The BMW 328i is a popular luxury car that has been on the market for several years. One question that many BMW 328i owners have is whether or not their car comes with a spare tire. The answer is no, the BMW 328i does not come with a spare tire.
Instead, BMW has equipped newer cars with run-flat tires. Run-flat tires are designed to allow drivers to continue driving even after a puncture or loss of air pressure, allowing them to reach a service station or repair shop safely. However, some drivers may prefer the peace of mind that comes with having a spare tire.
In this article, we will discuss the options available to BMW 328i owners who want to have a spare tire on hand in case of an emergency.
Understanding the BMW 328i Spare Tire
The BMW 328i is a popular luxury sedan that offers a smooth ride and impressive handling. However, one feature that it does not come equipped with is a spare tire. Instead, newer models of the BMW 328i come with run-flat tires that allow drivers to continue driving for a limited distance even after a puncture occurs.
If a driver experiences a flat tire while driving a BMW 328i, they can use the provided tire repair kit to temporarily seal the puncture and continue driving to a repair shop. However, if the tire is severely damaged or cannot be repaired, the driver will need to replace the tire with a spare.
To replace a flat tire with a spare tire on a BMW 328i, the driver will need to follow a few steps. First, they will need to locate the spare tire kit, which includes a jack and lug wrench. They will then need to access the spare tire, which is typically located in the trunk of the vehicle. Before jacking up the vehicle, the driver should ensure that the car is in park and the emergency brake is engaged.
Once the vehicle is properly secured, the driver can begin the process of replacing the flat tire with the spare. They should position the jack under the vehicle’s designated jacking points and raise the car until the flat tire is off the ground. The lug nuts can then be loosened and removed, and the flat tire can be taken off. The spare tire can then be put on and the lug nuts tightened.
It is important to note that the spare tire on a BMW 328i is not meant to be driven on for an extended period of time. It is designed to be a temporary solution to allow the driver to safely reach a repair shop. Once the spare tire is installed, the driver should immediately drive to a repair shop to have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Importance of Having a Spare Tire
A spare tire is an essential component of any vehicle, including the BMW 328i. It provides peace of mind and ensures that drivers are prepared for unexpected situations. In this section, we will discuss the importance of having a spare tire and the safety measures and emergency preparedness that come with it.
1. Safety Measures
Having a spare tire is crucial for ensuring the safety of the driver and passengers. In case of a flat tire or blowout, a spare tire can help the driver maintain control of the vehicle and avoid accidents. A flat tire can cause the affected wheel to drag on the road, which can lead to a loss of control, especially at high speeds. With a spare tire, the driver can safely pull over and replace the damaged tire.
2. Emergency Preparedness
A spare tire is also an essential component of emergency preparedness. Flat tires can occur at any time, and having a spare tire can help drivers get back on the road quickly and safely. A spare tire can be the difference between being stranded on the side of the road and reaching the destination on time.
Moreover, in case of a blowout or other tire-related emergencies, a spare tire can provide a temporary solution until the damaged tire can be repaired or replaced. This can be especially useful in remote areas where tire repair services may not be readily available.
Features of the BMW 328i Spare Tire
The BMW 328i is a luxury sedan that offers a comfortable ride with a sleek design. One of the features that sets it apart from other sedans is its spare tire. Here are some of the features of the BMW 328i Spare Tire.
1. Size and Dimensions
The BMW 328i Spare Tire is designed to fit perfectly with the car’s wheel size. It has a 5x120mm bolt pattern, which is the same as the standard wheel size of the BMW 328i. The tire diameter ranges from 24.7″ to 27.0″ tall, which is close to the standard tire size of the BMW 328i. This ensures that the spare tire can be used as a temporary replacement until the original tire is repaired or replaced.
2. Material and Durability
The BMW 328i Spare Tire is made of high-quality materials that ensure its durability. It is designed to withstand the weight of the car and provide a safe and comfortable ride. The tire is made of high-quality rubber that is resistant to wear and tear. The rim is made of lightweight aluminum that is both durable and corrosion-resistant.
The spare tire is also designed to be easy to install and remove. It comes with a jack and a wrench that can be used to remove the flat tire and install the spare tire. The jack and wrench are made of high-quality materials that ensure their durability.
