Winter Wheels/Tires: NPOCP?

Kinja'd!!! "sellphones2493" (sellphones2493)
08/19/2016 at 12:14 • Filed to: None

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I need winter wheels/tires for the S4. I’ve looked on TireRack, and I can get a decent set for $1,300 delivered (not installed). However , I found these near me (I’ll still have to drive 2.5 hours) for $ 850 . Good deal?

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They’re ASA GT8 (19") with a set of Bridgestone Blizzaks (LM-32) with less than 5k on them...they came off of a 2011 Audi S5.

They have a bit of curb rash, but in overall good shape. I’m just not sure having such big wheels and low profile winter tires is the best decision for someone who frequents the mountains a lot (live in Colorado), or does this matter?

The Other Option:
18" Moda MD23 Wheels with Pirelli Sottozero 3 Tires: $1237.20
19" Avarus AV15 Wheels with Pirelli Sottozero 3 Tires: $1568.80


DISCUSSION (10)


Kinja'd!!! dogisbadob > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 12:17

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Remember that winter tires are only good in the snow to 5/32 tread, not all the way down to 2/32. So that 5k on them is more than it seems.

Is 19" he size you’re shopping for on Tire Rack?


Kinja'd!!! sellphones2493 > dogisbadob
08/19/2016 at 12:19

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I’m looking at 18"


Kinja'd!!! Out, but with a W - has found the answer > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 12:20

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Biggest issue with big wheels is that replacement tires are hideously expensive. Other than that, it’s more a case of tire width than profile for winterability.


Kinja'd!!! jjhats > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 12:25

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I would keep looking for 18". you should go as small as your brakes allow. also consider building a set e.g. wheels for 250 tires 250 and mounting 100 saves you 250 bucks. I run blizzaks on ASA for winter and have no complaints


Kinja'd!!! Arrivederci > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 12:45

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I think I’d want a meatier sidewall. But if you can talk them down a bit, may be worth it versus the more expensive options.


Kinja'd!!! Rico > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 13:07

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Get an accurate number on the amount of tread left first


Kinja'd!!! Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 13:19

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Also, make sure you check the date on the tires. Often with winter tires, you will run past the expiration date before treadwear. Unless you really drive a lot in the winter. They should only be good for 5 or 6 years at most, regardless of tread. That might be overly conservative but it is worth noting how old the tires are.


Kinja'd!!! Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > dogisbadob
08/19/2016 at 13:22

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Well that’s true for snow use, not necessarily just winter use right? I would imagine they would still be good for traction in cold but dry weather. I know 90% of my snow tire use has just been operating in sub 30 degree weather but no snow on the road.


Kinja'd!!! AfromanGTO > sellphones2493
08/19/2016 at 13:23

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What are winter tires? lol


Kinja'd!!! dogisbadob > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%)
08/19/2016 at 13:27

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Yes, they’ll still be good in cold dry weather.