Will 3 Series Wheels Fit 5 Series BMW Without Any Trouble?
BMW has a wide range of cars from different series, each having its own specs. Many BMW enthusiasts think that all BMW wheels are interchangeable. Thus many motorheads always have one question in their head: will 3 series wheels fit 5 series BMW?
In contrast to the 3 series, which has a 5×112 bolt layout, the 5 series has a 5×120 bolt layout. Having said that, the 5 series cannot use the 3 series wheels. However, you may switch them out by using an adaptor.
So, if you are thinking of using the BMW 3 series or 5 series, there are a few things you need to know. Thus, today in this guide, we will discuss everything you should know before considering switching the tires.
Contents
What is the Bolt Pattern of the BMW 5 series?
The BMW 5 Series is a luxury saloon that is incredibly capable, exquisitely constructed, and roomy. It’s also a blast to drive. A 5×120 bolt pattern is used.
The bolt circle dimension (120), the notional circle generated by the studs’ centers, and the screw number (5) make up the 5×120 Bolt Arrangement or Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD).
These numbers indicate that the wheel has five lug holes, which are spaced 120 millimeters (or 4.7″) apart to make a circle.
Compared to a 4-bolt stud pattern, a 5-bolt stud pattern is more sturdy if it loses a lug. Thanks to the design, each lug nut receives an equal amount of stress from the automobile.
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What is the Bolt Pattern of the BMW 3 series
Another popular series from BMW is the 3 series, and all the latest models of the 3 series from 2018-2023 use a 5×112 bolt pattern.
The stud count (5×112) and bolt circle dimension (112), the imaginary circle formed by the studs’ centers, make up the 5×112 Bolt Pattern or Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD).
The 5 lug holes on rims with a 5×112 bolt sequence form an illusory loop with a diameter of 112 mm.
Will a 3 Series Wheels Fit 5 series BMW?
No, you cannot fit a BMW 3 series wheels on a BMW 5 series wheels as all the latest models of 3 series use a 5×112 bolt pattern compared to a 5×120 bolt pattern of 5 series. You can still interchange the wheels, but for that, you will need to use an adapter.
On the contrary, the BMW 3 series before 2018 used a 5×120 bolt pattern similar to the 5×120 pattern of the 5 series.
Even if you decide to swap the tires, In order to make the 3 series wheels fit correctly on your BMW 5 series, you will have to fold the fenders or add spacers.
But there are also other matters which will create an issue here. Read below to know more.
Offset
The first problem you will face while swapping tires between these two cars is the offset. A 3 series wheel’s offset will be dissimilar to a 5 series wheel offset.
A 3 series wheel normally has an offset of 35 to 45, whereas a 5 series wheel typically has an offset of 30 to 40.
Width of the tire
Another problem is the width of the tire itself. A 3 series wheel normally has a width of 7.5 to 8.5 inches, whereas a 5 series wheel typically has a width of 8.5 to 9.5 inches.
Having said that, the 3 series wheels could be too thin to completely occupy the 5 series wheel well.
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Tire size
The standard tire size for the 2021 BMW 3 Series is P225/45R18, one of several tire sizes used by the 3 series BMW.
The tire sizes for some more well-liked versions include 225/45R17, 245/40R18, and 265/35R19. At the same time, 245/45 R18 is the most popular tire size for the BMW 5 Series.
FAQs
By now you already know whether or not BMW 3 series wheels will fit 5 series or not. But it is obvious to have some question wandering around your head which we will answer down below.
Is The Bolt Pattern The Same For All BMWs?
Each BMW model has a distinctive lug design. This pattern comprises center diameter, offset, screw size, tire size, and lug style specifications. Consequently, the lug pattern might significantly differ between the BMW series and its variants.
Are The Five-Lug Bolt Designs Identical?
No, there are no universal rims, and there are many designs of the 5 lug pattern. Decide the dimensions and offset of the wheels before you purchase them by consulting the vehicle’s wheel specifications. The offset, which can greatly vary across models, is just as crucial as the bolt pattern.
Is The 5×4 5 Bolt Pattern The Same As 5×114?
The wheels actually have the precise same bolt pattern even if the numbers are varied. So you’ll know you’re still discussing the same subject if anybody tells you that you absolutely need a 5×114. 3 while you’re looking for 5×4. 5 wheels.
Why Does BMW Use Staggered Wheels?
Not just BMW but many rear-wheel-drive vehicles have staggered wheels. Bigger lips and higher traction during acceleration are both benefits of using staggered wheels or broader wheels on the driving wheels.
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Conclusion
It is possible to fit BMW 3 series wheels on a 5 series, but you will need to make a lot of modifications. So, if you ask our opinion, swapping these tires is not beneficial at all. You should stick to the original tires or similar to get the best performance of your 5 series.
If you want to replace the tires on BMW 5 then there are a lot of performance based aftermarket tires available you should get them instead. Moreover, while changing tires, it is important to check all the diameters and offsets, so you do not end up in trouble while swapping them.