Custom Wheels

I was having lunch with a colleague today, and he was telling me that when he took his summer tires off, the inside edge was down to the cords and the outside was almost at full tread depth. He guessed the culprit was excessive negative camber, probably from his custom springs settling lower than they were when the alignment was set. 

The life of a tire expert usually means that we're paying attention to the tires of many other people: customers first and foremost, but also friends and relatives. Sometimes that means we forget to pay enough attention to our own. I have seen my colleagues (and yes, sometimes myself) running with tires over-inflated or under-inflated. Or driving with too much negative camber, bent wheels, winter tires in the summer, and numerous other sins against proper tire care. 

While defects do happen, modern tires from reputable brands tend to have extremely good quality control. But since everything the car does goes through the tires, it's the tires that often show the results of other problems.

Next time you see strange or premature wear on your tires, talk to an expert about what might be causing it. Finding the real problem early will often save you a lot of expense and frustration later. 

To make sure you get the most out of your tires, check out our Tire & Wheel Owner's Manual. This manual also has links to relevant articles about checking air pressure, proper rotation and other topics on properly caring for your tires.

Having a lower price point than many winter / snow tires, some customers question the effectiveness of the General AltiMAX Arctic. This tire is perhaps not as soft as certain Studless Ice & Snow tires like the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 or Michelin X-Ice Xi3, and it may give up a small amount of ice traction. However, this Studdable Winter / Snow tire has proven quite effective for multiple seasons and continues to get strong reviews by consumers.

As a studdable tire, the AltiMAX Arctic can be sold with studs to further increase traction in the most severe winter conditions. While studded tires are certainly not for everyone and have some negative features, such as reduced dry road handling and increased road noise, the ability to add studs is optional and available for those who desire. It's also important to check with local law enforcement officials to see if studded tires are allowed in your area. To learn more about how studded tires may or may not be right for you this winter, read "Studded Tires for Winter Driving."

As mentioned earlier, customers have been giving the General AltiMAX Arctic great reviews. Take a look at what some of them are saying about their experience with this tire:

"This tire is the best I've ever used in 45 years of driving in Vermont winters!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta S

"Awesome snow tire. Not only was it one of the cheaper tires in my size, but one of the best reviewed - and I can see why. My rear-wheel drive BMW got around our 6", one-day snow accumulation as good as any of the 4WD trucks I've had in the past. It is a beast of a tire in the snow, and still very quiet on the highway. If this tire can get a BMW through a North Dakota winter, I'd be confident using it anywhere!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 BMW 330CI Performance Package

"Fantastic winter tire at a great value price. Ride and noise are good to very good. Ride and cornering are amazing being better than the factory standard tire on this vehicle. Snow traction is good in all conditions and really snow plows through deeper conditions. Ice performance is very good. I have purchased this tire for two vehicles to date and recommend it to my friends as an affordable option for a great winter tire." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2012 Nissan Altima Sedan

To see if the General AltiMAX Arctic tire is right for your application this winter, shop by vehicle.

Selecting wheels for a vehicle is subjective based upon one's taste and ultimately up to each individual customer. Here at Tire Rack, we offer many different brands to suit the various tastes of our customers.

While I'm frequently asked, "What wheel would look best on my car?", I must admit it's a very difficult question to answer. Even though I've been customizing cars for years and certainly have my thoughts as to how things should be done, my feelings don't always match that of the consumer. 

When I do weigh in, I try to recommend wheels that aren't overstated, of good quality and are as purposeful as possible. For customers looking for a wheel that is durable, good looking and extremely lightweight, one of my favorite choices is Enkei's PF01. 

Part of the Enkei Racing Series family, this product weighs as little as 10 lbs. in certain sizes and maintains a much lower price point than other high-end wheel manufacturers. The broad range of bolt patterns and sizing of this wheel allows it to be used on a wide variety of vehicles.

