BMW 5 Series suffering poor ride and handling - are the wheels and tyres to blame?

I have bought a 2012 BMW 520d recently after 12 years with a 530i Sport. So far I love the car, but am comparatively disappointed with the road holding, cornering and noise from tyres. The car is presently on Michelin Primacy 245/40/R19 at the front and 275/35/R19 on the rears. Should I replace these tyres?

Asked on 25 September 2013 by Scottman

Answered by Honest John
They are ridiculous wheel and tyre sizes for a BMW 520d. Appropriate for a 535d, maybe, but I can't understand why you bought a big car with a small 2.0 litre diesel engine with wheels and tyres more appropriate for track days. If you want comfort and improved steering feel go down to 17-inch wheels with deeper profile tyres.
Similar questions
I have a new BMW 530d arriving shortly on the standard 225/55/r17 tyres. Should I have gone for the larger wheels with lower profile tyres?
I borrowed a BMW 3 Series recently, on runflat low profile tyres, and noticed the ride was considerably smother than my 5 Series on 17-inch wheels. Why would that be the case? Is it possible that my suspension...
I have a BMW F11 5-Series Touring on standard 17-inch wheels with 225/55 R17 runflat tyres. The ride is awful and I have always assumed that the stiffness in the walls causes much of the harsh ride.
Related models
Brilliant ride and handling, powerful and efficient diesel engines, upmarket interior, very safe, lots on the used market.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer