Is it worth getting run flat Tyres?

The main advantage of run-flat tyres is that you can carry on driving if you get a puncture – assuming the sidewall itself hasn’t been significantly damaged. Because of their strong sidewalls, run-flat tyres are also said to be less prone to blowouts – a rapid and potentially dangerous loss of air from the tyre.

What is the lifespan of run-flat tires?

Both systems typically have the same 30,000- to 40,000-mile life expectancy as regular tires, though run-flats generally cost 25-to 30-percent more than conventional tires, says VandeWater.

Can I put regular tires instead of run flats?

Replacing Run-Flat Tires Yes, you can replace four run-flat tires with four conventional tires as long as they meet your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations. A run-flat tire is designed to keep a vehicle traveling safely and under control for a limited distance, even after a puncture.

Why run flat tires are bad?

Harsher ride: The stiff sidewalls that make a run-flat work also result in a harsher ride. If the vehicle came with run-flat tires from the factory, the automaker usually tunes the suspension to offset the rougher ride. Also, many run-flats cannot be repaired and often need to be replaced in pairs.

Do run flats need special wheels?

Run flats are only fitted to new cars which have a tyre pressure monitor system (TPMS). This senses when there is a puncture in a run flat tyre and produces a warning on your vehicle’s dashboard. For this to be accurate, you need run flat tyres on all wheels.

Are run-flat tires more prone to punctures?

Sidewall punctures and impact damage also affect run-flats like conventional tires. The J.D. Power study found that “customers with vehicles equipped with run-flat tires are nearly twice as likely as those with vehicles equipped with standard tires to have to replace a tire due to a flat or blowout.”

Why are run-flat tires noisy?

In order to be able to keep driving with no air pressure, the sidewalls of run flats are very stiff – so the tire doesn’t deform as much with no air inside. But this has the effect of transmitting a lot more vibration, noise and harshness to the cabin.

Are run flat tires more expensive than regular tires?

On average, run flat tires are about one third more expensive than regular tires. That’s not the only complaint though. While the reduced weight of carrying around a spare might seem like an advantage, run flat tires also have an impact on your fuel economy.

Are run flat tire rims different?

Run-flat tires and regular tires that are the same numeric size will have the same physical dimensions, and can fit properly on the same wheels. The only difference with run-flat wheels is they usually have an extra hump behind the bead seat.