Edmunds CarPool

If you read post #12 in that thread carefully, it appears that the poster attempted to drive in the snow on summer tires, as he or she asks if they should get winter or all-season tires instead.

Recently I had a short bolt removed from the tire outside of the tire's crown. I obviously had run over it. The tire did not go flat or require any repair and has been fine. My local tire dealer said it would have destroyed a go-flat tire.

Can I buy a new 325i with regular rather than RF?

I am not fond of the idea of run-flat tire.

I am not fond of the idea of RFT. They are too expencive and hard to get far from big cities.

Concerning RF tres: Other than flattering themselves on incorporating the latest in tire technology, I have wondered why BMW has cosen run-flats as standard equipment considering what, IMHO, are obvious drawbacks. I believe it is basic economics. It probably costs BMW less to equip a car with four RFs than five complete sets if rim-plus- spare tire. The match may be pretty close, but multiplied by several hundred thousand vehicles a year, it makes consideabler difference in the basic cost to the manufacturer. But from the standpoint of the consumer and enthusiastic driver, consider that , as we are told, most RFs can't (or shouldn't) be repaired; theoretically, that means that each flat calls for a new tire. That, in turn means that the axle involved will have one used and one new tire, not the best for viigorous cornering, therefore a real enthusiast will probable want to ascertain that each axle has tires of comparable wear, therefore two new tires to replace a puncture rather thn one! :-( And then consider the greater cost of fun-flats. Granted, this may decrease in time if these tires become the norm, but at the moment, and for the next several years at least, they are expensive. More pain!
  
Some writers on this forum have proposed repacing the RFs with traditional tires and carryng a spare of some sort in the trunk. Possible. But do the E90s have jacking points--places where a jack can be placed to raise the car in order to install a spare tire in case of a puncture? I haven't checked this. Do the E90s include a jack, or a dedicated place for it in te trunk? Again, I haven't checked.
  
It seems the assumption on the part of the manufacturer is that everybody is going to be within 50 miles of a place where RFs can be replaced. Anybody who drives much in the area between Kansas City and California knows those places can often be few and far between. So what does one do with an expired RFT when it's more than 100 miles to the next available repair shop?
  
IMHO, the negative aspects of this development far exceed any positive features of the RFTs. Only the manufacturer saves a bit of money. The motorist is placed at a real disadvantage.
  
Bryncerdd

I waited a year for the new BMW 325xi sports wagon to come out. When I asked the sales rep about RF tires, he said "when was the last time you even had a flat?" Wrong question, as it had only been a couple of weeks. We drive frequently through Montana, Wyoming and the Dakotas -- not prime real estate for finding a BMW dealership. In the end, the RF tires were a deal breaker, as I would have had to replace them with fixable tires and use up the cargo area carrying a spare and jack. Not exactly a user-friendly situation when you're spending 40K. Instead, bought a Lexus RX 330 and am very happy.

woody11 - I bet there are more people out there like you than we'll ever know. They aren't in the BMW discussions - but off in Lexus or some other luxury brand. I saw similar comments in minivans around the Sienna. Glad you are liking your RX 300!

All this negative talk about RFT's is very dishearting. I just took delivery of a 325i with 16" Turanza M&S rated all season tires. I can't add anything new with only 200 miles on the car, except that they're not noisy.

chalk me up as woody12. i really wanted the 330xi. had started down the price negotiating path until i checked out the run flat thread. googled and came up with the class against toyota and dunlop for early tire failure.
 
i drive 40k miles a year and couldn't risk that kind of tire expense. at over a $1000 a set for all seasons, with the risk of 2-4 sets a year, depending on what you believe, i couldn't do it.
 
went for the g35x instead. nice car, not a 330xi, but it might allow me to keep a few more of my nickels.

Horrible experience with runflats. During the Christmas holiday traveling from Atlanta to Lake Charles, LA the light indicator regarding tires comes on outside of Gulfport, MS around 8pm Friday night. Roadside service says they can get me towed to the nearest bmw dealership on Monday when their open. Put air in the tires thinking it was just unequal pressure in all 4 tires. Get to Lake Charles to find out there was something in one of the tires. It got us further than 100 miles which was great. Closest BMW dealership was 70 miles away with a waiting list nor did they have them in stock. Firestone in Lake Charles didn't carry the tire. To repair the tire you have to go to someone who is certified. Firestone was, but the object was to big to repair. We ended up putting 2 conventional tires on the back since you can't have one runflat and one conventional. Extra expense on us and a inconvinence. Runflats have there advantages, but I believe they need to really think about scenerios people are put in and the disadvantage of not having access to getting another tire. BMW is working with me, but it's been a wild experience.

