Run flats and dealer info

I recently replaced the tires on my 04 530I. Since the selection of performance tires in "run-flat" configuration is limited(and well-overpriced) I opted for a set of really sticky, great-handling Michelins. Problem: the computer tells me I have a flat tire....all the time. My friendly BMW dealer tells me that the car MUST have run-flats or "the computer will become screwed-up" and I should have him(the dealer) immediately strip off my brand new Michelins and purchase a set of the "proper tires for the car" from him. Sorry, but I have a very hard time believing that the "computer" has superior knowlege regarding the construction of a tire's sidewall. Doesn't the computer simply monitor the air pressure.Period. I need help since the wife is about to take the dealer's advice and throw away about nine hundred bucks worth of excellent meats. Thank you.

The car doesn't need run flats. There are either two tires that have different air pressure or you need to reset the Flat Tire Monitor, which I think is described in the manual.

Adjust the pressures then reset the FTM. If it still does it then your dealer has to update/fix your software.

Your dealer is even more ignorant than mine, and mine is very ignorant.

I have non run flats on my 545 and they are fine (quiet).

The tire sensor monitors the rotation speed of the tires, when a tire loses air it has smaller diameter and it rotates at a different speed.

Just set the pressure correctly and reset the sensor, if it still continues to indicate fkat tire, you may need a newer version. Mine did that originally, it would give me false flat warnings, when I upgraded software the problem was corrected.

Thanks for the info. How can a DIY reset the flat tire monitor? This blog amazes me.

From the manual (2005 electronic version):

The initialization finishes during driving,
which can be interrupted at any time.
When driving resumes, the initialization is continued
automatically. When driving with snow
chains or with the compact wheel, do not initialize
the system.<
Control Center, for principle details, refer to
page 16.
1. Open the menu.
2. Select "Vehicle settings" and press the
controller.
3. Select "FTM" and press the controller.
4. Start engine, but do not start driving.
5. Select "Set tire pressure" and press the
controller.
6. Select "Yes" and press the controller.
7. Start to drive.
The message "Initializing" is displayed.
The initialization finishes during driving. Then
the message "Status: Active" appears on the
Control Display again.

can someone recommend new tires for my 2003 530i that are not as hard driving/handling as the origional 235/45/R17 conti sport contacts..I am looking for a "softer" ride if possible.
thanks,

Well, I don't know if these will fit your criteria but I like them a lot:

Goodyear DS-G3

Check out tirerack.com and read up on customer comments for tires and see if you can find what you like there.

thanks..I'll check it out