 xDrive35d Sport Activity
2009 BMW 335i xDrive Sedan
