Why has BMW stopped using run flat tyres?
run flat tyres are more likely to cause cracked alloy wheels as bumps and potholes are unable to be absorbed by the hardened sidewall. This transfers massive trauma onto the alloy wheel itself which can cause extensive damage to your bmws alloy wheels. One cautious bit of advice, though, if you’re considering changing your bmw’s run-flat tires to regular tires, you must do so on all four tires because of the handling and performance differences between the types of tires. As a way to reduce overall weight of new bmws, they no longer come with spare tires.
Why does BMW use run-flat tires?
Why does BMW use run-flat tires? The answer comes down to three key reasons: No Spare Tire Needed: BMW designs many models without a spare tire to reduce weight, increase cargo space, and improve fuel efficiency. Run-flat tires make this possible by allowing you to continue driving after a flat. High replacement cost: Drivers often think about the cost of replacement as one of the most significant downsides to run-flat tires. But the thick sidewalls that make them so good at their job have a significant impact on ride quality.The main thing to note about run flat tyres is that they were designed with safety in mind with the addition of reinforced sidewalls. Standard tyres require air to stay hard, however the added characteristic of the reinforced sidewalls means that run flat tyres can temporarily stay rigid without any air pressure.Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tyres: Potential for Increased Road Noise: The reinforced sidewalls may contribute to a firmer ride and slightly increased road noise. Higher Initial Cost: Run-flat tyres tend to be more expensive initially due to their specialized construction and safety features.
Do run flat tyres use more fuel?
Run flat tyres are designed with a reinforced sidewall to allow continued driving even after a puncture, but this design comes with trade-offs. Due to their stronger construction, they generally have higher rolling resistance compared to regular tyres, which can lead to a slight reduction in fuel efficiency. Some drivers complain about a lack of road feel, compromised stability, or reduced driving dynamics due to their rigidity. Additionally, run-flat tires are noticeably heavier than standard tires (due to more complex compounds and enhancements in construction).Enhanced Safety on the Road Run-flat tires reduce this risk by maintaining stability even after a puncture. You won’t need to pull over in dangerous locations, such as busy highways or poorly lit areas. Instead, you can safely drive to the nearest service station or your home.There are two primary categories of run-flat tire systems: Because of the thicker sidewall, it is much more difficult to puncture the side of the tire, which is beneficial because a sidewall puncture causes more damage to the tire than a tread puncture does.
Is it illegal to have run flats and normal tyres?
Although there are no laws or legislation against mixing run flats with standard tyres on a car, doing so can have a negative impact on the handling of the vehicle. It is advised that you do inform your insurer if you decide to switch from run flats to regular tyres. This is because the change is classed as a material change to the car. A car that is equipped with run flats as standard has likely been designed to be used with run flat tyres.The short answer is no. Manufacturers of run flat tyres recommend that you replace your tyres rather than repair them for a very good reason – the reinforced design and structure of a run flat makes it extremely difficult to tell whether there’s secondary damage and the internal structure has been compromised.