How to fit a space saving spare under regular trunk

XAlp · 11-03-2020, 01:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ColoM40i

Just my opinion.....

I can understand one retrofitting the cargo sub floor to accommodate a spare if the X3 did not come with one and having to pay $550.00 for the spare and misc. items. But, to order the vehicle without one and then putting out $550.00, your time & efforts only to be carrying a jammed in half flat spare tire does not make sense. And then you have to carry a tire pump.

Adding the spare saver tire option at the time of build only costs $150.00 and you have a fully inflated spare that is properly secured.

I just did the measuring in my new M40i. The floor is elevated a minimal 3" which equals a loss of just 2.39 (total) cu. ft. How often does anyone really pack their cargo area to take up the entire side to side, top to bottom cargo capacity?

Hi. Am I right that a normal trunk volume is 28.7 cu ft so this would be an 8% reduction? I'm asking as I'm thinking of moving from an F31 and had hoped for the bigger trunk (again my maths X3 550litres v f31 495litres would have the F31 10% smaller than X3, right?). So still a very marginal gain over F31 even with the reudced volume for a space saver? And a probably stupid question - can you replace the raised cover for a space saver with the normal floor to gain extra space?
Thanks

popopine · 11-03-2020, 03:45 PM

Yeah, the problem is not total cubic feet of space lost with the factory spare option. It's where the space is coming from -- the floor is lifted. I would imagine trying sliding in a heavy box, or 2 bags bag of groceries with your hands full would be a PITA. It hits a 3 inch wall. You'd think BMWs crack German engineers could figure this out.

In the meantime, a little elbow grease and a few $, and you can have the best of both worlds. No regrets here
-- OP

XAlp · 11-03-2020, 05:45 PM

Thanks. I spotted a post that says a dealer can swap between the two with the correct parts. I see the e petrol hybrid X£ is listed at 450litres (and has a similar raised floor) - so that's actually less than my F31. We'll see...

cadman50 · 11-04-2020, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by popopine

Yeah, the problem is not total cubic feet of space lost with the factory spare option. It's where the space is coming from -- the floor is lifted. I would imagine trying sliding in a heavy box, or 2 bags bag of groceries with your hands full would be a PITA. It hits a 3 inch wall. You'd think BMWs crack German engineers could figure this out.

In the meantime, a little elbow grease and a few $, and you can have the best of both worlds. No regrets here
-- OP

When you put the rear seats down, is there also a 2-3 inches down from the back of the raised cargo deck down to the rear seats?

wdeerfield · 12-12-2020, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cadman50

Quote:

Originally Posted by popopine

Yeah, the problem is not total cubic feet of space lost with the factory spare option. It's where the space is coming from -- the floor is lifted. I would imagine trying sliding in a heavy box, or 2 bags bag of groceries with your hands full would be a PITA. It hits a 3 inch wall. You'd think BMWs crack German engineers could figure this out.

In the meantime, a little elbow grease and a few $, and you can have the best of both worlds. No regrets here
-- OP

When you put the rear seats down, is there also a 2-3 inches down from the back of the raised cargo deck down to the rear seats?

Not 2-3" but the seats do not fold flat with the floor now. I have the raised floor and while it seems annoying at first as others have pointed out you never really see it. I get the point about dogs though. That could make it more difficult for them. 🤷*♂️. Cutting a floor and deflating a spare seems like a really hacky thing to do.

GS - X3 · 12-13-2020, 08:53 AM

I think the OP did an excellent job of offering a solution to those wishing to replace their RFT’s while still having a viable option for a spare tire, and without raising floor height. I too plan on replacing my RFT’s when they wear out, but given my motorcycling background, I’m probably much more comfortable than most with just carrying a tire repair kit, mini compressor, small bottle jack, and a can of slime. Back in the dark ages of tube type tires, flat tires seemed to be a fairly regular occurrence. These days, not so much...

rob175 · 12-14-2020, 09:21 AM

The factory "lifted floor" eliminates the tracks and adjustable loops on the left and right sides of the cargo area.....I often use those adjustable loops to secure stuff......so for me, the "lifted floor" for the spare tire is a deal breaker.

MarcAmblard · 02-25-2021, 05:13 PM

I just received my new X3 with the spare tire option. This vehicle is amazing but what desappointment about the raised floor in the trunk! I'm mad. Very mad! If I have known that, I would never have chosen this option. It's a shame. I thought It would not difficult to return to regular configuration (without spare tire) but, reading this forum, I understand that it's difficult and expensive. If someone wants to swicth.... I agree.

x3Prancer · 03-03-2021, 07:34 AM

I will be doing this mod. Is cutting the sub floor near the 2nd row seats necessary? It looks like the top of the tire will not go beyond the base of the sub floor's storage area anyway:

75fusca · 03-07-2021, 03:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by x3Prancer

I will be doing this mod. Is cutting the sub floor near the 2nd row seats necessary? It looks like the top of the tire will not go beyond the base of the sub floor's storage area anyway:

What material is the black "block" below de fiber floor near the rear seats?
Was it "carved" by you guys to accommodate the tire?

