Are runflats worth the expense?

HELPDESK:Answering all your motoring queries

From LH:

I have a BMW 3 Series and have been told that it needs new tyres. The runflats will cost over €1,000 to replace but I asked at my dealership and the service manager says I can fit regular tyres with a saving of up to €400. He did warn me that it would mean I’d be stuck if I got a puncture. What do you think? Would it damage the car?

I’ve checked with BMW and while they warn that moving from runflats could leave you stranded if you got a puncture, using normal tyres on the car will not damage the suspension. For some form of reassurance, you can also get one of those emergency foam repair kits that will let you crawl to a repair shop if you do get a puncture. It’s not ideal and if you get a major blowout then the foam that’s pumped into the tyres in these situations will be of little use, but if it’s just a minor puncture then they will help.

Runflats are beneficial but they often mean the ride is harder.

The latest versions are much better, but I think you will find that you may well find your car’s ride will also be more comfortable with regular tyres. I’d also suggest you make sure to have emergency assistance cover from either the car firm itself or AA Ireland, just in case.

Weigh up the costs and then work out if you are actually saving anything on opting for regular tyres over runflats.

From PK:

I bought a new Audi A1 in January 2011. Not long after purchase it was taken back after the engine management warning light went on. It spent a week in the garage and I was given a replacement car. Only recently after heading off for a trip to Belfast the engine management light went on again after the engine put itself into safety mode. The car has been in the garage since Sept 3rd. Do I have any other choices but to accept the repairs as this is the second time for the issue to go wrong and it has been four weeks to date off the road. I spent €26,500 on this model adding different options from the basic 1.6TDI sport. They also repaired the car earlier this year due to a problem with the diesel particulate filter.

It’s upsetting when a new car encounters problems, but it should be remembered that the repair costs are being covered under warranty and the dealer has supplied you with replacement cars to limit the inconvenience.

The options under the Sale of Goods Act are not as clearcut as many believe. Given that the car has been suffering several faults it would certainly raise questions but before consumer rights entitle you to a refund there are arbitration facilities that would come into play first. In fairness, both Audi and the dealer have endeavoured to limit the inconvenience. It is always best to make your wishes clear to the dealer first and then if you are unhappy, consider taking matters further.

In relation to the problem with the diesel particulate filter an Audi spokesman said: “Audi does not have any unique issues with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) at present. In certain driving conditions the DPF can become partly blocked with particulate matter which in turns causes issues with the sensor. It is important to note this is a characteristic of all vehicles fitted with a DPF, not just Audis.”

Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara St, Dublin 2 or email motorshelp@irishtimes.com