All this talk of rep[lacing tires in 6-10,000 miles, don't they have a warranty?

I am looking at a 2006 IS350 from Lexus versus a 2006 330xi. I will probably lease. The issue of tires does affect my final decision. I am curious what others do with the extra tires and wheels they have to purchase to be roadworthy in midwest winter driving conditions when their lease is up.
 
Thanks

My problem with the run flats is the incredible shock the car takes when you hit even a meager bump in the road...a pothole is enough to jar your fillings loose. Go over a speed bump in a parking lot at more than 5 mph and you take your life in your hands literally. I have driven pick-up trucks that give you a better ride. If you have a back problem, these tires could land you in a hospital if you hit a big enough bump. Literally. If the dealer will not swap these disasters for regular tires, I will dump the car. It is cheaper to take the hit on the early return on the least than to (1) replace the tires now or (2) suffer replaceing them every 8-10K miles. BMW sure missed the boat using these dogs as OEM tires. They have lost me after 5 BMW's. Hello Lexus?

Have a 330XI for three months. The run flats on the car were horrible. No traction in rain or snow, poor handling in general and an awful ride over the most minimal bumps. I laso own a Porsche Boxster. Comparatively speaking, going over the same bumpy roads/potholes with the Porsche was a pleasure. In fact, my BMW bottomed out so badly on several occasions that the front cowl was damaged and one rim was destroyed.
 
BMW replaced the tires after 2000 miles with Blizzak snows. A lot better but, still not very good. I'm also still in a bind once the weather warms up because the BMW regional manager is not aware of any RUN FLAT tires that can remotely approximate the ride and durability of a non-run flat design.
 
Leave to BMW to take perfection and make it just a little bit WORSE!!! I hope you read this before you purchase a BMW. Run don't walk to your Infinity dealer and check out the M35!!!

I recently picked up an E90, 330xi. It came standard with 17 inch wheels. However, I had the dealer switch the standard all-seasons for 4 Pirelli SottoZeros. I've only put a couple of hundred kms on the car so these are very preliminary comments. However, I have hit heavy rain, driven on gravel roads with serious water damage (ruts) as well as highway and your average city streets (no snow or ice to date).
  
I've found the ride to be very good, with just the right amount of road feel. A pot hole feels like it is supposed to feel with a car with a sports oriented suspension, run-flats or no run flats. Traction is outstanding in both wet (including heavy pooling) and dry.
  
I realise that a blown run-flat is going to be an issue. However, as the technology becomes more widespread (these 3 series will be 10 a penny soon!) the tires will not be so hard to find. Also, there is some advantage to not needing to change a spare out in some dark, treachorous stretch of mountain highway. I think a lot comes down to how far you can *really* drive on these things safely and how reliably they can be repaired. I think that the existing specs reflect the fact that this is evolving technology together with concerns over litigation. I.e. my guess is that you can cover greater distances safely than we are being told. Just don't take my word for it! :-)))

My deposit is down as of last Saturday on Sportswagon but after reading your comments, living in Colorado, I think that I should pass. Have you all talked with the tire dealers and have they seen an increase in wear, punctured tires with these run-flats. Is there a good place to go to on the web to get some overall industry feedback on these tires.

All this is scaring me a little bit. Before I buy couldn't i just have the dealer switch out RF's for regular all season's?

Follow-up from Dec. 24 post: Tire finally went flat and was replaced last week at a cost of $260 at the dealer, lower than at the local D.T. dealer.

Woody11 - I envy you. I made the mistake of actually buying a 120i with run flats and no spare. I have had two flats in 12 months, both of which could be fixed for $20 on a normal tyre, but which required a new tyre with runflats. They cost $500. I'm changing to normal tyres and mounting a spare on a roof rack because I need the boot space for other things - like golf clubs and luggage. Also with runflats and no spare, the car has an effective range, in Australia, of 200km from a capital city.

