by Reed on December 12, 2009
Yes and no…
The wheels will fit, the offset and lug pattern are compatible.
The problem is the E90 (and even E46) tire sizes are slightly larger than the E36.
So if you fit a take-off wheel and tire set from an E90 car, your speedometer will read slightly low. But it’s not a big deal unless you lower your car – then, it might scrape against your wheel well/fender.
by Reed on December 12, 2009
I plan to buy custom wheels for it.
NO! When you buy a vehicle, any vehicle, it has to be road worthy right off the show room floor. You can buy the car, then take the car to a tire and wheel shop and sell the tires and wheels to the shop. Personally, having an extra set of wheels and tires for winter use is a smart way to go, unless you live somewhere that doesn’t have inclement weather in the winter, like SanDiego, CA. You can also sell the wheels and tires on Craigslist and put that money towards the purchase of the new ones.
by Reed on December 12, 2009
I have a 2006 BMW 325i with the stock 16" aluminum wheels. Is it possible for me to put 17" wheels and tires in the well, or will that mess something up? I’m hoping to install some new chrome wheels, but I don’t know if that’ll be a problem. Can somebody please help me with this please? Thank you!
Yes, you can install 17 inch wheels on your 325i provided the wheels are Bona-fied BMW hub centering wheels with the correct width and offset. If you have the wheels available, it would be very wise to mount the new wheels as a trial on both the front and rear of your car to be sure there is adequate clearance for the tire, steering arms, and fender lip, especially in the front.
by Reed on December 12, 2009
Other than tire size and overall diameter, what wheel dimensions affect suitability? And is there a web site that give all details for wheels and tires for all cars?
the first thing to consider is how many lugs each wheel has, 4 or 5, then if the diameter is smaller you have a good chance the smaller wheel, if its not the stock one, will hit the brake caliper. then you have to figure out if the backspacing is correct. this is where the inner part of the wheel to the outer part is the same in measurement. if not it could also rub especially when turning on the front wheels. i have been a technician for almost 10 years but you could also take your car and the winter wheels you want to use to a tire store and have them do the measurements and tell you if they would work or not. good luck!