The 4x100 bolt pattern is a popular choice for Honda and Mazda Miata owners, while the 5x114 option has proven to be very popular on countless other makes and models. Besides the physical allure of this wheel, it's proven quite handy when trying to clear Big Brake Kits due to its large amount of spoke clearance.

When considering aftermarket wheels or aftermarket rims as they are commonly called, take a look at many of the various wheels from Enkei. With many wheels to chose from, your tastes doesn't have to exactly mirror my own.

America's best-selling pickup truck, the Ford F-150, deserves Tire Rack's best-selling tires. Many F-150 owners are passionate about their truck and hold on to them for a long period of time. Most owners even go through multiple sets of tires, due to the truck's long-lasting dependability. With that in mind, Ford truck owners want nothing but the best for their pickup.

I believe the best Highway All-Season tire for this vehicle is the Michelin LTX M/S2. This tires does it all and is exactly what you would expect from Michelin. It has superior all-season traction, a smooth and quiet ride and is offered with a 70,000-mile treadlife warranty.

If you're looking to get a little dirty and go off-road with the truck, one of the best On-/Off-Road All Terrain tires is the Firestone Destination A/T. This tire has been around for many years, but it never gets old. It takes on all newcomers and is still a best-selling tire in its class. Featuring Firestone's UNI-T technology, the tire blends off-road traction with enhanced on-road capabilities. UNI-T is a combination of technologies that merge a comprehensive design method with innovative manufacturing features for improved tire comfort, performance and wear.

Finally, if you're looking for F-150 tires to handle winter's worst condition, then go with the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1. This tire simply gets it done on ice and in the snow. With a focus on ice traction and braking, as well as wet road handling and hydroplaning resistance, this tire provides wintertime driving competence. Blizzak DM-V1 radials meet the industry's severe snow service requirements and are branded with the mountain/snowflake symbol.

Michelin LTX M/S 2

Firestone Destination A/T

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1

All three tires have provided our customers with the driving experience they've been looking for and their comments prove this:

"I've had these tires on my truck for two weeks and they are just outstanding. They grip the road like glue in the rain. On the dry pavement they handle superb. They don't roll or pitch in the corners. You won't be sorry if you buy them." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2005 Ford F-150 XLT Sup Cab 4wd (Michelin LTX M/S2)

"Absolutely, hands down, the best all-terrain tire on the market. 90% on-road driving, 10% off-road. I wouldn't hesitate to drive my truck through anything with these. I've had more aggressive tires which gave up handling. These are a no compromise tire. Buy them ASAP if you're in the market before Firestone realizes they are worth double the price!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2011 Ford F-150 XLT 4wd Super Crew (Firestone Destination A/T)

"After reading the reviews for this tire and other winter traction tires, I decided on the Blizzaks. Best snow tire ever! I live in the Pacific Northwest and drive in varied conditions: compact snow and ice, deep snow, slush, water, uphill, etc. Great traction in all conditions. I hardly ever need to use four-wheel drive. I would highly recommend these tires to anyone, and I will never buy anything else." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2010 Ford F-150 Platinum 4x4 Super Crew (Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1)

If you own a classic muscle car or custom street rod and are looking for period-correct tires, you're likely aware that your options are becoming extremely limited. As vehicles roll off the assembly lines every day with larger Original Equipment wheel sizes, classic tire sizes in 14" and 15" are becoming harder to come by.

To narrow down the field, most owners of classic vehicles prefer to maintain the original styling the car came with in its respective era. The original styling of the 60s, 70s and early 80s is often identified with branded raised white letters on a tire's sidewall. 

While stock levels in various brands have diminished over the years, Tire Rack is still proud to offer BFGoodrich's iconic tire, the Radial T/A in 22 sizes. This Performance All-Season tire features a look that many consumers are attracted to and is priced more cost-effectively than you might expect if you've been looking for Original Equipment reproductions.

Ranging in outside diameters between 24" and 29" and widths from 205mm - 295mm, these tires are a favorite for muscle car owners or anyone looking to tackle a custom project. 

