Choosing the Right Tire Chain Size for 2020 BMW X5

Question:

When buying snow chains can you buy chains 1 inch larger and the rim size of the tire. Rim 21 needed can you buy 22 and adjust the tire chain to fit? Thank you.

asked by: Barbara K

Expert Reply:

It depends. A tire size consists of three measurements. For example, your 2020 BMW X5 has a common tire size of 275/45-20. That means your tire is 265 millimeters wide, the height of your sidewall is 45% of your width, and you have a wheel diameter of 20". If you have a rim size of 21", but your rubber tire is small, you can still fit into the smaller chains.

One of the tire chains that fits this wheel is Konig Self-Tensioning Snow Tire Chains - XG12 Pro # th2004705265. If you scroll down the product info, you can see the list of compatible tire sizes. If you follow the measurements, the tire with the much smaller rim size of 16 (235/85-16) is actually larger than my example tire and the chains would fit tighter on it.

A good tip is check the compatible tire sizes and try to be in the middle range. If you think your tire size is on the smaller spectrum (but still technically fit!) you can get one with cams like Titan Chain Snow Tire Chains with Cams # TC2228CAM and use a rubber tensioner on it # TCMA2.

You can find your tire size printed on the sidewall of your tire. Our fitguide will help you find compatible chains, or you can send me your tire size and I'll find a fit for you and what you're using it for. Attached below is my video review of one of the chains and the link to our fitguide to help you get started.

expert reply by: Evangeline M