Space Saver Spare
 

Sorry if this doesn't make much sense but I am a novice. I just ordered a 2011 X5 35d and I understand that they come with no spares as they have run-flat tires.
Could someone tell me if I would need to add a $150 space-saver spare to my order? I understand that run-flats are good for 90 miles at 50 mph so I might need a real spare in that case.

Thank you,

MaitreZ

Space Saver Spare
 

It is a good use of $150 - with it, you can later move to non-runflat tires if you wish. It also provides some peace of mind for the runflats themselves, as it is possible that the tire integrity could be compromised enough to make them undriveable.

You can't get a third row seat if you order this - but I recommend this option strongly.

Thank you. Dealer tells me it's too late since they placed the order to the manufacturer on Saturday PM. I guess I missed the opportunity. I feel like canceling the order since I don't see much cooperation from the dealer.

I have been using run flats for 5 yrs now - never had a need for a spare. I did run on 0 psi for 70 km at one point though, the tire was a wreck but no damage to the rim (which is a $2500 OEM item).

Thank you. I guess I'm gonna let it go. Dealer is willing to re-order another car for me if I decide to go that venue, but I think I'm gonna pass.

I never used the spare in my last three cars. I have had nails and screws in the tires but never had a leak that was bad enough to use the spare. I just add air until I get to where it can have the tire fixed. I don't have a spare in my X5 and I just carry a small 12 volt compressor in the X5. I am not worried.

Chuck

Thank you. What kind of mileage should I expect from an RFT?

Continental Tire Repair Kit
 

I was trying to add a spare to my 2009 X5 recently, only to find that it was ove $300 for the space saver spare. I purchased the Continental Repair kit from Tire Rack for $70. It comes with a 12v compressor and sealant. Much quicker, safer and less expensive than purchasing a full size spare. Just a thought..

The dealer told me the run flats could not be repaired, and new ones cost more than standard tires ($400-$600 depending on size, brand, etc),
is it true that they cannot be repaired ?

I got a third row seat, but I also ordered a separate regular spare, just in case.
I put it in a BMW tire cover and use it for long trips only. Texas is too big, and a BMW service tow truck can take hours to get to some places.

No, it is not true. They can be repaired depending on where the damage is, and also depending on how long/fast you drove on it when flat. If it is cut in the sidewall, it can't be repaired. But if it is damaged in the tread area, there is a combination of plug and inside patch to repair it, from the inside. The only reason it can't be repaired then is if you drove on it long enough to damage it from heat.

When I got a flat on one, I pumped it up, and monitored it, while I drove to a tire store. They inspected it, and were happy to fix it. The tire companies had issued instructions on how to repair them. That was about five years ago. Cost $40.

The dealer is not likely to be able to repair them, and besides, they make good money selling tire insurance.