Gbob

I have the 20 inch rims on my '16TTS. First, one, now two tires have bulges on the sidewalls (Pirelli's).
I can't say I have driven these hard, nor have I hit any potholes that would explain this problem.
Has anyone else had this occur? I know these skinny tires are subject to enormous stress, so I am hesitant about keeping these rims.
Are there any tires you would recommend over the Pirelli's? or, should I just sell them and get 19" rims?
Thanks Bob

pharrelson

I have the Pirelli 20’s and I don’t have the issue. Are your tires aired up properly? You may have an issue there?

ormandj

It's a pothole or something of that nature you didn't notice. Switch to 19s and 35 profile tires or watch the road like a hawk. Been there, done that myself. Also, make sure to have the wheel checked, it is quite possibly bent.

Also, if you haven't already, those tires need to be replaced asap. It's extremely dangerous to drive on tires with sidewall bulges. When they let loose, they tend to be full blowouts.

TTSWV

I also have the Pirelli 20’s. 18k on the car, I'd say about 5k was with snow tires. No problems.

Huey52

btw: Interesting that BMW now flags 20" wheels as pothole risk, e.g.:

Gbob

I think I will be selling the 20" rims, anyone want to trade for 19"?
B

Fun101

That's very interesting. I could see how that could be the case...the road is very close to the wheel on the 20's. I've had to patch 2 nails but otherwise, given my high mileage, I feel like I've been quite lucky with the condition of my tires. I think I will switch out to snows earlier than later this year.

Nas Toronto

I haven't had any issues. That said I love my 20's, yes they're harsher than the 19's but they look awesome and our roads are pretty good here.

Huey52

I just put on my winter 18" rims with Michelins (34 degf this am) and it really is remarkable how much more comfortable the ride. Of course handling performance drops from excellent to very good given OEM 19" with summer tires.

Jeffc

Bob,
I agree with Huey. I just put my winter 18s on my TTS (stock TT wheels with Pirelli P Zero A/S+ tires). Incredibly more comfortable than the 19s with stock Hankook tires. With the taller sidewall and AS tread the handling is not quite as sharp, but it is still the best I've ever owned and very entertaining. Once the Hankooks are worn out I'll probably never use the 19s.