What Size Tires Can I Put On My BMW i3?
Choosing the right tires for your BMW i3 is key for performance and safety. The BMW i3 comes with specific tire sizes like 155/70R19 and 175/60R19. These sizes depend on the trim level and model. It’s important to find tires that match your vehicle’s specs to keep it running well.
Knowing the tire sizes for your BMW i3 helps you make a smart choice when replacing them. The sizes vary by model and year, including Giga World, Mega World, and Tera World. Finding the right tires ensures a smooth ride. Whether you need summer or winter tires, make sure they fit your BMW i3’s specs for the best performance and safety.
Original BMW i3 Tire Specifications
The BMW i3 has a special tire design. It’s made to reduce rolling resistance for better range. The tire specs change based on the trim and model. It’s key to know the front tire dimensions and rear tire dimensions for a good fit and performance.
The front tire dimensions range from 155/70R19 to 175/55R20. The rear tire dimensions go from 175/60R19 to 195/50R20. Bridgestone is the factory tire brand, known for quality. Here’s a quick look at the original specs:
| Tire Size | Load Index | Speed Rating | Max Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 155/70R19 | 84 | Q | 160 km/h (99 mph) |
| 175/60R19 | 86 | Q | 160 km/h (99 mph) |
| 175/55R20 | 85 | Q | 160 km/h (99 mph) |
Knowing the BMW i3 tire specifications is vital. It helps choose the right replacement tires. This keeps the vehicle’s performance and efficiency top-notch.
Compatible Tire Sizes for BMW i3
Choosing the right tires for your BMW i3 is important. You need to think about load rating, speed rating, and tread pattern. The BMW i3 comes in different sizes, like 155/70R19, 175/60R19, and 195/50R20. The right tires keep your car safe and running well.
The base model BMW i3 uses 155/70 R19 tires. These are Bridgestone Ecopia EP600 all-season tires with a load index of 84Q. For the Giga and Tera trims, the rear tires are 175/60 R19 with a load index of 86Q. It’s key to pick tires that fit your car’s needs for the best performance.
Here are some key points to consider when selecting compatible tire sizes for the BMW i3:
- Load rating: Ensure the replacement tires have the correct load rating to support the vehicle’s weight.
- Speed rating: Choose tires with the correct speed rating to match the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
- Tread pattern: Select tires with a tread pattern that provides optimal traction and handling for the vehicle’s intended use.
By considering these factors and choosing the right replacement tires, BMW i3 owners can ensure their vehicle continues to perform at its best, while also maintaining its safety features. With a range of BMW i3 tire options available, it’s essential to select compatible tire sizes that meet the vehicle’s specifications and provide optimal performance.
Range Impact of Different Tire Sizes
The BMW i3’s range is greatly affected by tire size. Larger tires use more energy, while smaller ones save it. Different sizes also change how the car handles and grips the road.
Finding the right tire size for the BMW i3 is key. The 2018 BMW i3S, for example, changed its tires. This reduced its range by about 10 miles per charge. But, using tires like the 195/55R20 can save money without losing too much range.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Energy efficiency is vital for the BMW i3’s range. Bigger tires use up to 10% more energy. Smaller tires, like the 155/70R19, help save energy and boost range.
Performance Effects
Different tire sizes affect the BMW i3’s performance. Bigger tires, like the 195/50R20, improve handling but use more energy. High-performance tires, like the Momo Toprun M300, offer a good balance.
Battery Range Calculations
Calculating battery range is essential for understanding tire size’s impact. Using tires like the 195/55R20 cuts range by about 10 miles. But, energy-efficient tires, like the 155/70R19, can help maintain range and efficiency.
Winter Tire Options for BMW i3
Driving a BMW i3 in cold weather needs the right winter tires. The i3’s unique tire sizes and narrow tread make it hard to grip snowy and icy roads. Luckily, there are many winter tire options, like the Bridgestone Blizzak LM-500 and Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2.
These tires improve traction and handling in cold weather. They are essential for i3 owners in harsh winters. The Bridgestone Blizzak LM-500 is a top pick for snowy and icy roads. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 is great for those who care about the environment, thanks to its low rolling resistance.
Some key features of these winter tires include:
- Improved traction and handling in cold weather conditions
- Low rolling resistance for improved fuel efficiency
- Excellent performance in snowy and icy conditions
It’s also important to look at the tire sizes and configurations for the BMW i3. The i3 uses 155/70/19 tires for both front and back. This makes it easier to find compatible winter tires. With the right tires, i3 owners can drive safely and confidently in winter.
| Tire Model | Tire Size | Rolling Resistance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone Blizzak LM-500 | 155/70/19 | Medium | $124 |
| Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 | 155/70/19 | Low | $140 |
Choosing the right winter tires for the BMW i3 ensures a safe and enjoyable drive. The Bridgestone Blizzak LM-500 and Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 are excellent choices. Each offers unique features and benefits for i3 owners.
Performance Tire Alternatives
Drivers looking to boost their BMW i3’s performance have several tire options. The Bridgestone Ecopia EP500 and EP600 stand out. They offer better handling and grip. The EP600 gets a SimpleScore of 8.8 and a handling score of 8.5.
The Continental VikingContact 7 is another top choice. It has a SimpleScore of 8.9 and a handling score of 9.0. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 also makes the cut, with a SimpleScore of 8.7 and a handling score of 8.5. Keep in mind, these tires might use more energy and be noisier.
