Yup. It's time to replace these tires. Got waaaaayyyyy more miles out of them than I was expecting. Holy cow. How did that happen? Other than I'm probably driving on wire right now. Crap. I did get them rotated regularly (after pestering my service manager). But, anyway...they're done!

Replacement questions... I know NOTHING about tires, wheels etc. After reading countless threads (thank-you NAM), here's where I'm at...

I've decided to go non-runflats. I know it's a question of "when", not "if" I get a flat tire. I'll do the AAA thing, or some of that tire goop - but I don't think I'll do a donut.

Question 1: Forgive my stupidity, but in getting new tires that are non-runflats, I don't have to replace the rims, right? Okay, that's what I thought. Doh! Be patient, please.

Question 2: After reading countless threads, it seems as if Bridgestone or Continentals are the way to go. Am I on the right track?

Question 3: Can I go to any other tire sales place and be sure they'll get the install/balance/TPM right on my Mini?

Question 4: Other thoughts, ideas, recommendations?

Soooo loving my Mini:
2008 MCS, manual shift. 350-400 miles per week, 50% freeway / 50% surface (potholes). Southern California. I tend to be a bit speedy.

Many thanks,

 

Hi! That's great on the mileage for the RFs. We didn't get 10k of ours.

When replacing tires, so long as you go with the same size on the sizewall that you currently have, then no you do not need new rims (unless they are warped from hitting something HARD). If you want to go up a size or two (or down even) then you'll need new rims (say from 16" to 17" tires).

In my book, Continentals are awesome. I put a pair of ExtremeContact DW's on my wife's and we can now take corners at 10 mph higher than we use to (probably much more, but not going to do that until I put her on the tracks). Bridgestones are good (for the most part). I would also suggest Cooper, Pirelli, Yokohama, Kuhmo, Hankook, and Hooser. Granted, I've only used Pirelli and Continentals, but I know others who have used the other brands and have been very happy.

Going other places ... yes you can. Most are as good or better, but there are also those places that just suck. Do your research on the place you go and if you like their service, stick with them. Mini places seem to overcharge for the most part. I take ours to a place called Tires Unlimited in San Jose (a bit far for you, but giving you an idea).

For your last question, I have no additional thoughts, but do your research for the tire you like. Learn the sidewall, the numbers, and the UTGO meanings. Once you get the hang of those, you'll be confident in the choices you make moving forward rather than solely relying on the advice of others. But like all the rest of us, always happy to help provide our thoughts on whatever is needed.