Where to find a compact spare tire for our '08 MINI?

[SteveJ]

The run-flats on the Clubman are dead! At least 2 of them are.

Just for giggles I had the dealer give us a quote for replacing 2 tires. About $760. For 2 tires.

On to the Tire Rack to see what real tires are going for. Anywhere from $98 to $200+ for all out rubber. Nice, normal prices.

So, we WILL be changing over to real tires and not ones that are desingnd to go flat. (Sort of like a ship that's designed to sink.)

Now I will want a space-saver spare to put in the boot where the factory made a space for it, but do not include it in the US market. So far, the only one I have been able to find is from MiniMania. They are nice people , and I wouldn't mind buying from them, but $299.99 for a donut!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! There HAS to be another source.

[TJF]

Do the new new MINI's still use a 4x100 bolt pattern?

Get one from a civic (not the latest ones they have 5 lug wheels) or a miata in a junkyard - not sure what the circumference difference is though - check on that.

[JackF]

My wifes car is an '04 MCS with 58,000 mi. Our biggest complaint with the car is the run flats which I replaced with Avon M550's, and the subsequent lack of a spare. I have liked the Avons. We have had consistent soft tires. If we keep the car I'm going to replace the factory wheels. I will never buy another car with run flat tires and no spare.

[napa02]

Not sure of the bolt pattern on the mini, but if you know the bolt pattern and what other cars may use it, you find craploads of spacesaver spares at your local wrecking yard...

[SRC60]

If you have a second generation (or whatever they designate the newer Mini) 'S' model (Turbo one) it has 14 mm lugs. A friend of mine has one and had no luck finding a suitable spare so he ended up buying one from the dealer.

[cj]

I would check with the local Mini dealer. I also have a bud at another local Mini dealer still if you'd like me to drop him a line.

I can source the spare tire itself for you and mount it.

BTW, I'll also match ALL online pricing.

[SteveJ]

Thanks Cris!

BTW- you are at the Newark store, right?

[cj]

Yes, I'll be back in on Wednesday. Drop me a line and I'll check.

Cris