Replacing RFT with non-RFT during Warranty

StevenZ · 07-31-2010, 02:20 PM

I just got a new 2011 E92 Coupe and I'm anticipating the day that I need to replace the RFTs which will happen during the warranty period. If I switch to non-RFT, is there any potential denial of Warranty issues by BMWNA by simply switching from RFTs to non-RFT if I maintain the same tire size?

I figure you guys have probably crossed the bridge before and just want to be prepared "for the day..."

Tom K. · 07-31-2010, 04:21 PM

No.

cb1111 · 07-31-2010, 04:59 PM

Depends on the problem.

In theory, the dealership could deny warranty service on suspension related issues. Will they? Probably not, but it certainly is possible.

pruettfan · 08-01-2010, 06:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cb1111

Depends on the problem.

In theory, the dealership could deny warranty service on suspension related issues. Will they? Probably not, but it certainly is possible.

Not sure they could even do this in theory. They would have the burden of proof and I cannot think of a single potential suspension issue that would be effected by the choice of tire if it were to remain the factory size.

cb1111 · 08-01-2010, 07:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pruettfan

Not sure they could even do this in theory. They would have the burden of proof and I cannot think of a single potential suspension issue that would be effected by the choice of tire if it were to remain the factory size.

BMW specifies RFTs. The RFTs have a stiffer sidewall and the dealer could argue that the suspension is calibrated for the stiffer sidewalls.

They would actually have a defensible position - but - like I said, it is unlikely.

welkerbrads · 08-01-2010, 09:11 PM

Took my car in for my 30k oil change. The service manager walk around my car to do the inspection and came in and said nice tires. I have Michelns Primacy's non rft.

Bimmer Al · 08-23-2010, 09:11 PM

They cannot tell you what kind of tires to put on your car.

cb1111 · 08-24-2010, 08:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bimmer Al

They cannot tell you what kind of tires to put on your car.

They certainly can (and do) tell you what types, sizes and load range of tire to put on your car in order to keep that portion of the warranty intact.

3Coupe4Me · 08-24-2010, 09:01 AM

It should not void your warranty.

cb1111 · 08-24-2010, 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 3Coupe4Me

It should not void your warranty.

I don't know how much clearer I can make this.

ANY deviation from OE may be cause for the dealer to deny warranty service if they believe that the modification caused the issue.

While unlikely, it is possible that the dealer could say that non-RFTs caused a suspension issue.

Once they have said that, it is up to you to show otherwise. Can you do that? Do you have evidence that shows that non-RFTs don't cause suspension issues?

BMW has evidence showing the contrary - that is why they put warnings in the owner's manual and on that sticky in your window.

Does that mean you shouldn't mod your car? Of course not, but you must be aware of the possible consequences - no matter how slight.

07-31-2010, 02:20 PM	#1
StevenZ New Member 0 Rep 19 Posts Drives: 2011 335i E92 Montego Blue Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Lake Stevens, WA iTrader: (0)	Replacing RFT with non-RFT during Warranty I just got a new 2011 E92 Coupe and I'm anticipating the day that I need to replace the RFTs which will happen during the warranty period. If I switch to non-RFT, is there any potential denial of Warranty issues by BMWNA by simply switching from RFTs to non-RFT if I maintain the same tire size? I figure you guys have probably crossed the bridge before and just want to be prepared "for the day..."
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07-31-2010, 04:21 PM	#2
Tom K. Major General 124 Rep 5,627 Posts Drives: '07 328iT, '13 Boxster Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Maryland iTrader: (0)	No.
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07-31-2010, 04:59 PM	#3
cb1111 I ask the questions you're afraid to ask. 44 Rep 2,489 Posts Drives: 335xi Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: DC iTrader: (2)	Depends on the problem. In theory, the dealership could deny warranty service on suspension related issues. Will they? Probably not, but it certainly is possible.
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08-01-2010, 09:11 PM	#6
welkerbrads Private First Class 10 Rep 120 Posts Drives: 2011 white X3 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: cape girardeau mo iTrader: (0)	Took my car in for my 30k oil change. The service manager walk around my car to do the inspection and came in and said nice tires. I have Michelns Primacy's non rft.
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08-23-2010, 09:11 PM	#7
Bimmer Al Lieutenant 24 Rep 597 Posts Drives: 2010 335xi Coupe MSport, 6MT Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Ontario, Canada iTrader: (0)	They cannot tell you what kind of tires to put on your car. __________________ *2010 335i xDrive Coupe, Titanium Silver, MSport 6MT* 2006 325i Sparkling Graphite Sport Package 6MT Retired 1999 323i Titanium Silver, Sport Package, 5MT Retired
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08-24-2010, 09:01 AM	#9
3Coupe4Me Private First Class 81 Rep 177 Posts Drives: 2007 328i Coupe Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: S.FL iTrader: (1)	It should not void your warranty. Last edited by 3Coupe4Me; 08-24-2010 at 10:19 AM..
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