Rim width for snow tires

[stanjang]

When I search through various sites for snow tires (tirerack, pmctire, kaltire), and search based on vehicle (Model 3 base 18" wheels), I'm presented with rims that are 7.5", 8.0" and maybe 8.5" wide. Given that the oem rims are 8.5", are there pros/cons with going with one of these narrower rims? I would be using the same size tires, 235/45/18, as oem.

A minor benefit in using narrower rims would be that I'd be less suspectible to rim rash. The oem aero's do seem like the rims are too wide for the tires.

Thanks,
Stan

 

[Nogasmn]

You could go with wider tires, instead of narrower wheels.

 

[israndy]

That's what I am doing this winter.

 

[israndy]

Tirerack.com:

 

[MRGEDU]

Narrow is better in snow, it will cause the tire to wear more on the center though.

 

[stanjang]

Randy, I couldn't find this closeout at tirerack, only the new Sottozero 3 for $261. Maybe soldout already.

 

[israndy]

I got them yesterday at the warehouse across from the Reno Gigafactory, so I know it WAS good.

Ah, yes:

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tire...el=Winter+Sottozero+3&partnum=445VR8SZ3XLV2OS

Looks like they are out of stock today. Wonder if I got the last 4...?

 

[GregD60]

I got them yesterday at the warehouse across from the Reno Gigafactory, so I know it WAS good.

Ah, yes:

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tire...el=Winter+Sottozero+3&partnum=445VR8SZ3XLV2OS

Looks like they are out of stock today. Wonder if I got the last 4...?

Today, it's showing 3 in stock. Last year there were three different spec Sottozero 3 tires in size 245/45-18; I went with the Mercedes spec, which was the lightest one. The Mercedes spec is still available for $194.04 - https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tire...all=Blackwall&partnum=445VR8SZ3XLV3&tab=Specs

stanjang, the Sottozero 3 for $261 is the special Tesla spec with the sound foam in it, in size 235/45-18. Randy and I are both talking about one size up without the foam.