So, I have 205/50/17s on now. Has anyone run 215/50/17s without any rubbing or power loss issues?

 

I ran Falken ZE-512's for over a year in that size. No problems except a little loss of low end power.
If you have or could get 7-7.5" wheels a better choice would be 225/45's.Almost no speedo/odo error w/that size and no issues either.
I'm running Kumho ASX's in that size right now. No issues at all. They are the safest max size for the 3 series, and very nearly the same circumference too.
It's only when you start getting into the 235+ sizes and massive suspension lowering that you run into problems.

 

Or if you want to go up to 18's you could go with a 225/40-18,
Specification Sidewall Radius Diameter Circumference Revs/Mile Difference
205/50-17 4.0in 12.5in 25.1in 78.8in 804 0.0%
225/40-18 3.5in 12.5in 25.1in 78.8in 804 0.1%

 

I ran 225/45R17 for years with no problem (on a 7" wide rim, the stock 6.5" wide rim is really too narrow for a 225 according to the tire manufacturers recommendations)

 

Thank you.
Are the225/45/17s just a little too wide for the stock wheel? I don't want to change wheels but would like to get a little wider tire on the car.

 

Well, then to avoid losing some low-end torque/power consider doing what the autoXer's do...go w/a 215/45 which willmake your speedo read high and will add miles to the odo a little faster. But if I were again buying 215's for my car, I would go w/a 45 series this time. Ultimately, I didn't like what the 50 series did to my car and driving style.
That's just my .02. Yours may differ depending on your needs and desires.

 

i use 215/50/17s on my stock wheels. they rub only at full lock...but that doesnt interefere at all with everyday driving.
on my 17X7 aftermarket wheels i have 215/45/17's with no rubbing issues what-so-ever.

 

Thank you everybody.

 

Are you completely confused now, Aubrey?