I drive an 06, 325i and have driven it for 25K miles! We live in rural Texas area and must drive for 45 minutes to civilization (malls, restaurants, movies, etc). As I am writting this, my car is at the dealership to have a cup holder and the side door handle replaced. The cup holder was stuck and the door handle was peeling! Yes, peeling! Is anyone else having that problem. Anyway, I also need to replace ALL 4 TIRES! I also thought that 25K wasn't a lot for new tires to wear out but judging from what I've read, that seems about right. I'm not happy with the cost and I'm very disillusioned with my beautiful car! I'm very concerned with this issue as I'm also one of those drivers that drives about 40K miles a year. I can't afford to replace these tires so often! When we bought it, I didn't know anything about RFT just that they sounded safe but no one mentioned their short life span or how expensive they were. I thought we had done a thorough research. I'm trying to shop around for lower price for the tires, the dealership said that they would match the lowest price. I'm scared to go with standard tires....
I also agree with the noise and less smooth drive. I thought it was my imagination or the road conditions, but now that others have mentioned it, I must say I've noticed that too. I wonder if I should call Infiniti or Lexus....

Karl,
It's been 3 months since you made your initial comments. Whats your latest experience on RFT's?
  
Thanks, Owner6

I usually get about 1 puncture or damaged tyre every 2-3 years in my Mercedes, but having driven a 2005 BMW 330i with runflats for one week, I went thru a pothole (normally would be OK), damaged a front tyre (side wall blister)and had to replace it, and in the same week got a puncture in a rear tyre, drove 8km before I had it replaced, and the sidewall was clearly cracked in one place (looking from the inside).
  
Can anyone advise me if it is 100% OK to use ordinary tyres on the E90?

i am very unhappy with my new bmw330xi the tires give you a terrible ride. now i know why the dealer mentioned wheel insurance but he never told us about these tires they apparently need to replaced all the time i don't know what to do

Sorry for the late follow-up. Our 3 Series is at 8,000 miles an so far so good. I haven't driven it myself for several weeks, but I'm in it for the weekend so I'll be on the lookout for any harsh ride problems. No one else on staff has mentioned anything, so it's probably not an issue...yet.

The main problem with RFTs in our town is that the dealer refuses to repair RFTs. At $240 a pop hitting a nail is an expensive proposition. Add to it that there is a shortage of those tires and you got a perfect recipe for BWM-NA losing customers. Maybe in Europe they clean the streets better...

I have horrible road noise with my '06 BMW 3. Progressive got worse and didn't realize it was that bad until we got a loaner during service. The loaner only had 500 miles on it and was quiet. Dealership said they have numerous complaints and said you will have to replace them for wear soon anyhow. No offer on anything from BMW to make it right. Anyone now of anything we can do?

run flat issues is not limited to 3 series. the 5 series with sport suspension have all of the same issues except that you get a spare- a donut. but the cost, hassle of finding a replacement run-flat, etc are in the 5s too. I feel like taking a picture of my 5 with a fire and rim bungee corded to the roof under the caption "the ultimate driving machine?" and postng this on the web. Undoubtedly, BMW would sue for unauthorized use of there trademark. BTW, I was in Soain and Avis offered me an upgrade to a 3 series BMW. I turned it down, got a Nissan Primavera with full size spare. My US dealer told me that dealers have been forced to take back leased Z4 when run falts were back ordered. Perhaps, there should be a mass movement here. BMW will then "get the message."

Hello bmw owner or soon to become(please don’t do that).Here is the letter I have sent to BMW President regarding those BRIDGESTONE RFT EL 42.You wont believe it.Read it its worth it.
 
                                                                                                                      August 23 2006
Mrs. Leah Zinkhan/Mr Lindsay Duffield
Executive assistant/President CEO BMW Canada
BMW CANADA
 
