Dented alloys

[Shotball]

Hi there, long time lurker, first time poster.

I have just recently purchased a mini cooper 2002 model last month and due to work have currently not had much oppotunity to drive the car.

However, I went out to the car today and both rear tyres (run flats) are flat. I went to a tyre centre and they showed me that the rims are slightly dented on both the inner rims, and therefore the air is escaping at these points (I could see this by the use of soapy water). They have advised me that I will need new alloys and tyres.

My question is, is the air escaping due to the tyres having been driven flat for about 30 miles and therefore they tyre walls are damaged, or indeed do I need new alloys and tyes?.

I am keen to finf the answer as the alloys are 17" and together with tyres will be quite expensive. Having looked at the mini dealers prices it may be a cheaper option to get a new set of alloys rather than 2 replacements.

Any advise will be gratefully received.

[DanGT]

There would have to be quite a big dent in the wheel for it to let the air out. I would get them checked by some one else just be shore, also where they damiged when you got the car? Is it posible to go back to the people you got the car from?

[fergy]

Not quiite teh same but years ago I had leaking alloys on a Citroen AX...turned out the alloys were corroding on the inside and they had to sand down the rim to get it to seal.

Lots of 2nd hand alloys etc for sale on the various minin forums...maybe worth seeing if f you can get a better set there ?

[Shotball]

Thanks for your response guys.

Bit the bullet and got two new rear fun on flat tyres, although it was clearly visible that one of the alloys has a dent in it. They cleaned the rims and put plenty of gunk in to seal it so I will see how they go. If they go flat again I think I will get an new wheel and possibly look at getting normal tyres.