The Range Rover Sport model is a perfect blend of off-road prowess and high performance capability. It offers one of the most sophisticated all-wheel drive systems and can come equipped with a supercharged V8 for unbelievable performance on paved roads. However, there are not many choices in the 275/40R20 size the vehicle needs. As limited as the choices are in this size, there are three standouts when it comes to complementing the high horsepower Range Rover Sport.

Continental ExtremeContact DWS

Yokohama Parada Spec-X

Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza

If you're a spirited driver looking for a tire that'll provide great steering response and cornering feel while retaining all-season use, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS and Yokohama Parada Spec-X will be perfect choices. Both tires are high speed rated all-season tires while the Continental boosts a very high rating for snow and ice traction. Directional tread pattern on the Yokohama gives this tire very high marks in wet weather and hydroplaning resistance.  

If ride comfort and low road noise are your biggest concerns, the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza is definitely one of the quietest and smoothest tires offered for the Range Rover Sport. The Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza is also very a capable in light snow and wet weather situations.

Take a look at what customers are saying about their experiences with these three tires:

"Much better than the Original Equipment - quieter and softer ride. At the same time, they give a very positive steering feedback and less susceptible from grooves in the road. Very pleased." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport (Continental ExtremeContact DWS)

"Improvement over the Original Equipment. Rides better, handles better, looks better and definite increase in traction and braking. Aggressive tread pattern with extra weight capacity and all-season traction makes for a great package." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged (Yokohama Parada Spec-X)

"These tires have performed well and the tread still has many miles left on them. With 25,000 miles on them, I still have excellent snow and ice traction and stability. I have no complaints about this tire, especially at the price point." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE (Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza)

To view the full list of tires available for your Range Rover Sport search by vehicle and find the option best suited for your driving needs.

This time of year, many customers choose to purchase a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package to assist with wintertime traction. With a new set of tires, comes the need to store all-season or summer tires for the long months ahead. 

Whether you're looking to preserve your expensive factory wheels or aftermarket pieces, Tire Rack's Seasonal Tire Totes allow for convenient storage of your wheels and tires while remaining cost-effective. Not only will they provide a storage option during these coming winter months, they are equally useful when putting your dedicated winter package into retirement once spring arrives.

Features and Benefits of the Seasonal Tire Totes:

• Sold in pairs
• One size fits tires 22" to 31" in overall diameter and up to 295mm section width
• Extra strong handle for easy transport
• Holds over 80 lbs.
• Hook and loop closure for easy insertion and snug fit
• Machine washable
• Rugged polyester/nylon materials and construction for years of use
• Black with silver accents
• Screen-printed with Tire Rack's logo

Easily transport extra tires and keep your garage organized this winter with the Seasonal Tire Totes from Tire Rack.

The Competition Package (ZCP) for the BMW M3 includes 19" wheels that are a half-inch wider than the standard options. We commonly recommend 235/35R19 on the front and 255/35R19 on the rear for a typical M3 Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package, but those sizes will give a stretched look on the ZCP wheels. While the 9" and 10" wide wheels are technically within the recommended range for these tire sizes, winter tires tend to run slightly narrow, and the net result is a tire that looks like it's stretched to fit the wheel. 

A better solution when using ZCP wheels for winter driving is the combination of 255/35R19 front and 275/35R19 rear tires. While the wider sizes are generally not preferred for deep snow use, they're the better choice for this particular wheel application. Bridgestone's Blizzak LM-60 is offered in these size configurations for the 2012-13 winter season. If you need narrower tires for more severe snow and ice conditions, an 18" Winter Tire & Wheel Package would be the recommended size.

