Porous Alloy!
Porous Alloy!
Author
Discussion

Jazzer

Original Poster:

1,758 posts

230 months

Saturday 4th August 2012
quotequote all
Just wondering how unusual this is......

E60 M5......noticed near side rear tyre was losing 3 psi a day, but no obvious puncture or problem with the valve.

It turns out the alloy had become porous where one of the spokes joins the main body of the wheel....a clear manufacturing defect at the seam.

BMW are normally rather decent when it comes to goodwill, but said no on this occasion (ostensibly because the car, while in great nick, is now six, but more likely because they said yes twice to replace headlamp units in the last 6 months!!)

Disappointing, as the alloy isn't cracked or kerbed or damaged in any way.

To make matters worse, I couldn't source a new wheel in any of the usual independent joints, so had to order a new one from Gemany.....£550......ouch!!

Is this common or have I just been unlucky?

Jazzer

ecain63

10,646 posts

201 months

Saturday 4th August 2012
quotequote all
Unlucky I think mate, but surely age should make no odds if its looked after. Alloys shouldn't just turnto cheese.

Jazzer

Original Poster:

1,758 posts

230 months

Tuesday 7th August 2012
quotequote all
Good news......
I've just had a call from BMW customer services.
They have agreed to replace the wheel as a goodwill gesture, acknowledging my point of view.
I'm very pleased with this outcome, which shows BMW in an excellent light.
Thank you to the young lady who called.