Thanks!

VBdiver · 03-13-2021, 04:26 PM

I like the concept and post engineering . How is the tire secured ? it looks like it could become a projectile if enough force was applied ie: rear ending another vehicle etc ..

Alias1431 · 03-13-2021, 07:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by VBdiver

I like the concept and post engineering . How is the tire secured ? it looks like it could become a projectile if enough force was applied ie: rear ending another vehicle etc ..

If you hit something with enough force to have the tire bust out of its well and through the panel it sits under and still hurt you... You're probably dead anyway.

WUR · 03-14-2021, 01:39 PM

I'm no expert but there must be a reason that all manufacturers spend money to secure spares. In a violent collision where the front end pitches down and the rear up, front crumple zones and air bags may save you but a spare tire loose in the passenger cabin would not likely end well for someone. Photos show tie-down method with the OEM spare.

x3Prancer · 03-15-2021, 09:12 AM

Without the raised floor, there are cargo rails on either side, which I was planning on using to tie down the panel to keep the spare tire from flying out

x3Prancer · 04-10-2021, 02:28 PM

I finished putting the spare tire into the regular trunk today. I added a
tire plug kit, soap water spray bottle, and air pump and tools needed for
repairing a tire instead of using the spare. Additionally, I used vinyl coated
stainless steel security cables (2) and snap hooks to secure the tire to
the base using the battery's frame. I included link to the cables/hooks below.
I really like this solution, I now have Michelin Pilot A/S 4's, and options in
case I ever get a flat. I would have to say, even if I kept the runflats, I may
have done this anyway, because what if i get a flat tire in the middle of
nowhere far from anything? I dont understand what makes car manufacturers
these days stop putting spare tires in. I have 2 more cables and hooks that
I can use to secure the floor using the cargo rails on either side, but
haven't done that yet, dont think I need to.

Links for cables/hooks:

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Safety+Ca...ref=nb_sb_noss

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=sprookber...ref=nb_sb_noss

MADBMWX5MC · 04-12-2021, 11:30 AM

^Did you have to let some air out of the spare to fit in that space you carved out?

rob175 · 04-12-2021, 12:44 PM

Really..."much to do about nothing" (IMHO). Having a "flat" with R/F's is completely different from experiencing a "blow-out" where the tire releases from the rim. A "flat" on a R/F can easily be driven for many many miles, at a reduced speed safely. Again, IMHO it's much more dangerous to change a flat tire on the side of the road. Between raising the car safely, securing it from rolling, loosening the often very tight lug nuts, avoid being hit by traffic and lack of experience, my best advice is drive to the nearest location for help. Even if you trash the tire and wheel in the process it's still much safer.

(additionally I would never "butcher" the interior of any car....IF you MUST carry a spare, on the road, then just carry it in the rear and put your suitcases around it...LOL)

sbt007 · 04-12-2021, 01:08 PM

Yes, but the point is many people do not want the Run Flats. And they also don't want the raised floor. Personally, I am ok the RFs right now but it is still interesting to see this solution. x3Prancer 's pics look neater than I expected. I wonder if there is a way to buy that insert separately so that we can put back the "unbutchered" insert for a resale etc. :-)

x3Prancer · 04-13-2021, 12:38 PM

I had to let out alot of air, and wiggle the spare tire down to allow the floor
to close unimpeded. Once the tire was in, I put in a little air back in,
but not much.

The main reason I did this was I did not like the runflat tire.
If you like your runflats, then you might not want to do this, maybe,
unless you are driving thru the Desert LOL

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4zfI-WyOfQ

gohawks23 · 04-13-2021, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rob175

Really..."much to do about nothing" (IMHO). Having a "flat" with R/F's is completely different from experiencing a "blow-out" where the tire releases from the rim. A "flat" on a R/F can easily be driven for many many miles, at a reduced speed safely. Again, IMHO it's much more dangerous to change a flat tire on the side of the road. Between raising the car safely, securing it from rolling, loosening the often very tight lug nuts, avoid being hit by traffic and lack of experience, my best advice is drive to the nearest location for help. Even if you trash the tire and wheel in the process it's still much safer.

