My BRG '06 MCS (LSD, fogs, V-spokes, and NO sunroof) is built and hopefully soon to be on a boat, while I'm waiting I had some questions....

I'm not thrilled with the whole run-flat concept. Specifically, what I read is that if you get a nail hole, you have to replace the tire (can't use a plug patch as in an ordinary tire). Further, even if you could use a plug patch, you'd have to do it on the spot, because once you've actually driven on the flat run-flat, it's toast.

I'd like to swap the run-flats for regular tires, then carry a little air pump, mobility kit slime, and maybe a plug patch kit.

Except that what happens when you hit a big pothole and the rim is bent enough that the bead won't seal. You have to wait for a tow. Unless you get the temporary spare and stick it in your trunk.

So what is the "right" thing to do with regard to tires?

 

My husband's Vette has had several nails in various tires (Goodyear run-flats) over the years and each time the tire was patched with no problems. Plus the car was driven at least several hundred miles before the tire was fixed. Hope the MINI's run-flats are this cooperative...

 

IMHO the problem with runflats is the harsh ride and added weight they have that retards performance and gas mileage, all of these factors are with you everyday and the chance of a flat, and the senario you allude too is not as likely to happen, but once in the life of the tire !

I'd swap those suckers out ASAP

 

The runflats are similar in weight (a tad higher, maybe) to most conventional tires. The 205/45-17 A/S are 22 lbs and the 195/55/16 A/S are 23 lbs. I had my car delivered with the 16" wheels and the 195/16 runflats and the ride is surprisingly comfortable (IMHO). I'm saving these as my winter wheels. I did opt for conventional 205/45-17 high performance summer tires but I'm not sure they're drastically different in ride comfort to the runflats.

I wouldn't swop the runflats out straight away.....you might as well wear them out and then go the conventional route if you're not happy with them.

 

Anyone have a link to buying the spare from the base MINI Cooper? I know you can get them from a dealer, but haven't seen them online at the dealership's site.