Is that true that I can't have bigger rims on my Probe when

[JosephAbeln]

Is that true that I can't have bigger rims on my Probe when I drive through Germany? I live in Belarus, but I plan a Big road trip this summer.

I heard that you can only have the wheels in factory standard size and can't change the rim diameter and ET. Is it right?

[Death]

Your vehicle must be roadworthy.
If you are stopped and a check is made and it is found that your rims / tyres / wheel spacers / exhaust system or other things are not approved in Germany, then the car can be immobilised immediately.

If you are involved in an accident and it is discovered that the vehicle is not / was not roadworthy in the sense of the road traffic licensing, then you will have to take responsibility for this, which means that you can be charged with full / partial guilt.

Be carfull

[Wildschweinjäger]

I'm not quite sure, roadworthyness is usually testified by the origin's country. Even if not, most here drive non-standard wheels (and most of them have approval for them). Usually up to 17" lead to no problems, 18" might be possible as long as the tire diameter does not change. Might be easier to discuss if you send some infos / pics...

[JosephAbeln]

Thank you very much for the answers. I do speak German, but it's still a little easier for me to explain myself in English.

So I did a major overhaul for the car last year and it runs and drives like brand new. It currently sits on stock rims, but I think they will stay.
Another question. The car has all season tires that I used for about 30-40k km. Is there any requirement on the tread wear of the tires?

[Wildschweinjäger]

For German roadworthyness, its 1.6mm bare minimum. I assume that it is also mandatory for cars from foreign countries but not really sure. But there are frequent checks of lorries and they are forbidden to continue under a certain tread limit.

But keep in mind, Probe is very light at the rear axle. I had aquaplaning (is that the same in engish...?) starting from 80-90 km/h some times with little more tread. At least you need your heavy tool box and some beer cases (full) in the back.