As we spoke ealier today here is my story.Sorry for the writing I'm french.
After reading and talking to a different garage(BMW) that i was not
the only one having problem with those RFT bridgestone tires i decided to
write my story.This is my second new BMW i owe a 2006 325I.I live in
Canada and i only have about 25500km or 18000 miles on it.Problem start
after 2000km.Tires where noisy and handling was different so i call
different BMW dealer an look around for answer they told me at Elite BMW
Ottawa,Canada that it was normal cause the tires are new and they are RFT
so the handling is different.I said ok with time it should be better.Not
exactly.It's worst.Sometimes i think i have problem with my directions at
slow speed cause it vibrate.Over 20000km,to make the thing worst i ran
over a scew.So itook my car to my BMW dealer.They inform me to my surprise
that you can extract a srew from a RFT.So I have to replace the tire.Cost
$400 including inst-bal and taxes.So I ask that everytime I have or hit
something with that car I'm gonna have to replace that tire??? $400
each???They told me yes.I said ok ill think about that.Imagine my car was
not running great at first with 4 new tires.let say im changing that tire
im gonna have 1 new and 3 used wright!Do you think the ride gonna be
better???I dont think so.My other option its to change all 4 ($1600)even
if 3 tires still good.What to do???I call BMW customer service line on
August 10th speaking to Stephanie telling her about my problem and she
refered me to Jim Deloughery at Elite BMW.He call me wright after saying to
me that he's gonna have a look at my car on August 18th and work something
for me.Im very disapointing in that car just because that RFT even if they
change it I dont understand why BMW did the switch for those RFT anyway.
On friday aug 11th i woke up an find that the tire that had an nail in it
i had a flat RFT.Remember I was suppose to go back to my dealer on friday
aug. 18 th?Call the service manager Jim, back on Monday aug 14th telling
him about my problem that i couldnt wait till friday.So he had a look at
it an just by passing his hand(honest to god) on my 4 RFT,said that
something was wrong with the 2 front tires.He didnt even have to test
drive the car!!!After complaining and talking a bit about my problem(by
the way he was trying to deny it) with the handling and tires he told me
that he's gonna try to get 2 brand new tires from Bridgestone for me.Again
i was telling him about getting 2 new tires in front 1 with a nail at the
back an another one but used at the back.Do you think that my car gonna
run great with 2 new only?I dont think!So again saying to me that he'll
see what they can do with that,an call me back later on Monday.I was on my
way back home when my BMW dealer Elite,Ottawa,Canada call me back saying
that i have to come back cause bridgestone wants the serial numbers for my
tires and tread measurement.So i had to go back tuesday morning aug. 15 in
order to give them the information.So i went back with that.I told me that
he is trying to get me 4 new tires from Bridgestone.While I was waiting
for my car i've look around on their lot to see if their 3-series was
equipped with Conti or Bridgestone.It was about half.Anyway he is suppose
to call me back this tuesday or wednesday.Even if they replace with 4 new
should I have confidence with those Bridgestone tires???No.Remember my
dealer Elite Bmw,Ottawa was supposed to change at least 2 tires and was
trying for 4 tires.So i went back on frid

friday August 18 th 2006 ,so they can
change my tires.Arrive there at 8h00 am.The service manager Jim Deloughery
told me that he didn get info since tuesday from Pierre the regional BMW
service Manager....very customer oriented!!!So told me that he's gonna
order 2 tires(EL 42)right away to install in front of my car saying that
Brigdestone was back order so he cant get 4...I said ok.wait for about 2
hours.Went back to get my car guess what?...He had just install 1
tire!!!another bs from that manager Jim saying that he was enable to get
the other tire on time ... I had to leave at 11h00 am cause I was heading
to Buffalo,NY about 6 hr from my place!.I tolm him that I was not happy
about that run around the entire week and ask him why that he had wait to
order those tires in the day i was leaving!!!What he did its first he
install the new tire in front and the one that was in front at the
back.Again saying to me that he'll get back to me this week.Do you think
that it was safe for me to drive 6 HRS with tires like
that???Anyway....... Got back to me on tuesday August 22 telling me that
BMW WONT DO ANYTHING FOR MY PROBLEM!So Im stuck with:1 feathered tire at
the front,the other one at the front new,the one that was at the front now
at the back(feathered) and the one I had at the back still there.WERE
TALKING BMW HERE RIGHT?How can you promess something to somebody and lyied
about it?IT WONT STOP THERE.I just call back customer service and I was
talking to Richard Deschamps over there telling him the run around.He took
some note and tolm me that he will get back to me no later than tommorow
with a answer.I told him that I was done with Bridgestone and what I want
to be done was to get 4 new CONTICONTACT tires like other customer did at
NO CHARGE.So he call me back saying AGAIN that they can do anything cause
I have to many KM....easy exit.But I'm complaining since the BEGINNING.He
wanted me to contact Bridgestone with my problem I said what?.Who sold me
that car BMW or Bridgestone???After all I just want my car to run like a
brand new one.Remember I have been dealing with that problem since I had
2000 KM.How can a company like BMW can threat their customer like that and
think that the customer gonna back to BMW.I tought you were customer
oriented.I'm a just tired of the run around.I'm in that business and I
dont think that you cant afford to lose customer for $800 set of
Continental rft tires(at tire rack.com).I had other cars before like
Saturn,Vw,Mitsubishi and had problem before but at least they were happy
to fix my problem and fast....no RUN AROUND!How come I had better service
with those companies???I guess my BMW was not expensive enough or I didnt
buy a 7- series?I thought you where the best in service..... Why do I
have to go through that???Why are you giving me such a hard time.I just
hope that I'm gonna be able to be satisfied(finally) with that car.I just
want to be a proud owner of a BMW like I was before.You are my last
hope...in order to keep me as an BMW owner!
 
