Should I fit winter tyres to my BMW 3 Series?

I recently bought my first BMW 3 Series (a 2011 coupe) and am being bamboozled at my local dealers to put £1600 of winter tyres on. I've never had winter tyres before and while I am keen (I am planning a trip to the Highlands and Lake District in February) this does seem pricey. At the same time, if that is what I need to keep this car on the road and safe, so be it. I'd be grateful for your advice on best tyre to go for and what a reasonable price would be.

Asked on 19 January 2013 by FQ, via email

Answered by Honest John

It depends on the performance level of the car. If it's a 320d or 320i you can go down to 16-inch wheels and 205/55 R16 tyres, or 205/60 R16 tyres (on my 320d). If it has more performance and more torque, then you will need 17-inch or 18-inch wheels and tyres. BMW's winter wheel and tyre combinations start at around £800 for 16-inch steel wheels and tyres, or you can buy a set of 16-inch alloy wheels from Tyremen that have been specially treated to resist winter salt for just £335 inc VAT.

Tags: wheels and tyres wheel sizes winter tyres

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