Fleece82

Hi guys, I'm goin b purchasing an s4. It has 19" wheels. I found Bridgestone blizzak tires in 255/35/19 which is stock size. However dealer is telling me that Audi only recommends 18" wheels and tires for snow/winter tires. Anyone heard such things? Anyone running 19" winter tires? Any issues?

moose_head

Never heard of such a manufacturer recommendation but dropping to 245-40-18 (same size specs as the 18" option for the S4) is reasonable. A bit cheaper and theoretically better in winter because it's a bit narrower. I guess it comes down to if you want the 19" look. I run the 18" in winter, 19" in summer.

roadkillrob

You get much more choice with 18's and narrower tires are generally better in the snow, not to mention 18's are much cheaper than 19's for snow tires.

Vito321

I just went to 18" Bridgestone Blizzak WS-80 for my 2014 S-4 & they have performed well over the last month. I also like the higher sidewall on the winter tire which to some degree may protect the wheel from any damage that might be encountered. If you do go the 18" wheel, don't forget to reset the tire pressure monitor.

StumpJumper

I would expect that your dealer is just trying to sell you another set of wheels with that "recommendation."

While I personally think a dedicated set of 18 inch wheels for snow tires is the best option it's by no means a requirement.

Audis or VWs 4Life

You are MUCH better off getting a set of 18's and snow tires to match said 18's. Here is why, the price for the 19" snow tires for the S4 is about equal to that of a cheap set of 18's (keep in mind they're for snow use you don't need BBS's) and 18" snows.

When I ran the prices a few weeks ago it came out to about ~1150 for 4 19" snow tires. You then have to mount/balance them so that's another 160ish. For that money you have a set of 18" rims and snow tires to match, and come winter/summer you just take one set of wheels off and throw another set on. The mount and dismount costs at 320-350 a year will come back to bite you every year.

Audis or VWs 4Life

Here is what I mean:

19" tires only


18" wheels and tires!

littleredwagen

I am running those 19" blizzacks due to the size if my front brakes. They. Are just fine so far

Thumper3

Of course, if the car came with 19s you have to factor the cost of the 18" wheels to go with the tires into the cost comparison.


18s will be better, more cushion for hidden bumps/potholes, narrower.....but a "requirement"? Yeah, sounds like they wanted to get you for the $3000 "winter tire package".


You can get some inexpensive 18" wheels and wrap them in snow rubbers for not a lot of money.

westwest888

This is what you want to order:

235/40R19 Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 N-Spec Blackwall Directional N0(Porsche) 92V