Thank you for your time Mrs. Zinkhan
 
I'm expecting a positive reply from your part.
 
BMW....The ultimate driving experience???
 
Eric
 
AFTER ALL THAT READ THE BMW RESPONSE.ENJOY.UNBELIEVABLE!
 
Dear Mr. Fournier
 
We acknowledge receiving your email dated August 23, 2006, regarding your
concern with the Bridgestone runflat tires with which your vehicle is
equipped. We appreciate the time taken to express your concerns.
 
It was with genuine concern that we read of the unfortunate circumstances
related to addressing the issues surrounding the damage to the tire and
the resulting replacement process. As it is the common desire of BMW and
its retailer network to maintain customer satisfaction, we have reviewed
your letter and have taken the liberty of contacting Jim Deloughery,
Service Manager at Elite BMW and our Regional Aftersales Manager to
further discuss this concern.
 
Mr. Delougher

Mr. Deloughery informed us on June 19th the vehicle was diagnosed by Elite
BMW as the tire pressure light was illuminated. The retailer's findings
were that a piece of steel in your right rear tire and that the tire would
need to be replaced. At that time no decision was taken to replace the
tire as this would not be covered under warranty. On August 11th, you
contacted Elite BMW due to same tire now being completely flat. For safety
reasons, BMW does not recommend repairing runflat tires as this repair may
potentially compromise the structural integrity of the tire.
 
As explained to you during our telephone conversation on August 23, tires
are warranted by their specific manufacturer. Your authorized BMW Retailer
can assist you in addressing your concern with the specific parties. Mr.
Deloughery has advised us he did contact Bridgestone and due to the
mileage on the vehicle they would not assist in the replacement of your
tires. Mr. Deloughery also advised us there are no records of this concern
being mentioned at 2000 kms.
 
As a gesture of goodwill BMW has provided you with one tire at no cost to
you. We trust that you understand that this is our final position in the
matter. We value our BMW customers and are sorry that we were unable to
meet your expectations.
 
Thank you for contacting BMW Group Canada.
 
Sincerely,
 
Customer Service
BMW Canada
 
*** Elite BMW : Jim Deloughery, Service Manager
Regional Aftersales Manager
 
À : leah.zinkhan@bmwgroup.ca
Object : Not satisfied with my car...The ulltimate driving experience?
 
HERE IS MY RESPONSE TO THEIR E-MAIL.
 
Hi Miss Zinkhan/Mr Duffield
PRESIDENT CEO BMW CANADA
                                                                                                         September 1st 2006
 
I just cant believe that you dont care at BMW about customer complaining
about tose tires and the handling.I was expecting a better judgement from
your part.It seem that I'm wasting my time for more than a year by writing
to you at customer service or calling my dealer.By the way I'm sorry if at
the beginning I was a fool by trusting the advice (and didnt ask the guy
name or asking him to put that in the system) from my BMW dealer over the
phone saying that the kind of handling was due to RFT tires and they were
new!Anyway....Funny cause 2 of my friends were looking to buy your bread
and butter 3-series.Guess what? they were waiting on YOUR decision to
make their mind on my case.Dont get me wrong I like the car and my buddy
too!But do you think they want to put up with that run around?I dont think
so and I dont blame them.You?By the way one will go for Passat and the
other one for the G35.Just to let you know.You losing around
$90000-$100000 just by not replacing my tires for those RFT CONTINENTAL
$800 at tirerack.com.Is it a good investment $800 for $90000-$100000 an a
chance to have repeat customer?You make the call.Before letting you go I
would like you to answer few of my concern regarding Jim Deloughery at Elite bmw Otawa,Canada.Did he told you that those 2 front tires were defective and he was ordering 2
new tires at no charge?How come you re just giving me one.Jim told you
about damaging my rim in front when he install the new tires?Jim told you
that he was to call me back tuesday or wednesday and I had to call HIM
back on thursday?What are you going to do about that?Sorry but enough it's
enough.You dont seem to believe that I had problem since the beginning
cause you dont have it on file and dont tell me that you are not aware
about those BRIDGESTONE RFT EL 42-BMW problem.If you want a few good web
site on that let me know.By the way there a good chance that you will find
me on those web pages.I would like to get the e-mail or office phone
number of the Worldwide President CEO for BMW.It will be appreciate it.I think it's the least you can do.Just like you re saying at the bottom of your letter,let me rephrase th

