New Lexus 450+ and Run Flat Tyres

[pma16251]

I have just had my second service on my Lexus 450+. Unfortunately, I was advised that there is tyre wear at the edge, possibly due to a tracking issues, I should replace one tyre immediately. My car is fitted with Bridgestone run flat 235/50R20 tyres. On visiting two tyre dealerships I was advised to replace both front tyres, only to find that there is no stock available currently of the OEM tyres, Bridgestone, and no alternative available off the shelf. Needless to say I am shocked to be in this situation and have told Lexus as much. Anyone who has a recent Hybrid or plug in Hybrid Lexus fited with run flats should be aware of the serious of this situation.

[rayaans]

I don't think the RX comes with a tyre this size. 

There are many tyres available in that size but not runflat.

I'd be tempted to change all 4 to normal tyres

[Ken R]

I assume it's the NX450h that you are driving? The tyre supply situation is an ongoing issue and we'll documented in the LOC. I had a NX450h+ and was sceptical with regard to Run Flats but having then had a puncture at speed on the motorway I began to appreciate the benefits. If I could have specified RFT's on my RX450h+ I would have.

I didn't have a supply issue regarding a replacement tyre as my Lexus dealer had a Bridgestone in stock and the car was back on the road and fully functional within an hour of the puncture incident.

[Tom,]

Similar experience as Ken when I burst a tyre on a pot hole. No problem getting a fast non-RFT replacement. £312 though!!

[Ken R]

My replacement Bridgestone RFT was£364!☹️

[Tom,]

Very expensive Ken, but when I come to renew and considering the state of the roads in this neck of the woods, I reckon the extra 50 quid for an RFT will be worth the peace of mind that I can get home. Having said that, on the two occasions I have called out the AA, free of charge, they have been extremely fast in responding.

[FredD]

I think you should check your insurance policy if you want to switch run flat tyres to regular tyres. I had a BMW 5 series with run flat tyres a while back and had to change 4 run flat tyres in a year because of road work across a large part of central London. I thought of switching to regular tyres but this was prohibited by BMW and therefore my insurance policy

[Bootcamper]

I have just paid the same as Ken R - £356 for a new Bridgestone RFT.  My local Lexus dealer had six tyres in stock whereas no other supplier had any.  I consider myself a little unfortunate as I only took delivery of my NX in June and had done only 1500 miles before picking up a nail causing a puncture!