Tire size suggestions please...

[grasan]

It's time to replace the OEM's on my 2002 X5 3.0. Std size is 235/65-17. I have to stick to the 17's (kids in college), but would like a "meatier" tire. Any ideas? Thanks!

[dkl]

I'm afraid you can't go much wider than the 235s on the OEM 7.5" wide rims. You might be able to get away with 245s, but you'll see a bit of excessive bulges on the sidewall. You should consider the OEM sports package wheels/tires, which would upgrade you to 255/55-18 tires mounted on 8.5" wide rims. This combo won't ride that much worst than those 17s since you don't have the sport suspension.

[grasan]

Thanks. I would like to go to the 18's or preferably 19's if i could find a set at a reasonable price.

[dkl]

If you're on a budget, then 19s are definitely out of consideration as replacement tires can runs in the $300/tire range I know this well since I'm currently in the market for replacement tires.

18s, on the other hand are very affordable and easy to find on ebay...most of the times, cheaper than just buying 4 new 17" tires.