GS350 run flat tire questions

tnale · #1 (**permalink**) 08-11-2007, 11:14 PM

I am interested in purchasing a new of used Lexus 350 but have concerns about the run flat tires. I hear that they do not wear well. If punctured you need a new tire as they are repairable. What brand of RFT seems to be the best and which would be the worst? What are my options if RFT are no longer made in a few years and I need tires?
Tom

LifeTech · #2 (**permalink**) 12-14-2007, 12:19 PM

They can be repaired, but are notorious for poor wear.

RFT's are not commonplace and therefore not many types and models to choose from.

LT

Eddie · #3 (**permalink**) 12-14-2007, 04:48 PM

Browse through tirerack's site for tire reviews.

Runflats are repairable up to a certain point,it's dependant on how many miles were driven on it (and at what speeds) while flat. I don't have the exact numbers on me,I'll try posting them next week.

memaster · #4 (**permalink**) 12-19-2007, 11:20 AM

My GS350 has regular Michellin tires... did not consider the run-flat for the reasons you mentioned... I asume this GS you are interested comes with RFT?

CVGolfer · #5 (**permalink**) 01-14-2008, 02:03 PM

I have a '06 GS 430 that I replaced the Dunlop RFTs at 15,000 miles with 4 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S tires. The old runflats did not hold air due to bead sealing issues so I opted to replace them a little early as they may, and I say may, have had another 5,000 miles in them.

I now have about 4,000 miles on the Michelin's and have really enjoyed the much smoother ride, quieter tread noise, and a bit better handling too.

ctrj · #6 (**permalink**) 01-25-2008, 10:32 PM

I've seen a fair amount of GS300/GS350's at our dealership and I'd say that 99% of them are on runflats. I can only remember one time that a customer asked to change to regular tires (and they were Michelin's like the other posters). Lexus only sells the GS350 with the Dunlop SP5000 runflats and we have not had any problems with them. If you're looking to purchase a GS350 and not have runflats, I would ask the dealer to change the tires before you take delivery.