I just ordered a set of new wheels and tires for my '01 A4. I went with 17"x8" rims in order to have a bit more rubber cushion on the nasty local roads. However I'm a little concerned that the tire size I picked might be too extreme. I chose 245/40-17 instead of the recommended 225/45-17. That stays exactly within the stock diameter, but almost a whole inch wider. I kinda like the idea of having more tire past the rims to protect them from accidental scrubbing, but I'm worried it might be wide enough to scrub under the car too. I don't plan to lower the car.

Anyone have experience with tires of that size?

 

I've 245-40-18 rub on suspension parts. I think the general concensus is that 245s are too wide for a B5, but spacers should help you clear.

 

so would 235/45-17 be ok? I've read of a lot of B5 owners going with 235 tires on forums, and no-one has mentioned any rubbing. Those were typically on 18" wheels, not 17" (ie. 235/40-18), which would make them both wider and taller than 235-45/17.

 

I ran 235-45-17s on stock suspension way back and had zero issues. It works fine.

 

Oh good, because that's what I ended up changing my order to. Can't wait to get rid of the cheap, bent aftermarket rims. My spine will thank me next time I'm on the highway.

 

If your worried about rim protection check out tires with curb guards? on them, i know the continetal tires have a super serious curb guard on them, i think its hideous because it looks like a lip on your tire, but it should protect against scrapes for sure.

 

I have a small curb guard on my Goodyears. Doesn't look ridiculous but does the job. I'm running 225/45-17's on 17x7.5 wheels and there's plenty of room. I think you'll be fine with 235/45, even on an 8" wide wheel.

 

Coincidentally, these ARE Continental tires, although I didn't notice any curb guard in the description. Really looking forward to getting the new wheels and tires

 

I've never seen anything mentioning curb guards in the description either, but my Continental DW's had a huge curb guard and my new BFG sport comp-2's have a decent size one also. My mom's B7 has ContiProContacts but they don't have any protection.

They work very well. My replica RS4's are still in perfect condition after almost 2 years and I've hit a couple curbs since I got them.

 

the conti curb guard is so gigantic and fugly. I think tire rack changed their **** but its used to tell you which ones had it.