let me rephrase that for you!"I value the choice of my car and are sorry that you were unable to meet my expectations.For that reason this is my LAST BMW"Thank you all for
your time and support and by letting down your real bread and butter....the CUSTOMER!
 
BMW…THE ULTIMATE CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPERIENCE!
 
Best regards
 
Eric
 
Contact me for any comments or questions.Thank you all
fourniere@hotmail.com

Karl:
  
I believe the BMW 330 that you used for long-term test is equipped with 18 inch wheels. The Run Flat Tire problem with Bridgestone that people have been complaining about is associated with the tires on 16 inch wheels. So, please take a look at those tires and let us know what you think. Thanks.

Hello Karl:
 
There are now nearly 400 posts from 71 users on the BMW 3-series run-flat discussion board--almost all complaining about the tires. It's been nine months into your experiment. with the RFTs.
 
Which tires do you have? Do you have an update for us on how those tires are doing? Any information appreciated!

Yes, maryscenter I have the problem of the paint peeling on the drivers side door handle. How did you handle it with teh dealer, did they give you any grief?

Bought a 2006 325i two months ago and already got a flat tire. I never had RFTs before, and this was my first flat in 15 years. The BMW dealer tells me that there is no evidence that RFTs are more susceptible to flats than a regular tire, but I find that hard to believe. A technician at a local Just Tires location told me that the increased weight of RFTs make them more susceptible to puncture and also make them wear faster. Does anyone have any suggestions for dealing with this issue? I've considered replacing my RFTs with normal tires and keeping a spare wrapped in a tarp in my trunk.

I have a 2006 325i
Had started to suffer the grinding noise after about 2000 mile, At abut 10,000 the dealer changed them for free to Continentals. After another 2000 miles the Continentals started to make noise. Nor I have around 12800.
 
This is not he only problem I have the other is the clunky manual clutch.
The other one was a transaxle that was 1” shorter and was banging front to back any time I braked or accelerated. This was fixed.
 
My son has a 2003 325i and I had purchased the 2006 because I liked his.
 
Nor I am convinced that the resale values of these cars will nosedive because of the reliance on RFs:
- There is no space in the trunk for a spare
- RFs could not repaired
 
This story will go down as one of the great blunders of the carmaking and it will hurt BMW.
I bet soon will be seeing redesigned trunks with spares on the 3 series, and then ours will worth less.

I have a 2006 330i w/ sport and premium pkg. The car is under 8k miles and so far I have had a back tire go flat last week and another today (still unknown to which for I have not taken it in yet). Last week to get a new tire put on it was around $420. Today I found a website that I was wondering if anyone else has come across and if so what have you done. Everyone says this issue needs the attention of BMW to fix it I just dont know if this is the way.
 
http://www.bmwclassaction.com/

The internet is a great thing. I test drove a BMW 328i last week and the dealer is out looking for one to my specifications. I was looking forward to purchasing my first BMW since I sold my 2002 model fifteen years ago. No way will I touch the run flat tire. I was even going to get the sport package that has worse tire issues. Of couse not a word about this at the dealer. I can't imagine buying a $40,000 car and putting $2000 of tires on it yearly. Maybe I'll check back when they get the issue resolved, but by then I will probably be driving something else. Do your homework. I got lucky because all the hits on the 328i were good reviews and I happened to put the tire in the search engine and found a dozen forums about the RFT issue, including a class action suit. Thanks

Been driving for freekin 10 years. Never had a flat tire. Just brought 325i six months back (brand new) and already got a flat tire. Tire got bursted on the freeway while driving 80 m/hour... donno how many flats do i need to expect with this little dream toy i brought... BMW thanks for flattening your customers...