Installation Process
Tools Required
Before starting the installation process, make sure to have the following tools:
- Spare tire kit (including jack and lug wrench)
- Wheel chocks or bricks
- Gloves
- Flashlight
- Wheel wedges (optional)
Step by Step Guide
- Locate the spare tire kit in the trunk of the BMW 328i. It should be located underneath the trunk floor or in a compartment on the side.
- Use the wheel chocks or bricks to secure the vehicle in place. Place them in front of and behind the tire diagonally opposite to the one being changed.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire using the lug wrench. Turn them counterclockwise but do not remove them completely.
- Position the jack in the designated area under the car. Refer to the owner’s manual for the exact location.
- Raise the car using the jack until the flat tire is about six inches off the ground.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
- Place the spare tire onto the wheel hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the car back to the ground using the jack.
- Tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench in a star pattern. Make sure they are tightened to the recommended torque specification.
- Check the tire pressure of the spare tire and adjust if necessary.
- Store the flat tire and tools back in the trunk.
It is important to note that the installation process may vary depending on the specific spare tire kit and model of the BMW 328i. Always refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
Maintenance and Care of Spare Tire
Regular Checks
To ensure the spare tire is ready to use when needed, it is important to perform regular checks. The following checks should be done at least once a month:
- Check the tire pressure: The spare tire should be inflated to the recommended pressure, which is usually listed on the tire itself or in the owner’s manual. If the pressure is low, inflate it to the recommended level.
- Check the tire tread: The tread on the spare tire should be in good condition. If the tread is worn down, it may not be safe to use the tire. A tire with less than 2/32 inch of tread depth should be replaced.
- Check for damage: Look for any signs of damage to the spare tire, such as cuts, punctures, or bulges. If there is any damage, the tire should be replaced.
By performing these regular checks, the spare tire will be ready to use when needed.
Proper Storage
Proper storage of the spare tire is also important to ensure it is in good condition when needed. The following tips should be followed:
- Store the spare tire in a cool, dry place: Exposure to sunlight and heat can cause the rubber to deteriorate, so it is best to store the tire in a cool, dry place, such as a garage or basement.
- Store the tire upright: Storing the tire upright will help prevent flat spots from forming.
- Keep the tire covered: Covering the tire will help protect it from dust and other debris.
By following these storage tips, the spare tire will be in good condition when needed.
Where to Purchase a BMW 328i Spare Tire?
If you own a BMW 328i, having a spare tire is essential for unexpected flat tire situations. In this section, we will discuss where you can purchase a BMW 328i spare tire.
Online Options
There are several online options available for purchasing a BMW 328i spare tire. Here are a few options:
- Modern Spare: Modern Spare offers compact, lightweight alloy spare tire kits that are engineered specifically for the BMW 3-Series. Their kits are high-quality and come with a guarantee. They offer shipping on or before July 27, 2023.
- Bimmerzone: Bimmerzone offers emergency spare tires for the BMW 3-Series. Their products are designed to fit specific BMW models and come with a warranty. They offer spare tires for various BMW models, including the BMW 328i.
- eBay: eBay offers a wide range of spare tire options for the BMW 328i. You can find both new and used spare tires at various price points.
Physical Stores
If you prefer to purchase a spare tire in person, you can visit your local auto parts store or BMW dealership. Here are a few options:
- AutoZone: AutoZone offers a variety of spare tire options for the BMW 328i. You can find both compact and full-size spare tires at their stores.
- BMW Dealership: You can purchase a spare tire directly from your local BMW dealership. They can help you find the right spare tire for your specific BMW 328i model.
Overall, there are several options available for purchasing a BMW 328i spare tire. Whether you prefer to shop online or in person, there are plenty of high-quality spare tire options to choose from.
Conclusion
In summary, the BMW 328i does not come with a spare tire. Instead, BMW has opted to equip newer models with run-flat tires, which are designed to allow drivers to continue driving for up to 150 miles after a flat tire. While this may be a convenient solution for some drivers, others may prefer the added security of having a spare tire on hand.
For those who do prefer to have a spare tire, there are aftermarket options available, such as the BMW 3 Series E90+ 325/328/330/335 Emergency Spare Tire, which is designed to fit the 2006-2012 BMW 3 Series models. However, it is important to note that adding a spare tire to your BMW may affect fuel efficiency and handling, so it is recommended to consult with a professional before making any modifications to your vehicle.
Overall, whether or not to have a spare tire is a personal preference and depends on individual driving habits and needs. While the BMW 328i may not come with a spare tire, there are options available for those who prefer to have one on hand.
