Does anyone know if the ABS-based system in my 2011 CM4 actually uses TPMS sensors in the wheels? I am under the impression it does not (rubber valve stems, system does not seem to need to monitor actual pressure), but am not sure. I'm in Canada, BTW

 

Hi Hodaka - the American and Canadian TPMSs are different and have been for sometime. You guess is correct for the Canadian market. The system north of the boarder is "passive". The plus being you can swap wheels/tires to your heart's content.

All the best!

 

Awesome - thanks!

 

Awesome - thanks!
BTW, would you happen to know anyone with 16" wheels to try on the S? I'd love to run 16's for the winter here.

 

I don't know anyone who's run 16" wheels on the Countryman yet. Other MINIs are 4-bolt as opposed to 5, so I'm not sure how readily available a wheel like that would be (unless specifically manufactured).

Good luck with your search and let us know what you find out!

 

Interestingly enough, in Europe you can buy 16" steelies that say they "fit all countryman" (http://www.minigenuineparts.co.uk/mi...9_803_650.html), and then there's this: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigblogg/4619637917/

-but everyone in North America (so far) says it can't be done. . .

 

It might work on a standard Cooper, but I don't think a 16" rim will fit over the calipers on an S model. I could be wrong, though.

 

I don't think 16" will fit the S, at least tire rack does not list any wheels in that size that do, and they have a pretty big collection.

 

Just to add fuel to the fire, I just saw this on RealOEM:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...72&hg=36&fg=95

Basically, a 16" steel wheel with non-RFT winter tires (195/60R16). Also specs a mobility/slime kit.

 

Why is the 195/60R16 size for the 16" rims on the Countryman seemingly the recommended size? The 205/60R16 is closer in size to the stock 17" tire size.

 

I did this research before, some shops claim they can get 16" steelies for the countryman, the best bet is to take them up on it and have them test fit. Most shops would oblige that.

I went with 17" replica BMW rims. (see my other post). I didn't go for the steelies because they were also expensive for what they were.

 

Do you have idea concerning the version used for the European market ?

 

Actually MINI Canada now advertises a 16" option as an OEM winter package...

Style R12 Steel Wheel
Goodyear UltraGrip UG7+ tire in 205/60R16

See more here: http://www.mini.ca/en/accessories/wi...res/index.html

 

Aren't the brakes the same size as a R56? 16s are stock on a R56 S.

 

Too little, Too late, Too expensive.

I picked up 17" alloys with Nokian WR-G2 tires for hundreds less. That being said, if the dealer would have told me these were coming, I would have bought them. Heck, I even gave them the part number, and they told me that they were not available in North America. (I'm guessing it's not their fault - probably BMW/MINI N.A. sleeping at the switch)

 

Hey Hodaka! We're getting snow in Calgary today. How's the weather in the Kootenays? Had much of a chance to "test" the Nokians?

 

We had a bit yesterday - not enough to really test them. I've been swamped with setting up the new store, too - no time for seeking snow and taking pictures and stuff.

 

just got a set of 4 from Tirerack, cheaper than anywhere else. Just $53 each(sensor & valve stem), and $6 shipping from they're Delaware wharehouse to me in NY.

Bought a set of oem silver wheels from a fine gentleman in AZ, and am throwing a set of Nokian Hakka R's(205/50/17) on them.

Primarily the wife's new car, but I get to play too.

Thanks for the thread folks, found everything I have needed to know so far, right here.