See what customers are saying about their experience with the Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 to help you in your search for a winter tire:

"Totally impressed with the ice and snow traction from these Blizzaks. Being a rear-wheel drive car, they really hook up and get me going. Deep snow or ice-covered roads are no problem for these. Good job, Bridgestone!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS500

"I have had these tires for about two months and I can say that they perform very well in winter conditions. Being a powerful car (2002 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Coupe), these tires have never come close to slipping when starting and stopping on ice. I fully endorse and recommend these tires to anybody with a smaller, AWD sports car." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2002 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Coupe

"This is the premier winter tire, and for good reason. Never again will I go another Wisconsin winter without a set of these. It's literally a night and day difference when driving on this tire in the snow, slush and ice. We recently experienced one of the worst snow storms here in Southeast Wisconsin - part of my area got hit with more than 20" of snow in less than a day. Even in the unplowed driveways and side streets, I was able to get to work the next day with no problems!' -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2007 Volkswagen GTI

"These tires shined in the Chicago Blizzard in early 2011. When most people were sitting and spinning, I was confidently driving forward." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 Infiniti G35 Coupe Performance Wheel Package

Create a Winter/ Snow Tire & Wheel Package that's right for your application.

A very common question that arises when customers are shopping for tires and wheels relates to the Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). While they've been around for well over a decade, Federal regulation has mandated vehicle manufacturers provide TPMS as Original Equipment on model year 2008 and newer vehicles. Even though these systems are very prolific in the marketplace, there is still a lot of confusion about how the systems work and what needs to be done when buying new sensors.

In my previous blog post, "What About TPMS Sensors for My Winter Wheels?", I went over the differences between direct and indirect systems. However, what do you do when you purchase new sensors with your Tire & Wheel Package?

When working with an indirect system, you can reset the system from inside the vehicle. If you're changing your wheel's diameter, which is very popular when purchasing a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package, you're going to need to adjust the tire sizing to maintain a similar overall diameter. While Tire Rack makes every attempt to keep the rolling circumference the same, inevitably there may be some small variation. Since the indirect systems are calibrated based on the circumference, even a small variance should be recalibrated.

In the case of the more popular direct system, the computer in the vehicle needs to be informed of the sensor change. The procedure to make this update varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some systems are very straight forward, where you simply drive a short period of time and the sync is automatic. In some cases, you'll be required to go back to the dealership where they will take care of the changeover for you.

To help verify the correct procedure for your application, contact one of our sales specialists. You can also check out our tech article, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Servicing" for further assistance.

While most of the new developments in winter / snow tire technology are in the Studless Ice & Snow performance category, studdable snow tires remain a solid option for winter driving. Studdable winter tires tend to have a little longer treadlife than their studless counterparts, and are often some of the best-priced options in a given size. The combination of long wear and low cost make them an excellent choice for drivers needing a value-oriented winter solution.

The two most common tires in this category are the General AltiMAX Arctic and Firestone Winterforce. These tires come in a variety of sizes and are even offered in some LT versions that are rated for 3/4- and 1-ton vehicles. Both are very capable in the snow, and have received excellent reviews from our customers.

General AltiMAX Arctic

Firestone Winterforce

Take a look at what customers are saying about their experience with the General AltiMAX Arctic:

"I used the General AltiMAX Arctic tires on my 2008 Honda Fit Sport for three winters in upstate New York, two of which had significant snowfall. These tires exceeded my expectations and provided excellent traction and control. With these snow tires, I was able to drive in heavy snow and on some very icy roads with no difficulty. I highly recommend these tires for the Honda Fit." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2008 Honda Fit Sport

"Excellent winter tire for the money. Transformed my rear-wheel drive Volvo into a snow machine. I have much more confidence driving in the winter than with my all-season tires. We see a wide variation of winter weather in Kentucky so it's nice to feel prepared for anything." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 1991 Volvo 940 SE

Also, check out what drivers are saying about the capabilities of the Firestone Winterforce in winter conditions:

"Unbelievable difference from all-season tires. I live in a Pittsburgh neighborhood where we need to climb a substantial hill to get home. If it snows any considerable amount, my neighbors are parking their cars and walking. I climb right up the hills and have no problem getting home. Very impressed! Nice job, Firestone!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2009 Honda Accord Sedan EX 4cyl

"These Winterforce tires have worked superbly on our 2002 Volvo S40. We live in Maine so there is plenty of snow and ice and they work great in all of it. Excellent tire at a very good price." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2002 Volvo S40

Studdable tires are sold without studs by default. Customers who want additional ice traction can opt to add studding for $15 per tire. Some areas do not allow the use of studs, or restrict their use to certain times of year, so make sure to check your local regulations before ordering tires with studs installed. For more information on studded tires, read "Studded Tires for Winter Driving."