(additionally I would never "butcher" the interior of any car....IF you MUST carry a spare, on the road, then just carry it in the rear and put your suitcases around it...LOL)

Eh, changed plenty of tires easily/safely, just use some common sense and pull into a safe location off the road. Since this a highway trip car for us I got the spare for 'free' with my selection of 19" non run flats...the biggest benefit in my mind is if you are on road away from home and get a flat maybe you can limp somewhere off freeway but the chances of a tire shop having a run flat replacement in stock is not very good...so you are stuck until they get one in.

As for the 'loss' of cargo area I find it's nice to have the little rise over the bumper as keeps anything from scraping it when putting stuff in...and the height makes it easier for me to place stuff in. To each their own tho!

jacko15 · 04-20-2021, 07:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wdeerfield

I have the raised floor...

Is your battery under the spare tire?

Drexel_Lake · 06-13-2021, 01:56 PM

Has anybody verified this spare will clear the M performance calipers on the M40i? Other kits I looked at do not. Might just go with better run flats.

11-03-2020, 03:45 PM	#46
popopine Private First Class 76 Rep 128 Posts Drives: Blk x3 m40eye Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: North East US iTrader: (0)	Yeah, the problem is not total cubic feet of space lost with the factory spare option. It's where the space is coming from -- the floor is lifted. I would imagine trying sliding in a heavy box, or 2 bags bag of groceries with your hands full would be a PITA. It hits a 3 inch wall. You'd think BMWs crack German engineers could figure this out. In the meantime, a little elbow grease and a few $, and you can have the best of both worlds. No regrets here -- OP Attached Images Last edited by popopine; 11-03-2020 at 03:50 PM..
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11-03-2020, 05:45 PM	#47
XAlp Lieutenant Colonel 728 Rep 1,720 Posts Drives: Volvo XC90 T6 Join Date: Jan 2015 Location: Cambridge iTrader: (0)	Thanks. I spotted a post that says a dealer can swap between the two with the correct parts. I see the e petrol hybrid X£ is listed at 450litres (and has a similar raised floor) - so that's actually less than my F31. We'll see... __________________ Previously: 2007 Alpina D3 Saloon, 2010 Alpina D3 Biturbo Saloon, 2014 335d XDrive M Sport+ Touring, 2003 Honda S2000. Now: 2018 Volvo XC90 T6 Inscription Pro, 2013 Mazda MX5 2.0 BBR Super 200.
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12-13-2020, 08:53 AM	#50
GS - X3 Best of Both Worlds 90 Rep 93 Posts Drives: ‘20 X3 M40i - ‘19 R1250GSA Join Date: Nov 2020 Location: N. WI - S. AZ iTrader: (0)	I think the OP did an excellent job of offering a solution to those wishing to replace their RFT’s while still having a viable option for a spare tire, and without raising floor height. I too plan on replacing my RFT’s when they wear out, but given my motorcycling background, I’m probably much more comfortable than most with just carrying a tire repair kit, mini compressor, small bottle jack, and a can of slime. Back in the dark ages of tube type tires, flat tires seemed to be a fairly regular occurrence. These days, not so much...
	Appreciate 2 wdeerfield2928.00 sunay27351.00 Quote

12-14-2020, 09:21 AM	#51
rob175 Major 993 Rep 1,419 Posts Drives: BMW X3 xiDrive30 Join Date: Feb 2020 Location: Illinois iTrader: (0)	The factory "lifted floor" eliminates the tracks and adjustable loops on the left and right sides of the cargo area.....I often use those adjustable loops to secure stuff......so for me, the "lifted floor" for the spare tire is a deal breaker.
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02-25-2021, 05:13 PM	#52
MarcAmblard Registered 2 Rep 2 Posts Drives: BMW X3 2021 Join Date: Feb 2021 Location: FORT LAUDERDALE iTrader: (0)	I just received my new X3 with the spare tire option. This vehicle is amazing but what desappointment about the raised floor in the trunk! I'm mad. Very mad! If I have known that, I would never have chosen this option. It's a shame. I thought It would not difficult to return to regular configuration (without spare tire) but, reading this forum, I understand that it's difficult and expensive. If someone wants to swicth.... I agree.
	Appreciate 1 JP.BSB9.00 Quote

