Tires - Applications/Recommendations
GROUP 36Tires and Wheels
Bulletin Number
36 01 97
Woodcliff Lake, NJ
May 1997
Product Engineering
SUBJECT:
Tire Applications
MODEL:
All 1997 Model Year
Situation:
BMW performs extensive tire tests to determine which tires are best suited for use on BMW vehicles. Testing covers many areas, such as wet and dry traction, stability, tread life, noise, and comfort, in addition to the basic requirements of load and speed ratings. The results of these tests determine which sizes, brands, and types of tires will be approved for original equipment use.
Understandably, it is not logistically or economically feasible to test every brand and type of tire available on the market for use on BMWs.
Customers will often inquire about the suitability of a particular brand or type of tire for replacement use on their BMW or will experience problems after replacing their original tires with a different size, brand, or type.
The listings shown have been prepared for your use when asked about recommended tires. When using this list, please bear in mind the list includes only those tires which have been tested and have been found to be suitable for use on a particular model.
Availability in the U.S. of accessory tires on the listings shown are not the responsibility of BMW of NA, Inc. Please contact your local distributor or tire manufacturer.
If a particular brand or type of tire is not included under a model application, it does not necessarily mean that it does not meet BMW standards; it might simply be that it was not tested for that application.
If a customer should desire to have another brand or type of tire mounted on their vehicle and that tire is not listed, the customer should be made aware that it is possible the tire may have characteristics that do not complement the vehicle. (Also refer to S.I. 34 01 88 (1555) and S.I. 34 01 92 (3490) for further information).
Note:
A new speed rating "Y" has been adopted, and will start to appear on some tires. This rating is up to 186 MPH (300 KPH).
APPROVED TIRE AND WHEEL SIZES - 3 SERIES
Approved Tires - 3 Series
Approved Tire and Wheel Size - 5 Series
Approved Tires - 5 Series
Approved Tire and Wheel Sizes - 7 Series
Approved Tires - 7 Series
Approved Tire and Wheel Sizes - 8 Series
Approved Tires - 8 Series