What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

I get good mileage from my BMW 5 Series on low profile tyres.

I have read with some interest your reader reports about low profile tyres and their problems. I have had a 2007 BMW 535d Sport from new with 245/35x19 (front) and 275/30x19 (rear), all Conti Sport Contact 3s. I do drive very carefully, avoid all potholes and never drive over the sloping sides of speed cushions. The car has massive torque that makes for excellent 'press and go' acceleration, which is addictive and lovely. I get 30,000 miles from the fronts and 20,000 from the rears. I consider this to be quite good mileage. The ride is firm but not unacceptable. My only major problem is the high replacement cost. All four will require renewal at 60,000 miles shortly and this works out at exactly £1,000, which is rather poor value. I could fit a much cheaper make of tyre but I really like the Contis. I hope this gives some balance to your readers.

Asked on 12 October 2013 by GW, Darlington

Answered by Honest John
That's very good, and a car with this sort of power and torque needs high performance tyres. My objection is to cars that do not have this level of performance being fitted with ridiculous bling wheels that cost the owner three times what he should be paying for fuel, replacement tyres and buckled rims, and also result in great discomfort. It's an objection shared by hundreds (if not thousands) of readers who have made the mistake of buying a car with ridiculous wheels and tyres. You didn't. Your car needs them.
Similar questions
I was interested to read that you are currently running a Mazda 5 1.6 diesel. I sold my 5-year-old 63,000 mile Mazda 5 1.9d Sport prior to going on a long trip to New Zealand and am now looking to replace...
I am in the market for a convertible and know you extol the virtues of the FIAT 500. Would it be silly to pay the extra for an Abarth pokier version, or just go for a top engine ordinary FIAT 500C? My...
I'm looking to change my 2007 BMW 120D SE (I have been really happy with this car) and would welcome your advice on possible replacements. My annual mileage of 7000 precludes a diesel with a DPF, but I...
Related models
Nicely balanced and enjoyable handling, sharp styling, modern-looking interior, great range of engines including impressively efficient diesels.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer