
How to Fix Front Tire Rubbing on the G80 M3 / G82 M4
Chris McGuire May 22, 2025
As the G8X M3 and M4 platform continues to evolve, aftermarket options are hitting the market faster than ever. One area that often gets overlooked but becomes critical during early modifications—is the front fender liners. After BMW launched the G80 M3 and G82 M4, owners quickly began upgrading with wider tires and wheel spacers. During in-house test fitting at IND, we discovered that under full steering lock, the front tires would make contact with the inner liner specifically the section where BMW integrated plastic cooling fins to direct airflow to the side-mounted coolers. While effective for airflow, these fins created clearance issues once aftermarket wheel setups were introduced. It’s also worth noting that tire brand plays a role in clearance. While both Michelin and Pirelli tires have been reported to cause rubbing, many owners are experiencing more severe clearance issues with Pirelli tires, which appear to have slightly wider shoulder profiles compared to Michelins of the same size. This makes proper liner modifications even more important when running spacers or wider setups.
In this article, we break down the options available, why they matter, and what makes certain solutions—like the RKP liner upgrade—a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a clean, plug-and-play fix.
RKP Front Fender Liner Set – Complete Plug-and-Play Solution
RKP has engineered a complete front fender liner solution that not only addresses the common issue of front tire clearance but also enhances durability and fitment. Each kit includes a brand-new set of genuine BMW front liners, paired with RKP’s anodized aluminum mesh inserts—machined and finished in the USA for precision and longevity. Unlike other solutions, this is a 100% plug-and-play installation—no trimming or modifications required. Everything comes ready to install right out of the box, making this kit the go-to choice for enthusiasts looking for a clean, OEM+ upgrade without the hassle. This setup continues to lead the market thanks to its ease of installation and the inclusion of brand-new factory BMW liner cores, professionally modified for improved performance and aesthetics.
Product Details:
- Includes both full left and right front fender liners
- Genuine BMW OE liner cores, professionally modified by RKP
- Factory plastic fins replaced with Aluminum anodized black mesh inserts
MMX Front Fender Liner Inserts – UK-Engineered Aluminum Upgrade
Unlike the complete plug-and-play solution from RKP, MMX offers a precision-engineered set of aluminum inserts, designed and developed in-house in the UK. These inserts are a cost-effective alternative but require modification to the factory liners for installation. To fit the MMX kit, the vented section of the OEM liner must be removed and trimmed before mounting the new inserts. While the final result—improved clearance and airflow—is comparable to the RKP system, it's important to note that additional prep and installation work is required with the MMX solution.
Product Details:
- Designed to increase clearance for lowered G8X BMWs with wider tires and spacers
- Helps maintain airflow to side-mounted coolers while preventing debris intrusion
- Constructed from durable aluminum with a black powder-coated finish
- Features laser-cut MMX logo for a clean, high-end look
- Secured with four mounting points per side for added stability
- Requires trimming and removal of the OEM vented liner section
- Includes all necessary hardware for installation
TRE Fender Liner Inserts – Spacer-Friendly Solution with Optional Cooler Guard
TRE offers another solid option for G8X owners looking to eliminate front tire rubbing when running spacers. While this kit does include a cooler guard—which we'll cover in detail in an upcoming blog post—the fender liners themselves are similar in concept to the MMX kit. Installers will need to trim and modify the OEM liners to complete the installation. This makes TRE a viable choice for those seeking increased clearance, with the added benefit of cooler protection built into the full package.
Product Details:
- Precision-cut from premium-grade metal for durability
- Includes all required hardware for a complete installation
- Requires trimming and removal of the factory vented liner section