To those complaining about "only" getting 25K miles on a set of speed rated tires... that's better than average. These aren't high mileage touring tires, they're performance tires. 20K is about the maximum average you can expect from them.
 
As to run flats: BMW recommends far too low a pressure for the ones on my 2006 330i. When they get to 28 psi, they get very noisy. They're 51 max PSI tires, and running 40/45 front/rear PSI makes them much quieter, and much better performing on the occasional pothole. The fronts will also wear much more evenly @ 40-45 psi than the recommended 30, which causes excessive shoulder wear, a classic sign of under pressurized tires.
 
I also find that rotating the tires (mine use 225/50s all around) will potentially extend tire life to 30-35K.
 
So hopefully this helps you out. I am looking for an after market spare for my 2006 so I can switch to regular tires, which will run quieter than run flats and are less expensive to boot.

2006 330Xi with Sport package (because I wanted the extra thigh support that comes with those seats. Did not want run flats, nor the absence of the spare, but could not get the seats without the package.
 
The run flats at 15,000 miles are about shot. The noise level started to go up tremendously at about 9 or 10,000 miles. I used to love the car. Now sometimes I hate it. On some roads, (really smooth asphalt) the noise just destoys the driving experience. BMW must have its blinders on. Time to admit a mistake and give some choices, and some solid advice as to what to expect from run flats. Are they in cahoots with the tire makers. Come on......$400 tire replacements for a tire that punishs over bumps and nearly causes driving errors when hitting a bump or a pot hole.
 
Bridgestone Turanza 225/45R17 91H
 
This is my first BMW (among 3 previously owned) since the '97 Model purchased in Aug 06), and may possibly be my last

I'm considering buying a 335i convertible with sports package. After reading the comments on RFTs both here and on other sites, I've changed my mind. I just don't need the hassles. No more BMWs for me.
 
Any idea on if or when BMW will resolve these issues?

FROM:
"ron63 - Mar 28, 2007 8:31 am (#42 Total: 44)
   To those complaining about "only" getting 25K miles on a set of speed rated tires... that's better than average. These aren't high mileage touring tires, they're performance tires. 20K is about the maximum average you can expect from them. "
 
What most of these people are complaning about is not replacing tires, it is replacing tires prematurely and lack of support from BMW. I have had few BMW's and now have an 2006 330XI. These are the first low-profile tires that have worn unevenly, and i have a hard time believing it is just the tire and these cars are not setup wrong from the factory. The dealership offered to put the same tires back on for half off, which is nice but is missing the point. My rear tires are wearing evenly however my front tires are bald on the inside, which can be resulted from too much negative camber will result in premature wear on the inside of the tire and cause excessive wear on the suspension parts. They very adamant that it is not the suspension even though they have yet to see the car. I will follow up after my service appointment.

My wife and I bought a 2006 325I in December of 2006. The EL42 Run flats started getting noisy at 8000 miles, by the time I brought the car in at 15K miles for service the tire noise was deafening. After much complaing and another 2000 miles on the car, we were told BMW would offer to replace the defective EL42's and we would only have to pay 50% of the cost. That was in March of 2007. Today, with 4500 miles on the new set, I had to authorize Braman BMW in Miami to replace one of the EL42's as it has a nail in it. Cost to me $225 plus installation charges.
 
What happens to the performance of the car if you ditch the run flats and get a small spare and a jack to stick in the trunk? Any lawyers out there willing to start a class action suit against BMW?
 
This has got to be the biggest rip-off of all time.

I have a BMW 325i. Just over 12000 miles and the noise from the tires is driving me crazy!! A friend of mine has the exact same car and we had to fight with the dealer over her tires. Finally, they offered them at cost. I ever printed out web forms to show the service manager how many people are complaining about these tires!!! He said "Until we hear something from head office, there is nothing we can do". Well....Now that my tires are screwed, I have to go see them also. I will let you know what happens. BMW The Ultimate Driving Experience????

http://www.bmwclassaction.com/

I must disagree with some of the comments regarding these Run Flat Tires, first my 3 series tires are not low profile, second my dealer West German BMW of fort Washington PA never told us we had them until i had to buy a new tire at 5000 miles due to a flat and now no support at 21K miles and all tires must be replaced at $995.
This is my 7th BMW and I must tell you, my last, I spoke to BMW regional office in NJ and they are aware of the problem but their support is a discrace after paying 38K for a car and now I need to buy 4 tires at each 20K mile rate. If you told me at signing I would need to spend $5000 in tires each 100K in milage i would of went else where ... No excuses this is wrong and a bad decision on BMW of North America!
  
