A frequently asked question on
BMW forums is in regards to replacing run-flat tires with conventional
non-run-flat tires. There is much debate about this topic.
What should you do if you only
need two tires? Can you replace just two tires with non-run-flat
options while keeping the other two run-flat tires on the vehicle? The best
advice I can give is to avoid mixing run-flat tires and non-run-flat tires.
The
consensus between tire manufacturers, automobile manufacturers, customer
feedback and real life experience is that mixing run-flat tires with
non-run-flat tires often causes very unstable handling. This is especially true
at highway speeds and when making turns with the vehicle, even at moderate
speeds.
Why does this occur? Most run-flats have stiffer
sidewall construction to maintain stability during an air pressure loss. Stiff
sidewall designs are what primarily give run-flat tires their quick steering
response and firmer ride. Installing tires on the front of a vehicle that has
handling characteristics very different from the rear tires results in a
vehicle that feels loose and not planted to the road. This is similar to a
person trying to jog a few miles while wearing a snow boot on one foot and a
tennis shoe on the other.
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