Do BMW still fit run flat tyres?
Are run flat tyres standard on BMW? Yes, most modern BMWs come with run flat tyres as standard. However, if you’re unsure, you should always check if your BMW has run flats or not, especially if you have a used vehicle. 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.BMW did not supply these with a spare wheel either, probably due to the extra weight involved. They did however get a tyre repair kit included. Taking into consideration everything we know; Absolute BM do not recommend or promote run flat tyres. It is perfectly fine to change to conventional tyres on your BMW.One of the most common reasons for cracked alloy wheels is the impact from potholes, bumps, and road debris. BMWs are often equipped with low-profile tires, which, while enhancing performance and aesthetics, offer less cushioning to the wheels.
Why is BMW getting rid of run-flat tires?
BMW states its due to environmental concerns but also comfort. Runflat tires are considerably harder to recycle from what they state. As a plus, non run flats are less expensive than the run flat counterpart. 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.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.Run-flat Tyres enable you to continue driving when you have a puncture. The Tyre Pressure Monitoring device (installed on the vehicle) informs you of the puncture, but instead of stopping, you can drive on at a reduced speed, 50mph for 50 miles range to a repair shop where they can be repaired or replaced.
What is the disadvantage of a run-flat tyre?
Reduced performance: Run flats may not provide the same level of performance as conventional tyres. The stiffer construction and sidewalls can affect handling and cornering capabilities, resulting in slightly compromised performance in terms of traction, braking, and overall vehicle dynamics. As the folks at Bridgestone say, you should never mix run-flat tires with conventional tires unless it’s an emergency or a temporary fix. Conventional tires do not have run-flat capability and the handling characteristics of the vehicle with these tires may be different, notes Bridgestone.Although there are no legislation in the UK that bans the mixing of run flat and conventional tyres on a vehicle, it is not recommended to mix run flat with normal tyres. Run flat tyres are specifically designed to perform differently from conventional 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.
What are the negatives of run-flat tires?
Potential ride discomfort — the stiffer construction of run-flat tires can result in a harsher and less comfortable ride, especially on rough roads or over bumps. Less responsive handling — run-flat tires can negatively impact handling and responsiveness, making the vehicle feel less agile and maneuverable. A run-flat tire design relies on a thicker, stiffened sidewall to carry the load in the event the tire goes low or flat. Even when properly inflated, the reinforced sidewall structure is stiffer than the sidewall of a conventional tire. The added spring rate of that stiffer sidewall can be felt over every bump.