What's up with run-flats?

[Hot Hansel]

I hate asking this novice question, but here goes:

I recently purchased a 2006 325I with 10k on it, in basically new condition. I've owned a number of BMWs, but none with rfts. Is it just me or are they incredibly stiff and not very easy to drive with? I have almost driven off the highway if both hands are not on the steering wheel! Oh, btw I do not have the active steering option and I have stock 17" wheels (sport package).

I called the local dealer to inquire about it and, of course, the service dept. was rude and acted like I was crazy!

Just wondering if anyone else has experienced this. I'd feel a whole lot better.

[NSM]

Yes, RFT's suck, plain and simple. Your best bet is going to just be to buy new tires or if you plan on upgrading your wheels go that route. I have a 2006 330i with the 18 sport package wheels and tires and the tires were HORRIBLE!

[tdc]

Using run-flats has to be one of the top worst ideas BMW has made.

They perform like crap, super expensive, and wear like total shit. Best thing to do is replace them with regular tires when they wear out shortly. Who cares if you don't have a spare, that's what friends (and Roadside Assistance) is for!

[ESP]

The decision to put Runflats on the MINIs was a bad one too. The ride, handling and overall driving experience is much much better...

TDC has the right idea, friends and roadside assistance.

[Hot Hansel]

Thanks! I thought I was going crazy or there was something very wrong with my car (besides the tires)

[tws]

Well here is the short version.... In order to hold up a tire that dose not have air in it the rubber will need to be stiff. With stiff side walls the tire will not flex to conform to the road as corners are taken.

Pepole do not have time to check the air in there tires any more or care to and most people do not know what a lug wrench is! When a tire is run low on air it heats up the side walls and this causes the side walls to fail and blow out if not addressed. The run flat tires will wear on the insdes and out side edges and causing cupping if run low on air but the side walls will hold. It is common, seen alot and a know problem with run flats.

TWS,

[JonathanHunt]

Is there a way to check if somebody's tires are run flats?

[tws]

If you look on the sidewall of the tire, it may have RSC or RFT. It depends on the manufactor.

Run flats sound like a great idea when you have a flat tire and are not in a good area to stop or do not want to get you hand dirty.

TWS