More cracked wheels

[jpwolfe31]

Just took my 2009 Z4 into the dealership to get its two rear wheels repaired due to cracking. Yes 19 inch style 296. They refused to repair them under warranty due to the fact that they were bent (out of round). Of course, this was not unexpected. Quoted cost to repair was $1524. I am replacing them all with after market 18 inch wheels and tires. I believe that these 296 wheels are defective for their intended use and that BMW is not honoring its warranty obligations. For those that have had cracked wheels and want to do something about it, I suggest reporting the problem to the following law firm, the FTC and the BBB. Links below.

http://www.kellergrover.com/bmw-crac...estigation.htm

https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.go...d.aspx?Lang=en

https://www.auto.bbb.org/lemon-law-complaint-form/

It could be that it is all for naught, but you never know. If no one complains, nothing will happen. It takes 15 minutes for all three. I would love to see BMW be forced to step up on this issue.

[Baremeg55]

Sorry to hear you have this problem. Have you considered doing a search on this forum, and determine how many people have experienced this same issue with the 296 wheels. I'm sure the lawyer would love to have the info, but perhaps a letter to BMW NA, with copies attached of all the reported issues might, I said might, assist you in getting some compensation from BMW? Good luck!

[bmw-nj]

did you have the bmw wheel and tire insurance?

[jpwolfe31]

I did not have wheel and tire insurance. However, given the failure rate of these wheels, they clearly were not designed for the task and should be replaced with something sturdier.

[oldkingdom]

Originally Posted by jpwolfe31

I did not have wheel and tire insurance. However, given the failure rate of these wheels, they clearly were not designed for the task and should be replaced with something sturdier.

Certainly agree with this. I've heard and read about more problems than not with the 296's. Has anyone started class action paperwork yet? I'm sure there are enough victims so far.

I mean, it's bad enough that they are faulty by design but the fact that they're also a $1000 premium upgrade that basically just qualifies you to have the luxury of re-buying them again at a later date is bullshit. It would be bad enough if they replaced them under warrantee, but the fact that they're not covered when they're CLEARLY a problem is really bad form.

[bmw-nj]

yeah I agree with you guys. I'm glad I decided to do the wheel and tire insurance and I bought it for the rft which are awful. 3,000 miles and I already had one bubble on me.

[stockae92]

rough road? i wonder whats the stress that causes the rim to crack?

[Drew@Sonic MS]

Should be from the stiff sidewalls on the RFT they use...