03-03-2021, 07:34 AM	#53
x3Prancer Private 102 Rep 94 Posts Drives: 2019 X3 sDrive30i Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: SouthEast USA iTrader: (0)	I will be doing this mod. Is cutting the sub floor near the 2nd row seats necessary? It looks like the top of the tire will not go beyond the base of the sub floor's storage area anyway: Attached Images
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03-13-2021, 04:26 PM	#55
VBdiver Enlisted Member 19 Rep 43 Posts Drives: 2018 X3 Xdrive, 1999 Tacoma4x4 Join Date: Apr 2018 Location: Virginia Beach iTrader: (0)	I like the concept and post engineering . How is the tire secured ? it looks like it could become a projectile if enough force was applied ie: rear ending another vehicle etc ..
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03-14-2021, 01:39 PM	#57
WUR Private 24 Rep 50 Posts Drives: 2020 M40i Join Date: Jun 2020 Location: MD iTrader: (0)	I'm no expert but there must be a reason that all manufacturers spend money to secure spares. In a violent collision where the front end pitches down and the rear up, front crumple zones and air bags may save you but a spare tire loose in the passenger cabin would not likely end well for someone. Photos show tie-down method with the OEM spare. Attached Images
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03-15-2021, 09:12 AM	#58
x3Prancer Private 102 Rep 94 Posts Drives: 2019 X3 sDrive30i Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: SouthEast USA iTrader: (0)	Without the raised floor, there are cargo rails on either side, which I was planning on using to tie down the panel to keep the spare tire from flying out
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04-10-2021, 02:28 PM	#59
x3Prancer Private 102 Rep 94 Posts Drives: 2019 X3 sDrive30i Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: SouthEast USA iTrader: (0)	I finished putting the spare tire into the regular trunk today. I added a tire plug kit, soap water spray bottle, and air pump and tools needed for repairing a tire instead of using the spare. Additionally, I used vinyl coated stainless steel security cables (2) and snap hooks to secure the tire to the base using the battery's frame. I included link to the cables/hooks below. I really like this solution, I now have Michelin Pilot A/S 4's, and options in case I ever get a flat. I would have to say, even if I kept the runflats, I may have done this anyway, because what if i get a flat tire in the middle of nowhere far from anything? I dont understand what makes car manufacturers these days stop putting spare tires in. I have 2 more cables and hooks that I can use to secure the floor using the cargo rails on either side, but haven't done that yet, dont think I need to. Links for cables/hooks: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Safety+Ca...ref=nb_sb_noss https://www.amazon.com/s?k=sprookber...ref=nb_sb_noss Attached Images
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04-12-2021, 11:30 AM	#60
MADBMWX5MC Colonel 1742 Rep 2,434 Posts Drives: 2023 BMW X5MC Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: Northern Virginia iTrader: (1)	^Did you have to let some air out of the spare to fit in that space you carved out? __________________ 2023 BMW X5MC Tanzanite Blue II Metallic 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Black 2006 Ford Mustang GT Convertible (show car)
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04-12-2021, 12:44 PM	#61
rob175 Major 993 Rep 1,419 Posts Drives: BMW X3 xiDrive30 Join Date: Feb 2020 Location: Illinois iTrader: (0)	Really..."much to do about nothing" (IMHO). Having a "flat" with R/F's is completely different from experiencing a "blow-out" where the tire releases from the rim. A "flat" on a R/F can easily be driven for many many miles, at a reduced speed safely. Again, IMHO it's much more dangerous to change a flat tire on the side of the road. Between raising the car safely, securing it from rolling, loosening the often very tight lug nuts, avoid being hit by traffic and lack of experience, my best advice is drive to the nearest location for help. Even if you trash the tire and wheel in the process it's still much safer. (additionally I would never "butcher" the interior of any car....IF you MUST carry a spare, on the road, then just carry it in the rear and put your suitcases around it...LOL)
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04-12-2021, 01:08 PM	#62
sbt007 Major 705 Rep 1,148 Posts Drives: 2021 X3 M40i Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: CA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2021 BMW X3 M40i [10.00]	Yes, but the point is many people do not want the Run Flats. And they also don't want the raised floor. Personally, I am ok the RFs right now but it is still interesting to see this solution. x3Prancer 's pics look neater than I expected. I wonder if there is a way to buy that insert separately so that we can put back the "unbutchered" insert for a resale etc. :-)
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04-13-2021, 12:38 PM	#63
x3Prancer Private 102 Rep 94 Posts Drives: 2019 X3 sDrive30i Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: SouthEast USA iTrader: (0)	I had to let out alot of air, and wiggle the spare tire down to allow the floor to close unimpeded. Once the tire was in, I put in a little air back in, but not much. The main reason I did this was I did not like the runflat tire. If you like your runflats, then you might not want to do this, maybe, unless you are driving thru the Desert LOL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4zfI-WyOfQ
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06-13-2021, 01:56 PM	#66
Drexel_Lake Private 28 Rep 92 Posts Drives: BMW X3 M40i 330cic Join Date: May 2021 Location: South Carolina USA iTrader: (0) Garage List 2020 BMW X3 M40i [10.00] 2005 BMW 330ci [5.00]	Has anybody verified this spare will clear the M performance calipers on the M40i? Other kits I looked at do not. Might just go with better run flats. __________________ 2020 X3 M40i Blue 2005 Supercharged 330ci Silver/Black vert.
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