Run Flat replacement?

Hello everyone,

This is my first post on Bimmerfest and I'm happy I found this forum!!

I recently had a nail on my runflat on my 328 Sports wagon and took it to the BMW dealer. They told me to replace the entire tire. The nail went straight in and I thought they could patch it.

Are they right with replacing the tire (I'm aware of the legal issues) or could they have patched it? Does anyone have the same experience??

Thanks,

Patrick
Virginia Beach

Welcome to Bimmerfest! I've moved your thread over to the wheel and tire forum. Our resident expert Gary from the Tire Rack should be able to answer your question.

Tim

Although I believe a full replacement is recommended, I have had a couple of run flats on my cars repaired after a nail puncture with no problems afterward. It may depend where on the tire the nail punctured it. Dealers will always tell you to replace them.

You will find tons of discussion on this topic with a quick search.

Generally speaking: A bunch of people have successfully patched a RFT tire when the puncture was well away from the sidewalls and they didn't drive on the tire while flat. The last bit is important since it damages the sidewall. Major tire chains and dealers will not patch RFT tires due to liability since they have no way to really know if the sidewall is damaged. You may have more success at small/independent tire shops.

run flat tires cannot be used if it is flat? Is that an oxymoron?

Originally Posted by Dave 330i

run flat tires cannot be used if it is flat? Is that an oxymoron?

Are you just trying to be funny or do you truly not understand my post?

In case it's the latter: Of course you can drive on a run flat tire. Just realize that by doing so you're lessening the chances of finding a place willing to patch the tire.