An often overlooked aspect during the Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package research process is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Starting with the 2008 model year, Federal regulations require TPMS on all passenger vehicles. Most use a direct system which attaches a pressure sensor to the vehicle's wheels. An in-vehicle receiver warns the driver if the pressure in any tire falls below a predetermined level. Direct systems are typically more accurate and reliable and most are able to indicate which tire is underinflated. To learn more about the differences in TPMS sensors, read "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

While these sensors vary in price, they are worth the cost as they provide a safety feature to your driving experience. While not required in most states, it is recommended that you maintain the system with your winter tires and wheels. In some locations, vehicle inspection regulations require operating tire pressure monitoring sensors on every vehicle that came with TPMS as Original Equipment. The following states require the TPMS to be functional in order to pass inspection:

• Hawaii
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• West Virginia

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also recently modified how installers must deal with these systems when it comes to swapping wheels and tires. To help verify the latest information for your application and how these rules may affect your vehicle, contact one of our sales specialists for assistance. 

Tire Rack works with wheel manufacturers to develop aftermarket wheels that accommodate direct tire pressure monitoring sensors. This results in our ability to provide a wider selection of aftermarket alloy wheel styles that accept Original Equipment direct system components. Our fitment specialists also carefully determine which wheels will be compatible with the vehicle and system installed for customers purchasing Tire & Wheel Packages or wheel upgrades. Search results on our site include notes regarding TPMS sensors and sensors can confidently be purchased online with wheels.

The collaboration between Subaru and Toyota has created a lot of buzz and anticipation for car enthusiasts. Both companies had previous success in the sports car market with the Toyota Supra and Subaru SVX, and drivers have been waiting for a fun sports car from both again. This new rear-wheel drive platform promises to reignite the fan base of both manufacturers.

Tire Rack's parking lot now has a nice assortment of both the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ in many colors and customized in different ways. Our employees that bought these new sports cars knew what was approaching this winter. All of the Subaru BRZ models and a majority of the Scion FR-S vehicles came factory installed with 215/45R17 Michelin Primacy HP tires, which is a Grand Touring Summer tire. If you drive the BRZ or FR-S in cold weather, snow and ice, a separate set of winter / snow tires will be needed.

We offer plenty of options to keep your new BRZ or FR-S going when winter weather is at its worst. Take a look at the cost-effective recommended Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package consisting of the 205/55R16 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 mounted to a 16X6.5 black steel wheel. We'll also install new TPMS sensors in your winter package for an additional $62 per wheel.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

Black Steel Wheel

If you would like to reuse your existing 17" wheels, you can mount the 215/45R17 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 to your current wheels. Keep in mind you'll have to pay someone to mount and balance your summer and winter / snow tires twice per year, so buying wheels with your winter tires can pay for themselves relatively quickly.

Create a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for your Scion FR-S or Subaru BRZ today!

Last winter, Goodyear unveiled a new Studless Ice & Snow tire, the Ultra Grip Ice WRT. Developed for passenger-carrying coupes, sedans, minivans and crossover vehicles, the tire meets the industry's severe snow service requirements and is branded with the mountain/snowflake symbol.

Goodyear's Winter Reactive Technology combines innovative features working together to help drivers react to changing winter driving conditions when starting, stopping and turning in snow and on ice. This highly directional and multi-siped tread design will channel water and slush away from under the tire's footprint to enhance traction and handling in cold, wet and wintry conditions.

