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[drvai]

Can I replace the back tires with a different brand? (vs the OEM michellin in the front?)

[OMID INC]

of course. its recommended that all 4 be the same but not everyone abides by that.

I wouldn't track w different tires though.

[drvai]

Originally Posted by OMID INC

of course. its recommended that all 4 be the same but not everyone abides by that.

I wouldn't track w different tires though.

Do you know why?
My point is: because of less performance (different grip, ride) or can damage something?

I can't think of any part of the car that can be damaged...

[elh0102]

Originally Posted by drvai

Do you know why?
My point is: because of less performance (different grip, ride) or can damage something?

I can't think of any part of the car that can be damaged...

It's not a risk of damage that results in the warning against mixing tires. As you mentioned, different tires have unique characteristics that may change the handling balance of the car. This will be a greater risk in the wet, since the variance in how tires manage water tends to be greater than their dry grip, assuming the same class of tire. It's no different than changing any variable, just be cautious in pushing the limit. The one situation you must avoid is different tires on each side of the rear axle, and I know that is not your plan.

[ben@tirerack]

Originally Posted by drvai

Do you know why?
My point is: because of less performance (different grip, ride) or can damage something?

I can't think of any part of the car that can be damaged...

The damage would only come about if you hit something because of the imbalance in the handling. Steering response, grip level vs slip angle, traction in wet vs. dry, and basically any other handling parameter you could name might be different. Different enough to make you lose control? Not usually, but aggressive driving or emergency maneuvers will be a bit riskier.

I would never mix tires if I could help it, but as a short term situation it sometimes works out without any major issue.

[westend117]

Originally Posted by ben@tirerack

The damage would only come about if you hit something because of the imbalance in the handling. Steering response, grip level vs slip angle, traction in wet vs. dry, and basically any other handling parameter you could name might be different. Different enough to make you lose control? Not usually, but aggressive driving or emergency maneuvers will be a bit riskier.

I would never mix tires if I could help it, but as a short term situation it sometimes works out without any major issue.

Agreed. Mixing is for cocktails, not tires.

Ben, do you feel 255/275 is a good up-sizing for width for the M3? My suspension etc. is stock but I wouldn't want to have any rubbing issues on the front. Forum opinions seem all over the place on this.