Sport Tire Specifications
Sport tires often come in larger sizes, like 195/50R20. They give better handling and cornering. These tires are perfect for those who love the thrill of driving.
Handling Characteristics
Handling is key in performance tires. Tires like the Bridgestone Ecopia EP500 improve traction and cornering. With sport tire specs, they offer a top-notch driving experience. This makes them a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
Some key features of performance tire alternatives include:
- Improved handling and traction
- Larger tire sizes for enhanced cornering capabilities
- Exceptional SimpleScore and handling scores
- Reduced energy efficiency and increased noise levels
Mixing Tire Sizes on BMW i3
Replacing tires on the BMW i3 needs careful thought. Mixing tire sizes can change how the car performs, stays safe, and uses energy. The BMW i3 owner’s manual suggests using the same size and type on all wheels for best results.
Some might mix sizes to get better performance or save money. But, this can cause uneven wear, less grip, and less stability. The right tire size is key for the BMW i3’s safety and performance.
When mixing tire sizes on the BMW i3, consider these points:
- Make sure the new tires fit the car’s wheels and suspension.
- Check the tire’s load and speed ratings to match the car’s needs.
- Understand how mixing sizes affects the car’s energy use and range.
In summary, mixing tire sizes on the BMW i3 needs careful thought. It’s important to stick with the recommended sizes and seek advice if unsure.
Tire Pressure Requirements
Keeping the right tire pressure is key for the BMW i3. It impacts how well the car performs, stays safe, and uses energy. The needed tire pressure changes based on the car’s trim and model. It’s important to keep the pressure at the recommended level for the best performance and safety.
The front axle needs a minimum tire pressure of 36 psi. The rear axle needs at least 41 psi. If tires are underinflated, they can cause less grip, use more energy, and be less safe. On the other hand, overinflated tires can make the car harder to handle and wear out faster.
Recommended Tire Pressure
| Trim Level | Front Axle Tire Pressure | Rear Axle Tire Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Base Model | 36 psi | 41 psi |
| S Model | 38 psi | 43 psi |
It’s important to check the tire pressure often, like before long drives. This ensures the tires are at the right pressure. By doing this, BMW i3 owners can get the best performance, safety, and energy use.
Common Tire Fitment Issues
BMW i3 owners face common tire fitment problems. The unique sizes and narrow tread patterns make finding the right tires hard. It’s key to look at load rating, speed rating, and tread pattern for the best performance and safety.
Some issues include the wrong tire size, a tire type that doesn’t fit, and not enough clearance. To fix these, picking the right tire size for your BMW i3 is vital. Tires usually last about 20,000 miles, and you might need to replace them every two years.
Here are some important things to think about for common tire fitment problems:
- Wrong tire size can hurt performance and safety
- Not the right tire type can cause uneven wear and less fuel efficiency
- Not enough clearance can damage the car’s suspension and steering
By knowing these common issues and taking steps to solve them, BMW i3 owners can have a safe and smooth ride. Checking tire pressure and tread depth regularly can also help avoid these problems and ensure better tire fitment.
| Tire Type | Load Rating | Speed Rating | Tread Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Tires | 91H | W | Asymmetric |
| Alternative Tires | 91H | W | Symmetric |
Safety Considerations for Tire Selection
Choosing the right tires for your BMW i3 is key to safety. You need to follow load rating and speed rating guidelines. This ensures the tires can handle the car’s weight and speed safely.
Looking at the load rating is important. It changes based on the car’s trim and model. Pick tires that meet or beat the recommended load rating. Also, make sure the speed rating matches the car’s needs for safety and performance.
Load Rating Requirements
The load rating for BMW i3 tires is vital for road safety. The rating is shown by a letter or number on the tire. Choose tires with a rating that meets or goes beyond the car’s needs. Not doing so can lead to tire failure, which is dangerous.
Speed Rating Guidelines
Speed rating is also critical for BMW i3 tires. It’s shown by a letter on the tire. Pick tires with a speed rating that matches or goes beyond the car’s needs. The right speed rating varies by trim and model, so check the manual or manufacturer’s website.
When picking tires for your BMW i3, consider a few things:
- Load rating requirements
- Speed rating guidelines
- Tire width and diameter
- Aspect ratio and sidewall height
- Tread depth and pattern
By keeping these factors in mind and following safety guidelines, BMW i3 owners can get the best tires. This ensures their car is safe and performs well.
| Tire Type | Load Rating | Speed Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 91H | H | $150-$300 |
| High-Performance | 95H | V | $300-$500 |
| Winter | 91H | H | $200-$400 |
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size for your BMW i3 is key. It keeps your car running well, safe, and efficient. The i3’s special tire dimensions and narrow tread need careful thought when picking new tires.
Look at the load rating, speed rating, tread pattern, and size when picking tires. This ensures your car stays in top shape.
Following the advice in this article helps BMW i3 owners pick the best tires. This keeps your car’s performance, safety, and battery life at their best. With tires in the 195/55 R20 size, you can find ones that fit your needs.
Whether you want better energy use, winter driving, or better handling, there’s a tire for you. The right tire makes a big difference in your driving experience and your car’s life.
Stay informed and make smart choices when picking tires. This way, you can keep enjoying your BMW i3 for many years.
