Lovin' the new MCS.

I'm wanting to get together a set of winter tires and seeing how I'm not really a fan of runflats anyway, I'm considering getting non-runflats for the winter to save money and increase my options.

Are there any error messages that will display on the on-board computer if I'm running without TPMS sensors?

If I get a flat, can I still get some help from Mini Roadside Assistance?

Anybody use either of these products (conticomfort kit or dynaplugs) in a pinch with success?

Thanks for the advice!

 

I believe there is an error message. The sensors can be easily used with non-runflat tires, though.

The alternative is to build a sealed tube with a pressure valve and throw your sensors in there. Just keep it in the car and it will maintain the signal between the sensors and the car.

 

I replaced my runflats with Michelin Pilot A/S Sport PLUS tires and really like them. I mounted them on the factory web spoke wheels, so the TPMS remained intact. I think you will find your answer in the tire and wheel forum and the computer will fuss w/o the TPMS.

I have the conticomfortkit but have not used it yet. It is very compact (6 pack size).

You will get roadside assistance during the covered period regardless of what tires you are running. Good luck. The ride, handling and noise level are all much better without the runflats.

 

Hey! I just purchased a separate set of wheels and tires for the winter (Steelies and Blizzaks). I am getting a second set off tpms so I don't have to keep mounting/dismounting the wheels/tires and just have each set ready to go between our two major seasons.
If you are interested, I haven't gotten them yet- but Tire Rack carries the OEM ones for under $200.

 

I don't know if I have the sensor. I take that back I know I don't have it and I switched from the stockers to Enkei OR25 17x7s with Falken 215/45/R17s and it is a major difference in the ride. Its smoother and handles better. Just do it you won't regret it.

 

I have the exact same tires. Performance with the A/S reliability. I like the tires. I upgraded to 17" with some aftermarket lighter wheels, Besides the road noise reduction, better handling and ride, I've noticed the torque steer to be reduced too. Did you notice that or am I imagining it.

Unless you are tracking your car or just 'have' to put performance tires on, these tires are the way to go. Here in Cincinnati, our snow is not so intense that I can justify the added cost of a second set of wheels [wheels + tires +TPMS] for what amounts to 4 or 5 days of really bad snow on the roads. I went all of last winter with the OEM performance runflats and was 'ok' except for a few dicey momments.

Whatever you decide to do, rotate them religiously. I got 33,000 out of my runflats. Never more than 5000 miles without rotating.

 

Remember MINI roadside assistance will only tow to the nearest dealer.

 

what does everyone keep in the car. i was thinking about one of the green slime kits ( http://www.slime.com/product/281/Pow...%2370004).html )with patch kit/slime/inflator.

I've still got the stock conti's but going to either pilot sport a/s plus or re960 a/s when these are done. had both before and like them both differently.

in the winter i've got one year on 16" blizzaks and meant to get a roadside kit together last year but never did. glad i didn't have to use it!

 

nothing if I get a flat I get a flat

 

Compared to the S loaner that I have driven the torque steer on my S is much less. Can't say that this solely the result of the Michelins but I have seen other posts on the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S PLUS that said torque steer was less.

I really like this tire and it has a 45k treadlife warranty. The ride is really good, turn in is crisp, and it grips well dry or wet. Check out the owner's survey at www.tirerack.com - very highly rated by its owners. Make sure to get the PLUS as there is an inferior Michelin tire with the same name without the PLUS. The PLUS is new and has three different rubber compounds across tire tread.

 

I have the Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 tires and I thought so highly of them that I am on my second set.

They are wonderful in the wet or dry..Last set I got over 55,000 miles of very spirited driving , and they handle like they are on rails.. Since they are a summer ultra performance tire, they are not recommended for use in snow but I have been caught in light snow in Tahoe and they still performed well..

They have a tread with added rubber on the outside for a better grip on a tight turn without feeling like you are driving on marbles as I have experienced with other tires.

You can find the slime kits with the inflator pump in the automotive department at Wal-Mart for about $30 or less and it works well.. even comes in a nice clear zippered case.

 

I have both, but have not had a flat tire yet. I have used the compressor without the sealant. It works, but is slow. I think that is true of all small 12v compressors. You have to have the engine running to power the cig lighter sockets.

 

Moved to proper area.