You might want to consider snow tires.

Any suggestions for 4.6iS? should I go for 19, 18 or 17 inch rims? will that distort the suspension? Original tires are 20" staggered, factory ( I saw a 4.6iS in Costa Rica that had factory 19" wheels, which was a surprise to me...)

I think winter tires or chains are one of legal requirements to have the car on the road after specific date, say November 1st or something...

I wonder what all is in this kit (for $450)? If it would permanently solve the clogging/blowing out your valve cover gaskets problem, I think it would be worth it :)

Anyone know how the SIBs are handled? Are they just bulletins to advise dealers how to resolve issues or are the like a recall where if a customer comes in with a complaint matching the SIB, they get the repair covered? I'm guessing the former, but would like to know for sure if possible.

Not sure if the smaller rims will fit over the rotors on the 4.6, for snow 17 would be best but they may not fit.

My guess is 18's but other members can give better information.

yeah, the bigger brakes on the 4.6 & 4.8 require a min 18" rim :rtfm:

Check the thread listing official BMW approved winter tires and yes the smallest wheels you'll be able to use to cover your front brakes will be 18" 255/55R18 and not 17". As far as chains are concerned I would avoid the BMW factory chains because they cost a small fortune. You'll have to do a search and ask some people with the same car for aftermarket chain experiences.

Folks, would you happen to know if the "This is a set of beautiful Dunlop 266/65R18 Winter Sport snow tires and gorgeous Star Spoke 69 wheel 18 inch OEM BMW X5 rims part no.36116752027in mint condition" will work as a set of winter tires for a 2002 4.6iS?

There is a fellow on eBay that is selling that set for about $1200 delivered, and I read in this thread that I need 255/55/18 for a set of winter tires...

So... Should I consider these wheels/tires, or should I keep looking?

Never heard of 266 size tires. Are they custom built?

She probably mis-type and wanted to say 265/65/18 but that's a weird size, the speedo will be off and she might have a code or problem with the DSC, and it's one thing you dont want to mess in a colder climate. My winter tire are 255/55/18 same thing for the summer tire. I wish your assignment is in Moscow VT wich is less colder than Russia, but still get ready to freeze you " derrière " if your not familiar with northern climate it's not so bad nothing like Costa Rica though,it's mostly dec-jan-feb that you get the blues.

Yeah, obviously. I was joking. I'd check with the seller what is printed on the sidewall, but I'd bet they hit '6' every time they meant to hit '5' meaning the size is really 355/55R18. If that's the case then he's okay.