Hello all, i'm new to RLs'. Can someone please explain what Pax means? I keep reading about it being a problem when changing wheels but don't know what it is. Thanks for the help.

 

Pax is a Michelin run-flat wheel and tire system that is an option on '06 and up RL's. It's part of the "Technology Package" that was offered in 06 and re-branded as "CMBS/Pax" in 07.

So, unless your car's somehow been shod with run-flat tires without your knowledge, I don't think you need to worry about it.

 

As noted above, PAX is Michelin proprietary run flat system, different from all other run flat systems out there. While Michelin has licensed the technolgy to several large tire manufacturers, including Goodyear, none have chosen to jump into the fray. It is another advance in tire technology, but whether the rest of the industry will evolve to a PAX solution remains to be seen. Aside from the Honda Odyssey and Nissan Quest (and only the very top of the line models), the Acura RL, the only other cars that use PAX in the US are the Rolls Royce Phantom and the Bugatti Veyron.

"Changing wheels" not sure what you mean. If you mean changing wheels and tires as a combination package, such as moving to 19" wheels, no problem. Just change them. Since PAX equipped cars have no spares, it would also be prudent to buy a spare, the associated tools, and trunk storage points, about $500.

If you want to use existing PAX tires with different wheels, this is a problem. You cannot. PAX tires are meant to fit on PAX only asymmetric wheels, and PAX tires are not interchangeable with aftermarket wheels, just as aftermarket tires are not compatible with PAX wheels.

Fixing a flat, I don't think that is a real problem either, but neither are there many stories, much less statistics, on real world experience. Since the PAX is a proprietary system, only certain dealers with specialized equipment and training can demount and mount the PAX, and finding these dealers can be problematic, although Michelin has gone out of its way to make it easier. Call an 800 number, and they will set up the rest of the logistics. They even give you a two year/50% treadlife road hazard warranty.

If you have PAX, and decide to not replace them with PAX at the end of their tire's treadlife, you will have to buy new wheels and tires. It would also be prudent to buy a spare, the associated tools, and trunk storage points.

The cost of replacing PAX tires will be high, you will likely have to pay MSRP, and each PAX tire is likely to be 10-20% higher in price than equivalent new standard tire.

There is an unconfirmed report that Acura will start arranging for 4 tire swaps at $1300 as PAX tires start to reach the end of life.