Tire Pressure - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

VanM · 29th May 2003, 01:19

Hi all,

I am just wondering what is the proper tire pressure for our cars. I have the Dunlops on. I know that the tag on the driver's side door sill tells me but it only lists the fully loaded pressure. My car hardly ever has more than two people in it. Any answer will be great. Thanks.

29th May 2003, 02:23

This is a very complex question, because you can use several different settings, and have the car still perform well.

I used 36 in the front and 38 in the rear, which is great for track and fast street driving. 42F/42R and 42F/44R are both good combinations, but a little high for optimal traction.

Cheers.

greg · 29th May 2003, 02:28

There is no "right" answer, but here are some guidelines (my opinion only):

1) Light load (1-2 people, min baggage); street driving, good ride, performance priority: 32f/34R

2) Moderate load (2-3 people, bags or other trunk load), street driving, performance priority - 34f/36R

3) Heavy Load, street driving, performance priority: 36f/38r

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4) Extended driving over 100mph: bump above pressures by 4 PSI

5) Extended driving over 120mph: bump above pressures by 6 PSI

6) Extended driving over 140mph: bump above pressures by 8 PSI

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If gas mileage and tire life are prioritizede over performance, (compromise in grip and ride quality OK): Bump above pressures by 6 PSI.

ALL ABOVE PRESSURES ARE MEASURED COLD - I.E., 65 DEGREES F.

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7) Track driving - depends on track - but goal is about 38-40 PSI HOT. Use higher pressures up front relative to rear if front tires are rolling over.

XrayMD · 29th May 2003, 02:32

Interesting Greg thanks. I think you're right...it ends up being somewhat of a matter of personal preference and should vary with your driving habits.

For me and my S03's, 40F and 42R seems to work well!

VanM · 29th May 2003, 06:14

Thanks for the numbers guys.