Run Flat Tyres: Frequent Asked Questions
How Does a Run Flat Tyre Work?In the majority of designs, a Run Flat tyre is able to remain functional with no air pressure thanks to a reinforced sidewall.
Standard tyres are supported and remain usable due to the air pressure within the tyres. Once this is lost, the tyre will fail.
The reinforced sidewall of a Run Flat tyre can support the car, minus the air pressure, temporarily.
Do I Need A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System?Yes. A very important component required to ensure the accurate use of Run flat tyres is a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Due to the fact that a Run Flat tyre can run on zero air pressure, it means that without a TPMS, a motorist may not know they’ve suffered a puncture.
With the TPMS, an alert is flashed up on their console letting them know that they have suffered a puncture and that they will need to replace the tyre as soon as possible.
Can I switch to run flat tyres from standard tyres?Yes, in most cases it is possible to switch from conventional tyres to run flat tyres. However, it is important to ensure that your car is fitted with a compatible tyre pressure monitoring system.
As mentioned above - this is essential in alerting you if your tyre(s) suffers a puncture.
Are Run Flat Tyres Repairable?Generally, no. Once it has suffered a puncture and been driven on, the structure of the tyre will be weakened.
For this reason, it is dangerous to try and estimate how long it further last. It is always better to be safe than sorry with your tyres.
As with all tyres, regardless whether they are Run Flat or standard, it is important to make sure you look after them - and make regular tyre safety checks. To reduced the risk of them failing.
This is also the case for tyre with nails in them. Unfortunately it is not recommended to fix run flat tyres with a nail in it, due to the potential internal damage which may have been caused.
Are run flat tyres worth it?There is no clear cut answer to this question, as deciding whether or not run flat tyres ‘are worth it’ comes down to individual perspective and circumstance.
There are several advantages to running on run flat tyres – these include the significantly reduced risk of losing control of your car after a sudden puncture, more space in your boot due to the fact you will not need a spare wheel, and the fact you can continue to drive in the event of a puncture for up to 50 miles (giving you time to find a mechanic).
The disadvantages of a run flat tyre can include a higher price per tyre on average, come compared to standard tyres. They are also slightly heavier, as a rule of thumb. People who drive on run flat tyres, sometimes remark on the reduced comfort levels, as the rigid structure of a run flat tyre can cause the driver to feel more of the road.
So, for each person trying to decide whether to buy run flat tyres, there are several factors to consider on each side of the argument.
What are the disadvantages of run flats?Some of the disadvantages of a run flat tyre can include a higher price per tyre on average, when compared to standard tyres.
Due to the construction of run flat tyres, they also tend to be slightly heavier, as a rule of thumb.
People who drive on run flat tyres will sometimes that they deliver a reduced comfort level - as the rigid structure of a run flat tyre can lead to a bumpier ride, as well as greater cabin noise.
How long do run flat tyre last?As with all tyres, it is not possible to give a definitive answer on the lifespan of run flat tyres - as a group or category. There are many factors which can affect how quickly a tyre will wear. Such as the type of roads or terrain driven on, the regularity of air pressure maintenance, the overall level of usage, plus much more.
The materials and construction of different models of run flat tyres will also influence how long a run flat tyre will last.
Can I replace BMW run flat tyre with regular?If a vehicle has been developed and fitted with Run Flat as original equipment you should seek some expert advice on whether changing from run flat tyres to standard tyres is advisable. There are a few negative effects of changing tyre types – such as reduced handling performance.
Your suspension will also have been designed to perform alongside the harder riding run flat tyres, so this may need changes to it’s set up to deliver a comfortable ride.
Consult with the manufacturer before making changes of this type.
How long do run flat tyres last after puncture?Most manufacturers will recommend that a run flat tyre, once punctured, should only be driven on for a maximum of 50miles – and should not exceed 50mph when driving.
However, as this may vary depending on the manufacturer and the model of run flat tyre, it is recommended that you check on the specific information given about the run flat tyre you own, or are planning to buy.
What cars use run flat tyres?Although some car manufacturers are more well-known for choosing run flat tyres to be fitted to their vehicles, you will need to check any particular vehicle you have or are interested in – as many manufacturers will fit run flat tyres on one model, but not onto others.
Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Mini are manufacturers that will commonly use run flat tyres on their models. But there are some others – such as certain Volkswagen cars.
If in doubt, check with the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Are run flat tyres noisy?An increase in road noise is a common complaint for those who fit run flat tyres. Given the carcass construction of run flat tyres, and their rigid sidewalls, there is an increase in the level of vibrations. Which in turn can cause cabin noise to increase.
Aware of this issue, manufacturers of run flat tyres are constantly looking to improve the comfort levels of their tyres – including reducing the noise levels. The use of noise dampening technology is becoming more common in the latest generation of run flat tyres.
Do run flat tyres wear faster?Generally, no. Despite their more rigid construction and specific functionality to carry on performing in the event of a puncture, the materials and compound used in run flat tyres does not differ greatly from those of a standard tyre. As such they will wear at around the same rate – and tyre care, including air pressure maintenance is just as important in ensuring the tyres perform to their full potential.