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[mscdman]

Originally Posted by slicer

It's not a bad idea to run the 8.5's in the rear for winter use. As you probably know, narrower is better in the snow. I ran snows in OEM wheel / tire sizes (245 front, 265 rear) when I lived in MN which looked great but I can see how a narrower tire in the rear would have been nice (I struggled with traction once the snow got deep). As stated above, the size and offset of the front wheels will make them sit 18mm further in on the rear. I would purchase an 18mm spacer (and extended lugs). Spacers are not a big deal as long as they are installed correctly. My opinion is that this is not a huge issue and you didn't make a bad move buy purchasing this set. You need not be concerned about your suspension settings; they are independent of your wheel sizes.

All that being said... If I need snow tires in the future, I would run a 18 x 9.5 square set with 255/40/18's. The ultimate traction would be weaker than your set-up but I would sacrifice a little snow traction for the dry traction benefit of the wider tires and extra sidewall height over 235's.

Thanks slicer. I feel a little better now. The only benefit is to make the wheel more aesthetically pleasing (more flush) right? I don't need to purchase them and my setup will work

[mscdman]

Originally Posted by r53s65e90

It looks like a normal car not an m3. It gives you plenty clearance for chains in case you need them. To my eyes spacers would be an overkill. But looks are subjective. If I were you I would try them without spacers first.

I'll see how it looks sans spacers. I can always add them later. I wonder if they are expensive to install. I don't have any of the tools needed.

[slicer]

Originally Posted by mscdman

I'll see how it looks sans spacers. I can always add them later. I wonder if they are expensive to install. I don't have any of the tools needed.

They are a simple install. I wouldn't expect much if any additional charge if they are installed at the time your wheels are installed. I can't imagine anyone charging more than $50 after the fact. All you really need is a jack, lug wrench, torque wrench, anti-sieze... Plus maybe a drill with a wire brush to clean the hub.