Run Flat Tyres

[mini_ralf]

Yep.. Low profile tyres tend to tram line and pull when going over bumps or ruts in the road. The fact that you are using the run flat tyres doesn't helps as they are very stiff and thus don't absorb bumps etc too well. Since changing to proper tyres I've found that the ride and handling have improved significantly.

[teddysammy]

TVM that confirms its the tyres, will have to try a different make when i renew them soon

[wiz 1]

Run flats are devils work, don't handle, weigh to much and cost a fortune - if you can live without a spare get rid as soon as poss when you change the tyres its like a different car. Upgraded mine to 18" lensos with toyo T1r's, still tramlines at speed though but quieter and smoother ride even on 18s, would recommend sticking to 17s though handling would be fantastic and a lot cheaper, the 18s look the biz though ! Spares not a problem join the AA etc and keep a can of slime in the boot.

[Naughty Magpie]

wiz 1 said:

Run flats are devils work, don't handle, weigh to much and cost a fortune - if you can live without a spare get rid as soon as poss when you change the tyres its like a different car. Upgraded mine to 18" lensos with toyo T1r's, still tramlines at speed though but quieter and smoother ride even on 18s, would recommend sticking to 17s though handling would be fantastic and a lot cheaper, the 18s look the biz though ! Spares not a problem join the AA etc and keep a can of slime in the boot.

What he said

[redlake27]

There is a big difference between tyre brands though, whether run flat or not. The Autocar long term test Cooper S in 2004 ran on all 3 17" tyres - Dunlop, goodyear and Pirelli with dramatic differences. The Dunlop SP9000 was the recommended one. I'll try and find a link or cutting of this feature.

[teddysammy]

I had my steering checked by BMW under warrantly due to the excessive play on the steering, which they said was the run flat tyres, they found wear in the steering & replaced the bottom half of the steering column, this has improved the play 100%. As my car is only two years old from new, it is advisable of others have also been told its the tyres,it may pay to have the steering checked.