Yet another tire question
 

Hi - I'm new here and have been reading as many posts that I can. I've already learned a ton but have been unable to find a specific answer I'm looking for. I apologize in advance if the answer is already out there.

I just got an '06 X5 4.4i w/ the Sports, Cold Weather and Premium Packages. Had it shipped from CA to CO. It currently has staggered Michelin 4X4 Diamaris (255/50/19, 285/45/19). According to the last inspection, all 4 tires need to be replaced.

Being in CO I'd like to change over to an all-season (although I may get dedicated snows next winter). I sometimes drive on dirt roads and am looking for something a bit more "rugged". I read that many posters here recommended the Michelin Latitude Hp's. And of course, seeing as how it's Colorado, chances are I could still run into some snow for quite a while.

So here's my question. "Tirerack' recommends the Latitudes (amongst others) but when I add them to my cart I get a message stating:

"The following tire you have selected has a higher load rating than the vehicle's Original Equipment (O.E.) tires. This typically results in increased ride harshness, which some customers may find undesirable."

Have any of you found this to be a serious problem or is it something you just get used to? 90 mph is the max I'd probably ever drive if that makes a difference. Also, (hope this doesn't sound too dumb...I'm not blonde, I promise!) can the tire size be changed while keeping the same wheels/rims and do they always need to be staggered? Also, is there a different brand of tire that would be better recommended?

I realize the Sports Package may not have been the most intelligent option for my particular driving conditions/style but I got a great deal on the car and it was already included.

Sorry this was so long and any insight would be greatly apprerciated.

Thanks! Ashley

PS - Once it quits snowing and I can wash him I'll post some pics. Very black and very sharp.

The tires size can be changed while keeping the same rims. How much, is something you would want to ask a tire rep (butler tire, discount tire, etc). To answer your second question, no you don't have to run a staggered step (example below). I recently switched to a non staggered setup without any problem.

I suggest that you go directly to a tire dealer and ask what size will fit on your current wheels. The rest is all preference.

I know the newbie questions get old and repetative so thank you KingCon! I will do what you advised.:thumbup:

No problem...249 posts ago I was too...still am!

Post pics when you can.

I run 20" wheels but recently switched from Diamaris to Latitudes. In my experience and several others here, the Latitudes turned out to be quieter and less harsh than the Diamaris. They also did very well in snow.

Welcome - check the load and speed ratings of your existing tires against the Latitudes. They might be the same, sometimes all seasons will ride a bit smoother - they might have sidewalls that are less rigid.

There isn't a problem running higher or lower rates as long as they are not below the ratings for the X5.

I run the Latitudes on 20 inch rims and they are ok in the snow, 315's in the rear. Not great but ok - I think it's because of the wide width that they are not better. Next winter I'm going with 18 or 19 inch rims and narrower snow specific tires.

I'm a bit confused by this response, and the OPs question about "non-staggered tire size"...imo, if the car has
oem staggered wheels, (the wheel style/size wasn't mentioned in the OP, but I'm guessing style 132s), there
is a full inch of wheel width difference in staggered X5 wheels, front vs rear.

Thus, stuffing or stretching a same size tire on a wheel that is an inch wider, (or narrower), may present some
bead seating problems and handling weirdness, imo. A taller/different aspect ratio tire may offer a slightly softer
ride and potentially better foul weather grip, but I am not convinced "the same size all around" is the way to go.
GL,mD

Thank you everyone for the input. Wanted to get as much info as I could before going to the tire place.. They'd see a female walk in and probably try to sell me some bicycle tires. :)