Run Flats upon lease return?

I just started a 3-year lease on a 128i. I love the car, but doubt I'll keep it beyond the lease term.
My question is...does BMWNA require me to include 4 matching run-flat tires (like OEM) when I return the car? Or can I return it with 4 matching non run-flats?

I ask because I plan to dismount the RFTs early (while they have some life left), and store them if I'm required to return the car with RFTs without being penalized. I am NOT paying $300/tire while I'm driving this car. I'll just replace with conventional tires and a can of sealant in the trunk.

I have generally found BMWFS to be pretty easygoing in their end of lease inspections, although it sounds like over the years there's been a transition of this inspection work from the dealer to a third party (at least for the area of the country / dealer that I'm in). I think I've also benefited from the fact that I've always turned in one BMW to take delivery of a new one.

I think the key thing would be to not draw attention to any issues with the tires at turn-in. My bet is that if you turn in a clean car with low wear tires, especially if you're trading in for another BMW, you may be in ok shape. If, however, the tires are worn anyway, the price they'll look to charge you is based on the run-flats that are the standard spec for the car. Give the inspector every chance to say "ok, good enough".

They expect 4 run flat tires back on a lease return.

Originally Posted by Bethesda E39

I just started a 3-year lease on a 128i. I love the car, but doubt I'll keep it beyond the lease term.
My question is...does BMWNA require me to include 4 matching run-flat tires (like OEM) when I return the car? Or can I return it with 4 matching non run-flats?

I ask because I plan to dismount the RFTs early (while they have some life left), and store them if I'm required to return the car with RFTs without being penalized. I am NOT paying $300/tire while I'm driving this car. I'll just replace with conventional tires and a can of sealant in the trunk.

The smart thing to do is replace the runflats after say 12k miles and then put them back on before lease return. That's what I did, I'm running Sumitomo HTR Z III XL which I got from tirerack for $78 each. Can of sealant and air pump in trunk. BMW approved runflats are required on lease return.

Originally Posted by mclaren

The smart thing to do is replace the runflats after say 12k miles and then put them back on before lease return. That's what I did, I'm running Sumitomo HTR Z III XL which I got from tirerack for $78 each. Can of sealant and air pump in trunk. BMW approved runflats are required on lease return.

My thoughts exactly.
Wow...am I ever happy I looked up the cost of replacement now vs. later!

How are the Sumitomos?
I'm considering them as well (either that or Dunlop / bridgestone). I want to keep the price below $90 per tire if possible.

Why don't you just call them and ask?

This is far less efficient. I prefer this.

Originally Posted by Bethesda E39

My thoughts exactly.
Wow...am I ever happy I looked up the cost of replacement now vs. later!

How are the Sumitomos?
I'm considering them as well (either that or Dunlop / bridgestone). I want to keep the price below $90 per tire if possible.

I'd either get the Sumitomos or the Hankook Ventus V12 Evo K110. They're both cheap and good.