I have a 2014 SH-AWD TL A-Spec package. I'm just wondering if I will need winter tires for the upcoming season? I'm in Hamilton and we got hammered pretty good last winter with snow. This is my first winter with the TL. The GM at the Acura dealership where I leased my car told me I wouldn't need them as he has the same car and had no issues last winter. He also said if I really want winter tires and rims, he suggested NOT using steel rims as the lugs won't tighten down properly on the SH-AWD cars? Seems odd to me but he insists not using them to the point the dealership doesn't sell them for the SH-AWD cars and will not install any customers steel wheels either on any SH-AWD.

Sorry for the long story, I'm just a little confused here. Thanks.

 

Maybe he's trying to make money off you?

 

I don't think that's it. My wife has an ILX thru him as well and has been dealing with him for 15 years now. He's given both of us some incredible pricing/deals on vehicles over the years. Just seems odd about the steelies and wanted to know if anyone else has heard this before.

 

I just did a quick search and it lead me to conclude that he misinformed you.

You CAN run steel rims. Some dealers will just try and sell you the 3000$+ winter rim package.

Look into the 17" silver steel rims Acura offers. Ask him about it, and if he says anything about them not working, I suggest another dealer.

EDIT: scratch what I just said about asking him about the 17" steel rims. Just re-read that they will NOT install or sell you the steel rims, so only option is indeed to go to another dealer.

The torquing excuse - I've never heard that one before.

Sources: https://acurazine.com/forums/tires-w.../#post14285222

https://acurazine.com/forums/tires-w.../#post12628554

 

I live in Quebec where snow tire questions are not an issue. It is legally required to install snow tires before December 15.
I'm a taxi driver and I notice the difference in traffic. Snow tires below 7degrees Celsius take considerably less distance to stop compared to 4 seasons .
Just bought 2015 mdx and would not consider anything other than snow tires even when not legally required.

 

If you have a chance come by my shop in Stoney Creek. I can definitely price out a good set of winter tires with steel wheels or some other options. 590 south service Rd in Stoney Creek. Ultimate Autosports

 

Thanks. Private message sent.

 

Also, my stock tire size is 245-40-19. I wanna go with 17 or 18 inch rims for the winter. What tire sizes would be ideal for 17 and 18 inch rims? Thanks.

 

245/45/18
245/50/17

 

I just replied back lol I don't come on the forums too often so I apologize about the delay!

 

I've got my eye on a set of 17" steelies with 235-55-17 x-ice tires on them. Will I be ok with this sizing or is it gonna throw my computer/speedometer/odometer off too much?

 

That's what the dealership sells as the 4G TL winter set. You won't be off by much!

 

4 Of 5 Acura dealerships I called recommended 225-55-17 as a downsized replacement for the stock 19's so I sourced a set of those on steelies.

 

I think most TL owners with winter tiires have used the 225/55/17 size. I got mine through discountire.com. $1060 for the set at the time I bought them earlier this fall with TPMS and alloys shipped to a US drop box just outside the border. You'll just have to pay canadian taxes (13%) on your way back in.

 

For anyone buying winter tires, or any tires for that matter, don't forget to check the date on the tire. Always try and get fresh rubber, as it hardens with age, even if it stored inside. This is especially true for used tires on kijiji. The tread may be good, but the rubber not so good.