Wheels & Tires

Buying tips

On used wheels, provenance matters most: a set of OZ Ultraleggeras with 500 km on them is a different item than the same set after five seasons and a curb strike. Ask specifically about damage to the individual wheel, not just the car — single wheels often get replaced after parking incidents.

Type approval or ABE should come with aftermarket wheels. For OEM rims, the wheel type number (printed on the rim) that is listed in the vehicle papers is enough. Aftermarket wheels usually need a parts certificate (Teilegutachten) and often an individual TÜV inspection.

Tire age: the DOT code on the sidewall shows production week and year. Tires older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread depth — the rubber compound ages and grip measurably drops, even on low-mileage cars.

FAQ

Are OEM wheels better than replicas?

OEM wheels come with factory-level TÜV certification and are engineered specifically for the model (strength, true running, center bore). Replicas vary widely: high-end replicas from recognized makers (BBS, OZ) are often equivalent to OEM and cheaper. Cheap cast wheels from low-tier factories can crack under load. If there's no type approval, walk away.

Is there a winter-tire requirement in Germany?

The requirement is situational: in snow, slush, ice, or frost, vehicles must run winter (M+S) or all-season tires with the 3-peak-mountain-snowflake symbol. There is no seasonal mandate — it's weather-driven. Pure summer tires in wintry conditions are prohibited and can trigger a fine on inspection.

Which offset (ET) fits my Porsche?

The ET (offset, in mm) determines how far the wheel sits outboard or inboard. Factory values are listed in your car's Certificate of Conformity (COC). An offset that's too low (wheel sits outboard) increases track and can rub the arches; too high pushes the wheel into the strut. Deviations of more than 5 mm from the factory spec require a strength certificate and an individual TÜV inspection in Germany.

What does "fits" mean in a listing?

"Fits" is the seller's declaration of mechanical compatibility — not automatically a TÜV approval. A wheel set marked "fits 991 and 992" means center bore and ET line up. Whether the wheel can be legally registered on the 992 in Germany depends on the type approval. For aftermarket wheels, always ask for the certificate.

What are 3-piece wheels?

3-piece wheels have a separate rim barrel, center, and inner barrel, bolted together. Pros: individual sections can be replaced (e.g. after a curb strike), and width and offset can be configured modularly. Cons: higher weight, more maintenance (bolt joints trap dirt), higher purchase and restoration cost. Often the factory-fit choice on classics (Fuchs wheels).