Do I need run flat tyres on my BMW?
No, you don’t have to purchase run-flats. As long as the correct size is used you’ll be fine. Most BMWs use run flats because there isn’t a spare. 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.The only reason BMW included run flat tires is because they got a deal on them from the tire manufacturer. It also meant they didn’t have to equip a spare. It meant less weight in the cars and more dollars in their pockets.Price Point Compared to Standard Tires Depending on brand and vehicle, run-flats can cost as much as double what equivalent conventional tire costs. Still, you can find deals. For instance, Tire Rack currently charges between $217 and $270 for various Bridgestone run-flat tires that fit a 2016 BMW 328i.Can I put conventional tyres on my BMW which has factory fitted run flats? Providing you replace the tyres in at least pairs so you do not have two different tyres on the same axle, yes you can!
How much does it cost to replace BMW run-flat tires?
Run flat tires are estimated to cost between $200 and $500 each. Run-flat tires are slightly more expensive to manufacture than standard tires due to the additional reinforcements included. No! Run-flat tires are designed with a double layer side wall inside the tire strong enough to hold the vehicle up for a period of time after a puncture, or complete tire pressure loss. Run-flat tires are not repairable. After significant tire pressure loss, they are only designed to stabilize the vehicle for 50 miles.Run flat tyres are OEM equipment on many new cars and they’re an important safety feature. But they can give a stiff and bumpy ride, they’re more expensive than conventional tyres and they can’t be repaired meaning you will have to replace them after a puncture.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.In addition to being cheaper to buy, normal tyres can also be repaired and reused after a puncture. In most cases, this is not possible with run flat tyres. It is also worth noting that, in normal circumstances, standard tyres provide a smoother ride than their run flat counterparts.
Have BMW stopped using run flat tyres?
Run flat tyres were introduced by BMW in 2003 on the Z4 and 5-series models. Over the years more models followed suit and now nearly all of BMWs range leaves the factory with run flat tyres. Run-flat tires can be great insurance against getting stranded due to a flat, allowing you to get to a safe, convenient location for a tow or a tire replacement. They save space and a little gas. Sure, they can be expensive to replace, but not significantly more costly than comparable modern non-run-flat tires.To increase performance and reliability, many luxury automakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW have departed from this model with standard run-flat or extended mobility tires that provide a driving range of 50 miles without the hassle of having to replace a tire.The trade-off to run-flat tires’ convenience is that prolonged driving n a flat can seriously compromise it. These tires are designed to be replaced rather than repaired.Run flat tyres may wear out slightly faster than standard tyres, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. The stiffer sidewalls contribute to a firmer ride, which can lead to increased tread wear, especially if the vehicle’s suspension is not specifically tuned for run flats.
Can I replace my BMW run-flat tires with regular tires?
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. Like many other automakers, bmw equips its vehicles with tires made by established tire manufacturers, including goodyear, pirelli, bridgestone, michelin, and continental. The brand of tires bmw provides varies depending on the year, model, trim level, and wheel size of your vehicle.Based on expert testing and consumer reviews, the top 5 tire brands are generally considered to be Michelin, Continental, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Pirelli. However, the best brand can vary depending on specific needs and vehicle type.
How do run-flat tires feel while driving?
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. Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tyres: Repair Challenges: Run-flat tyres are not easily repairable, and replacements can be more expensive than conventional tyres. Potential for Increased Road Noise: The reinforced sidewalls may contribute to a firmer ride and slightly increased road noise.However, run-flat tires aren’t perfect. Severe punctures or sidewall impacts may still require immediate replacement – and it must be driven at a certain speed/distance. Run-flats are also stiffer, resulting in a harsher ride, especially in vehicles with 20” or 21” inch wheels.Run-flat tyres last about the same time as regular tyres – so between 25,000 and 50,000 miles. Just as with a traditional tyre, a run-flat tyre’s lifespan can vary depending on factors like: Brand – some brands are simply more durable than others.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.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.