36 12 005 Replacing a runflat tire

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Follow the fitting machine manufacturer's operating instructions.

It is absolutely essential to ensure that the equipment is in proper working condition and that there is no damage to the disk wheel and tire.

After completion of work, balance wheels. Refer to 36 10 508 STATIONARY WHEEL BALANCING .

IMPORTANT: Only fitting machines which are approved for fitting runflat tires may be used! Please refer to the operating instructions of the respective fitting machine for details of the exact fitting procedure. Use only BMW-approved plastic-covered tire irons. Use only BMW-approved tire mounting paste. For approved wheel/tire combinations, tire makes and optional extras, refer to manufacturer's reccomendations.

NOTE: Pay attention to different tire markings:

Item (1) Marking denoting BMW-approved tires. Ensure that only BMW-approved tires are fitted.
Item (2) RSC is the abbreviation for R unflat S ystem C omponent (runflat tires).
Item (3) Outside. The tire must be fitted so that the wording "Outside" is always situated on the outside of the rim.

IMPORTANT: Many tires are directional! The arrow on the tire must point in the direction of travel for each wheel!

Fig 1: Identifying Tire Markings

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After completing fitting, first release clamping claws.

Inflate with air (without valve insert).

Increase pressure up to 3.3 bar in stages (jumping pressure).

If the tire bead does not slip fully past the rim edge all round, do not under any circumstance increase the pressure.

Release air, force off tire bead again.

Coat rim flange with tire mounting paste again.

Inflate tire again up to 3.3 bar.

When tire beads are resting perfectly on rim shoulders, increase inflation pressure to max. 4.0 bar to "settle" tire.

Screw in valve insert and correct tire pressure.

Run Flat Indicator (RPA), refer to 36 11 000 INITIALIZING TIRE DEFECT INDICATOR (RPA) .

After completion of work, balance wheels.

IMPORTANT: Advise the customer to avoid heavy acceleration in the initial period. The mounting paste can cause the tire to turn on the rim and give rise to imbalance.

Fig 2: Pressing Tire Bead Using Mouning Finger

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.