Should I downsize my 19-inch rims to 18-inchers in my Audi S5?

I keep on running into small problems with the tyre and wheel combo. Have had 2 rim replacements and 3 tyres replaced.

BHPian museek recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hi friends

I have owned an S5 for 2 years now and have driven it for almost 30000 kms. I own a Troc and Polo GT as my other cars. I love to use my cars everyday and everywhere, and that was one reason I got the S5 and not the RS5.

But even in this car, I keep on running into small problems with the tyre and wheel combo. The original R19 has 255/35 tyres. Have had 2 rim replacements and 3 tyres replaced. Once I lost 2 tyres in the same instant...a huge moon crater-sized pothole and my car doing maybe 40kmph.

Now am planning to maybe switch to R18. Tyre options for this are 245/40 and 225/45.

Which is better - 245 or 225?

Will it be worth it just for the peace of mind or will technical issues again sabotage my ride?

Here's what BHPian AMG Power had to add to this matter:

Always buy a car that suits your driving style (if you cannot change it), suitability for roads you use regularly and your usual driving cycle.

40 kmph is a very high speed for a moon crater sized pothole - something that only tough SUV’s can come through unscathed.

Both the tyre options suggested could land you in trouble in other areas as you are reducing the width in a performance car. This could result in problems in other areas - loss of traction during panic braking, reduced high speed grip and reduced handling.

The roads you use regularly coupled with your driving pattern do not appear to make the S5 the right choice of car. As you have other cars, an option is to use the S5 on highways only and use your other cars for your daily driving cycle. 

Here's what BHPian androdev had to say:

Check the recommended tire pressure sticker on your car. It's either on fuel filler lid or driver side B-pillar. Here is an example:

If the downsized spec is in this list, then you can surely got for it. Of course, you will have to buy the wheels with matching specs (offset, PCD, etc.).

Advantages of 18" wheels:

1. More comfortable ride, reduced road noise - this would be the main benefit
2. Can take a bit more abuse but so much - you won't a get a free pass to be carefree compared to 19"
3. Cheaper to buy if the sizes are easily available

19" wheels:

1. Look great, very difficult to accept the looks of 18" once used to 19" - you would rather learn to drive more cautiously with 19"
2. Much improved handling - especially in demanding situations.

If you don't prioritise the comfort and quietness of 18" and value the improved handling of 19", I would say stick to 19" and learn to be more cautious. Get forged wheels - they don't get damaged that easily.

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