Any luck w/getting dealer to swap wheels for you, at time of ordering??

[NeedMiniInfo]

I wish I could order a different set of wheels, when I finalize my Cooper order.
See some I like in the aftermarket section of the MiniUSA.com website.
I wasn't aware that Step 5 is all aftemarket, but I guess it is.

Anyway, my dealer said we must get the regular 15" or 16" runflat options (2 choices) for Coopers. And, then, buy another whole set of wheels/tires, if wanting to change.
My hubby is NOT keen on this, esp. since we have no real need for 2 sets of tires/wheels, being in a mild climate. Seems pretty against the idea of this, altho' might be persuaded if I go for the 'no cost' 15" ones, I suppose. (altho' still sees it as wasteful to have 2 sets like this!)

Was anybody able to get their dealer to apply some sort of credit towards new wheels/tires...or able to do a trade-in kind of thing once the wheels came?

Also, any clue how much installation runs for a set of wheels like this?
I'm confused by the prices listed in this section. I realize they don't include installation, but do they also not include tires? (only the wheels)
And, if they don't...then, if I'd like some non runflat 16" tires to go w/some rims I see...I wonder how much they generally run? (in US)
Thanks in advance if you could advise me. Appreciate it!

[ScottyB]

I had the same dilemma when I ordered my S.

I wanted R90s, but was unable to order the car with them. So I had to buy the car as is, with a set of 16" X-lites plus runflat tyres, then buy the uber-expensive 17" R90s with runflats, fit them when the car arrived, and sell the 16" X-lites.

I think its ridiculous that an option they provide in their accessories catalogue cant be fitted on the car when you order, but I was told many reasons at the time, so that was it I guess

Pretty sure its the same everywhere else in the world too...


EDIT: to add, my dealer wouldnt offer any credit, or change-over, and wouldnt even buy the 16"s back of me. I did however find a dealer in Sydney who both offered a good deal on buy-back, and also an excellent deal on the R90s themselves. So I ended up buying through them.

[MINIAC]

Quote: Originally Posted by NeedMiniInfo

I'm confused by the prices listed in this section. I realize they don't include installation, but do they also not include tires? (only the wheels)
And, if they don't...then, if I'd like some non runflat 16" tires to go w/some rims I see.

The prices shown for the Accessory wheels on the MINIUSA site are for wheels only. Tires, mounting and balancing are extra. Most dealers will probably only fit run-flat tires on accessory wheels.

If you want a MINI accessory wheel with conventional tires:

• Order your MINI with 15" R81 (7-hole) wheels
• Order the accessory wheels of your choice
• Determine which conventional tires you want:
  • The FAQ on replacement tires will give an idea of tire choices
  • The Tire Rack or 1010tires will give you an idea on pricing
• Have a reputable tire shop mount and balance you wheels and tires and swap wheel sets
• Sell the 15" R81 wheels (popular for winter or autocross use) and tires [latest eBay sale for wheels]

You may be able to find a dealer in your area willing to do something like the dealer ScottyB found. It's difficult to provide info about such a dealer near you because you haven't completed your profile to let everyone know where you're located

[justbob]

I have to admit, we bought off the lot and took the wheels we got!

[NeedMiniInfo]

Appeciate the assistance. :-)
At least I know our dealership is not being particularly 'difficult'

Bummed as the choices for reg Coopers in the U.S. are pretty limited!
And, believe me, if I could find a car on any lot, I'd take it w/out reservations about the wheels! ;-) (need a auto Cooper, so that limits me quite a bit...right now only finding convertibles on lots)