The Run-Down on Run-Flat Tires

Posted: Jan 30, 2013
Author: Country Town Tire & Auto Service Center

One of the more recent innovations of the tire world is what is known as run-flat tires. The name is given by the tire's ability to run for up to 50 miles even while flat. The idea is to increase safety both during and after a tire blowout, as well as reducing or eliminating the need to stop on the side of the road to change a tire.

Run-flat tires are usually found on more recent models of higher-end sports cars and sedans, including the Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Corvette, and the BMW 3-Series. The tires avoid flats by virtue of a very thick and stiff sidewall, allowing the vehicle to continue driving (for a limited distance) even while they are not inflated. This feature enables you to make it to a repair shop (unless you happen to be travelling on a long, lonesome desert highway) rather than having to stop on the side of a possibly very busy road.

There are some complaints and possible drawbacks, however. Some vehicle owners have noted that the run-flat tires tend to wear out more quickly, needing replacement more frequently, and that they are more expensive. They also have been said to give a rather stiff riding experience. While these claims may or may not be substantiated, there is one concern many people share: many of the cars using run-flat tires do not carry a spare, which can be a cause for worry for some people. It seems the good old fashioned spare tire still provides some reassurance – especially if you are driving down that aforementioned desert highway.