How do you tell what size wheel your came with originally? Is there a door code? Something in the VIN Number? I know the Jaguar XK 8 came stock wth 17 inch wheels or 18 inch wheels. I just got my Jaguar and am sorting out the various mechanical issues and am ready for tires. I want to go with stock sizes. The size of the tires that I got the car with are, Front: 245/40/R18 and Rear: 255/45/R18. I have been told that the front should be a "45" not a "40" . I have also been told I should be running 17 inch tires all the way around. What I want from the car is to have a better ride quality, and less vibration in the steering wheel at Highway speeds. I had the balance checked and the vibration improved, however my mechanic said the tires were old and might be having some issues. They are 8 year old tires and are not the same brand front vs rear. So, I want to start with new on all 4 corners. And, since the chrome wheels are pitted and scraped , replace those also. The only question.....what size!

 

Uh --there is a federal mandated sticker on your car with the data you seek!

 

Unfortunately, not on mine! First thing I looked for.

 

That is very odd---take a look here then----http://www.jcna.com/sites/default/files/files/Apx_B_Original_Equipment_Tire_and_Wheel_2018%20040 52018.pdf

 

Only the early XK8's were fitted with 17 inch rims. Unless the original buyer specified a larger option, the standard fitting for the 2001 XK8 was 18 inch wheels. The standard tyre fitment was Pirelli P-Zero 245/45 ZR18 Front and 255/45 ZR18 Rear.

18 inch rims are the best for comfort on the XK8/XKR. I've had XK8's with 18, 19 and 20 inch rims and found the ride on my 2005 with 20 inch wheels was very harsh. If you are also getting vibration, the front upper wishbone bushes could be suspect.

The way to be absolutely certain what was originally fitted to your vehicle by the factory is to ask a Jaguar Dealer to look up the build specification which they can do from your VIN. The VIN itself does not include information on wheel or tyre size.

Graham