Available in over 30 sizes ranging between 15 and 19 inches, the Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT fits a variety of vehicles. Take a look at what a few of our customers are saying about their experience with this Studless Ice & Snow tire from Goodyear:

"These tires are great in winter conditions or when the roads are wet." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2008 Honda Civic Sedan EX-L

"I live in Northwest Colorado, and these tires are fantastic on my FWD sedan. I am a fairly spirited driver and they haven't let me down. I only wish every vehicle out there had these, instead of sliding all over the road in their all-season tires. Highly recommend for drivers in regions with heavy snowfall and icy winters." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2008 Saturn Aura XR

"If these are not the best snow/ice tires out there, I don't know what is. I installed these on my Chrysler 300 four weeks ago and have been extremely impressed. We had freezing rain this week in Maine and the roads were a sheet of ice. The Goodyears literally felt like they were glued to the road! My 300 was helpless in the snow before these tires. No problem now!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2005 Chrysler 300 Base Rear Wheel Drive

As you may know, Tire Rack is a mail order company, so we don't have traditional local retail locations where you can shop for our products. However, we do have a handful of distribution centers across the country where we ship our products from, and you can also pick up your order in person.

Orders can be picked up at the following distribution centers:

• Windsor, Connecticut
• Midway, Georgia
• Shreveport, Louisiana
• South Bend, Indiana
• McCarran, Nevada

Note: With the exception of our South Bend, Indiana facility, our distribution centers do not offer installation. Local sales taxes do apply to any purchase that is picked up. Also, the credit card holder must be present at time of pick up along with a photo ID. 

Do you live in an area that's not near one of our distribution centers? No problem. We have a list of nationwide Recommended Installers that can provide professional and affordable installation of the tires, wheels and other products you purchase from Tire Rack. All of our Installers are carefully screened to ensure they have the right equipment and experience to satisfactorily serve our customers. In fact, to become a Recommended Installer a company must meet our uncompromising criteria:

1. Use proper mounting and balancing equipment including touchless or rim clamp, European-style tire changers and high-speed computer spin balancers.
2. Employ properly trained technicians capable of safely performing damage-free installations.
3. Be an automotive business that can offer additional services to customers (alignments, complete repairs, auto detailing, etc.)
4. Possess a positive attitude and the ability to treat Tire Rack's customers with the highest level of professional courtesy.

Only after these criteria are met is a company approved to become one of our Recommended Installers.

You can see exact quotes for installation by choosing a Price Pledge Installer while in search results. Price Pledge Plus Recommended Installers not only participate in our Price Pledge program but they are also Installers who consistently achieve a 4.5-star or above overall ranking in our survey results. Installers who participate in the Price Pledge program agree to display exact quotes for installation services based on tire aspect ratio. Additional or optional related installation fees are also displayed.

For more information on tire aspect ratios and installation, check out one of my previous posts, "Installation is Even Easier!"

Many of our customers know about the potential advantages of going to a smaller wheel size when selecting a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package. When minus sizing, not only would deep snow traction be enhanced, but the cost of a winter package is usually lower than a package maintaining your vehicle's original size tires and wheels. An additional advantage higher profile tire sizes offer is they feature taller sidewalls and smaller diameter wheels that more easily resist damage associated with winter road hazards and early spring potholes. However, we often receive questions from customers looking for wheels who only see equal or larger sized wheels when shopping, and nothing smaller than what is Original Equipment on their car.

In some cases, the size that's on your vehicle may be the smallest size possible that will still clear your vehicle's brakes. For most cars, it's possible to go smaller, you just have to know where to look. One way is to shop for a Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package rather than searching for wheels in our website's wheels section. Tire Rack's Preferred Winter Package often feature alternate sizes that combine smaller diameter wheels with narrower, higher profile tires that have equivalent load capacities and overall diameters. Unfortunately, wide, low profile tires have to "plow" a wide path through deep snow, where narrower tires have an easier time. So if you're likely to drive through deep snow this year, you'll want winter / snow tires and wheels in sizes that better help you.

Your winter tire and wheel sizes should be based on one of the following:

Your Vehicle's Original Equipment Tire and Wheel Size

While not a dimensional advantage, winter tires and wheels in the Original Equipment size to replace your all-season or summer tires will offer more traction in cold temperatures, slush, snow and ice.