If you were a tuxedo in the next couple of months put on sneakers and see hopw you feel!!!!

I just spent $580 for a tire after driving my car 4000 miles. do not buy 335 . BMW does not cover the tires under warranty and the tires are extremely expensive . dealers do not patch tires. sooner or later, these tire will be recalled from the factory. until then, do not buy .

Hello, I also am having issues with my 325i 2006 run flat tires. My front tires went bald on the outside and inside after just 16,000 miles and look as though they are peeling. My back tires are fine, it's only the front. The middle of my tires are fine. I'm not sure if it's an alignment issue or what. Of course BMW won't do anything about it. Pretty sad that after barely over a year of owning a brand new car, you already need new tires. I've had 2 BMW's this one to be my last. I'm planning to trade it in and be done with them. If this many of us are having problems, I think it's time for them to compensate us for these problems. I plan to just buy tires from somewhere else and be done with BMW. I would not recommend the run flat tires.

I was having problems with my BMW 330 which has 18 inch rims. The noise became so loud that I hated driving my car. My BMW dealership replaced 3 tires and I had to pay for one and was charge the "warranty price" of about $150. They referenced a BMW Service Bulletin which was issued January 2007. According to the schedule in the Service Bullein, they will replace all 4 tires at no cost if brought in within 10,000 miles and will replace 2 tires at no cost if brought in after the 10,000 miles and within 20,000 miles. I had just over 18,000 miles and I complained so they agreed to cover 3 tires. I have read of cases where dealerships replaced all 4 tires even though the mileage was over 20,000.
  
Service Bulletin web site:
http://www.bmwtis.com/tsb/bulletins/bulletin_graphic_temp/B360606g.htm
  
Class Action Law Suit Website:
  
http://www.bmwclassaction.com/pages/blog.php
  
  
I hope this helps everyone.

I have a 2007 328i coupe with just over 8 thousand miles - and except for two tire pressure warnings (bogus, reset and ok) - the tires have performed marginally well. However, I am, and was aware that there were plenty of RFT issues when I ordered the car, and had already planned on replacing the RFTs with Michelin touring when they go - the sooner the better. My hope is a settlement will be reached and that will offer some renumeration for this tragic BMW blunder. After suffering through the 35k max mile 17" tires when they first came out back in 2000, I was prepared to not suffer through the RFT in the same way.
What infuriates me about BMW is that they invest so much in such a great ride, and risk it all on Bridgestone - the infamous maker of those Explorer tires that killed or maimed how many?
I'll put a real spare in the trunk before I roll on Bridgestone.

Hey,
I have heard that some others have had this same problem. One link that came up for me was http://www.bmwtirenoise.com
Hopefully you can garner some information from that site as well.

I have a 2007 330i. I've had the car for 2 years now (leased) and I got the car with the sports package which included 18" run flat tires. So far I've had *4* flats. DO NOT GET THIS CAR! I used to own a Honda Civic Si that had thinner/cheaper tires and in the 3 years that I owned the civic I only got 1 flat. After my lease is up I'm going to go for an Audi. This will be my first and last BMW since my complaints have been ignored by each BMW representative I've spoken with. I'm now considering swapping the tires with regular non run-flats for the remainder of my lease. Changes are I will get another 2-3 flats within the next year. I'd rather spend $2,000 on a new set of wheels/rims rather than give give BMW another $2,000 for these shitty ass defective tires.

Just so much griping.
I've had my 2006 330i for about 2 years, 34,000 mi.
I replaced my rear run flats at 30,000 mi. I am still on my OEM front tires.
Car rides fine. No more noise, no rougher ride than expected in a sports sedan. Handling is excellent.
You want a floaty ride? Then, indeed, get a Lexus.
So far all service on the car has been free. I, too, had the peeling inside door handles mentioned earlier. Dealer replaced them free, no hassle, and said the problem with early models has been fixed and it shouldn't happen again.
I am a pretty compulsive guy and might throw a spare in the trunk for long road trips. Not a big deal.
The car (tires included) is great.
Quit belly aching!

I know this has been beat to death, but I have 2006 325I that needs another set of tires. I am not replacing with RFT. I live in Florida so I am looking for summer tires. Can you please give me some brands that BMW owners have used and are happy with the performance of the tire. Thanks