The Ultimate Guide to Run-Flat Tires: Advantages, Disadvantages, and More

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Flat tires are a frequent problem for drivers everywhere. Whether you are on your way to work or going on a road trip, a flat tire can quickly ruin your plans and turn a smooth ride into a difficult situation. However, thanks to improvements in car technology, there is a solution to reduce the effects of a flat tire: run-flat tires.

Although run-flat tires (RFT) were first introduced in the mid-1980s, they are now more common than ever. Many car manufacturers are making them standard in new vehicles, and more drivers are curious about their benefits and how they affect driving.

This blog explains run flat tire meaning, their pros and cons, how they are different from regular tires, and more. So, let us begin!

What are run flat tires?

Run-flat tires are designed to allow you to drive safely for a short distance, even if the tire gets punctured or goes flat. These tires have strong sidewalls that support the car’s weight, even when there is little or no air inside. This gives you time to reach a repair shop or find a safe spot to change the tire.

Unlike regular tires, run-flat tires are built to stay functional without losing shape right away. This design helps you control your car and keep driving for up to 50 miles at reduced speeds after a flat tire.

However, you cannot drive on them forever. Do not forget to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for how far and how fast you can go on run-flat tires after losing air. 

How do run-flat tires work?

There are 2 main types of run-flat tire systems:

• The self-supporting system
• The support ring system

In most self-supporting run-flat tire systems, the tire features reinforced sidewall construction that will continue supporting the vehicle in the event of air loss.

This design lets the tire keep working even after losing air, up to the speed and distance set by the manufacturer. On the other hand, support ring run-flat tires use a hard rubber ring or similar structure to support the vehicle’s weight when the tire is flat.

What are the advantages of run-flat tires?

Now that you know what is run flat tire and how it works, let us take a look at the benefits of selecting  run-flat tires:

• Safety

Run-flat tires enhance safety by letting you maintain control of your vehicle, even in the event of a flat. This is particularly important during emergencies or when driving in bad weather conditions.

• Space and weight savings

Run-flat tires do not need a spare, so you can save space in your car and reduce its weight. It could help improve fuel efficiency.

• Increased mobility

Run-flat tires let you drive to a repair shop or service station without needing to fix or replace the tire right away.

• Convenience

One of the biggest advantages of run-flat tires is that you do not have to change your tire in dangerous or uncomfortable situations. Simply put, run-flat tires eliminate the need to change a flat tire on the roadside or wait for help. You can keep driving to a safe spot or the nearest service center.

• Peace of mind

Having run-flat tires on your car can give you peace of mind by making you less worried about flat tires and what might happen if they occur.

• Compatibility

Run-flat tires work with most newer cars that have a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) and can also be installed on some older vehicles. 

As people continue to prioritize safety, convenience and compatibility, run-flat tires are becoming more popular. Since they also work well with technologies like TPMS, it is likely that they will become a standard feature in more new cars in the future. 

What are the drawbacks of run-flat tires?

Here are some cons of run-flat tires:

• It costs more than regular tires.
• Harder to notice a puncture without a tire pressure monitoring system.
• Difficult to repair or replace because of their design.
• Less comfortable ride than regular tires.
• Fewer brands make run-flat tires.
• The ride feels rougher because of the stiffer sidewalls.
• Wear out faster due to the stiffer sidewalls.
• Not as many sizes and models are available.
• Can be noisier on some surfaces.

Also Read: Understanding CVTs: Pros, Cons, and What You Need to Know

Final thoughts

Run-flat tires are a great innovation that makes driving safer and more convenient. They allow you to keep driving a flat tire, so you do not have to change it right away on the side of the road.

However, do not forget that run-flat tires can still get damaged. That is why regular maintenance and checking are necessary to keep them working well and lasting longer. If you want more safety, mental peace and convenience, choosing run-flat tires for your car is definitely a good decision.

Also Read: Understanding the Starter Solenoid: Functions, Common Issues, and How to Replace It

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1- Are run-flat tires and tubeless tires the same?

Ans. Run-flat tires and tubeless tires are different. Tubeless tires do not have an inner tube and rely on a tight seal between the tire and wheel to keep air in. Run-flat tires, on the other hand, have strong sidewalls that help them support the vehicle’s weight even if they lose air. This way, they let you drive for a short distance without needing immediate repair. 

Q2- What is the difference between run-flat tires and conventional tires?

Ans. Run-flat tires allow you to keep driving for a short distance, even after a short distance after a puncture, so you do not need to immediately stop and repair or replace the tire. They also eliminate the need for a spare tire, which saves space in your vehicle.

However, they tend to provide a slightly less comfortable ride because of their reinforced sidewalls. On the other hand, conventional tires require a spare tire and will go flat if punctured. It means you must stop to fix them right away. They generally offer a smoother ride because they do not have the stiff sidewalls of run-flat tires. 

Q3- Can run-flat tires be fixed?

Ans. It is usually not a good idea to fix run-flat tires. They are built to only be driven for a short distance after a puncture. Trying to repair them could weaken the tire and make it unsafe.

Q4- Are run-flat tires right for all types of vehicles?

Ans. Run-flat tires work for most cars, light trucks and SUVs. However, not every vehicle is designed for them, so it is important to check your vehicle’s manual or ask a tire expert before switching to run-flat tires.