The Tire and Wheel Size from Your Vehicle's Base Model

This is often an easy way to select an appropriate narrow tire for your car, van or truck. While this may only provide a small dimensional difference, a smaller combination (for example, 225/50R17-sized tires to 215/60R16-sized tires on 16" wheels) will reduce your cost while increasing your vehicle's wintertime traction.

A Minus Size Tire and Wheel

Minus Sizing combines taller profile tires with smaller diameter wheels.

Begin finding a smaller diameter wheel for your winter driving by searching for Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package!

BMW has rolled out its latest F30 3 Series platform and there are many changes from the previous E90 3 Series. The winter / snow tires and wheels from your BMW E90 can't be directly transferred to your new F30. Major items that make the swap incompatible are the much larger diameter tires and different TPMS hardware. Now may be the time to think about upgrading your winter tires and wheels for your new F30 in order to be ready for the harsh winter conditions on the way.

The BMW F30 328 can minus size down to a 16" wheel and the F30 335 can minus size down to a 17" wheel. We offer an assortment of product options catered specifically to BMW customers. For example, a recommended Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package for a 2013 BMW 328i xDrive would be the 225/55R16 Bridgestone Blizzak WS60 mounted to 16" Sport Edition A7 wheels in your choice of a black painted or silver painted finish. Sport Edition A7 wheels also allow you the option to use factory BMW center caps to complete the package.

Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

Sport Edition A7 - Silver Painted

Sport Edition A7 - Black Painted

A similar package can be chosen for the 2013 BMW 335i, however it would need the 225/50R17 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 tire mounted to the same Sport Edition A7 wheels in 17" instead of the 16" that's used on the 328i model.

Possibilities are endless for wheel and tire options to complement your new BMW F30 3 Series. To view products specifically tailored for you vehicle, use our Upgrade Garage and you can easily switch between product category results with one click.

While the new Subaru Outback, BMW X3 and other mid-size SUVs are built for limited off-road duty, the 17" wheels that come from the factory all but eliminate the possibility of getting tires up to the challenge. The Original Equipment tires on most of these vehicles are built for a quiet and comfortable ride, but leave some yearning for more snow and mud traction when roads get rough. Enter the Yokohama Geolandar A/T-S in the 225/60R17 tire size for vehicles like the current generation Subaru Outback, BMW X3, Honda Element, Hyundai Tucson and older Toyota RAV4 models.

The Geolandar A/T-S features multi-stepped grooves and staggered center blocks to give multiple biting edges for great traction in loose dirt and wintry roads. Yokohama was sure to add aggressive sidewall protectors near the tire's shoulders to increase loose-surface grip while they help minimize sidewall cuts and abrasions from rocks, stumps and the occasional curb.

Our customer's reviews and survey results have been very positive, putting the Geolandar A/T-S in the top ten for the category. Even with impressive off-road capability, the tire is also tuned to provide long life and even wear. In the 225/60R17 size, Yokohama provides a strong 50,000-mile warranty for peace of mind.

Shop by vehicle to see if the Geolandar A/T-S is available for your SUV.

Even though it is still summer on the calendar, this is the time of year when we start thinking about winter / snow tires. The tire manufacturers are starting to deliver their products for this winter.

Many of our longtime customers are already calling to order their Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Packages. If you have not used winter tires recently, or if you have not had to drive much in the snow before, check out "Winter Tire FAQs."

Since winter tires are built seasonally, they're not always readily available if we run out of stock. Depending on supply and demand, some of the more popular options can sell out before the real winter snowfall arrives. September and October are ideal times to make a winter / snow purchase. Not every winter item has come in stock yet, but most are either here or on their way. 

Since our team drives on many of the tires we offer, our testing allows us to recommend the right winter tire for you to handle Mother Nature's toughest conditions. To see how we select the correct tire for your winter driving needs, read " We Know How They Go in Ice and Snow."