Bead locks also prevent instant loss of air when a rim is bent at high speed, potentially saving lives. Bead lock type rims make it extremely tough to break the bead with a side mounted shovel. Damage to the inside and outside of rim and tire during bead breaking is almost certain. Run-flat tires will be standard, on some 1997 models, eliminating the spare and effectively increasing trunk storage space. Sidewalls are four to six times thicker than conventional sidewall tires.
Bead breaking and lubricating the tire before removal is time consuming.
Demounting and mounting are extremely laborious. Use of an inflation cage is mandatory. Detailed professional procedures for service and diagnosis are also mandatory. The center post tire changer was designed years ago for servicing of steel rims. It secures the rim by use of a center cone through the pilot hole.