My 2005 Z4 needs to have its rear tires (not staggered) replaced after 4 years-18K miles of easy driving on good roads. The fronts still have 6/32 of tread left, and no signs of unequal wear. I can get 2 patched (nail-like punctures in middle of tread--6-7/32 treads) original Potenza 225X50X16 that show no signs of unequal wear for $150 plus blancing and mounting. Now, of course, I'm not crazy about RFTs, but it will cost me about $700 (total) to get the convential tires I like. There is a very reasonable savings if I go with the patched tires. Now I don't want to be penny-wise and pound foolish, but if the patched tires were thought to be safe, I'd go with them. So, what do you guys think about this?
Should I get patched RFTs?
- Thread starter Flycaster
- Start date
Did a little more research on this issue and have had a few replies from this forum and from a couple of other Z4 forums. Consensus is that although RFTs can be patched, there are just too many other variables that enter into the picture to make me feel secure in getting patched tires. Some of the things to be aware of is how long has the tire run while flat (no way of knowing and running at more than 50 mph or for more than 100 miles will compromise the tire), was the tire fixed in accord with RFT specs, and whether or not the side wall has been damaged (very difficult to tell on RFTs)? Since buying the tires from a "used tire dealer" really can't answer these questions with assurity, I've opted to get new non-RFTs on all corners.
I'd echo these comments. I purchased some 108's to refurb and one had a puncture repaired RFT on it. Once removed I found 2 hands full of rubber balls and dust inside where post deflation the tyre had been compromised, repaired and used again. Inside the wall was falling to bits despite looking OK externally. Total deathtrap if it had been driven on. :thumbsdown:
I'll be getting Potenza RE960s the beginning of next year. Research shows that one can not trust whether or not the patched tires were driven before patching...can't take that chance as if they were, then the sidewall (the "meat" of the RFTs) will have been compromised.
