We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Automotive

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are Run Flat Tires?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 9,471
Share

Run flat tires are car tires which are designed so that they can be used when punctured or extremely low on air. The basic genesis of the run flat design actually dates to the late 1800s, but it didn't become more widely available until the 1970s, and it is primarily a feature offered on luxury cars, especially sports cars. There are a number of advantages to using run flat tires, but there are also some distinct disadvantages which should be considered before equipping a car with run flat tires.

Several different systems can be used for run flat tires. Self sealing tires have an inner lining which automatically seals puncture holes, thereby keeping the tire inflated if it is punctured. Self supporting tires have rigid sidewalls which allow the tire to be used even if it has been punctured or partially deflated, and auxiliary supported systems have a secondary support ring.

Run flat tires are also equipped with sensors which provide data about tire pressure to the data, along with warnings. The car will usually need to be driven at reduced speed if the tires have been compromised, and it has a relatively short range. It is still possible to have a blowout if the tire is damaged in a way which causes catastrophic failure or if the car is driven despite run flat warnings indicating that the tire needs to be changed or repaired.

The big advantage to run flat tires is safety. Blowouts and tire deflation can be serious safety risks for drivers. As with other measures which increase vehicle safety, using run flat tires can decrease insurance premiums, as insurance companies want to provide an incentive for customers to increase safety. These tires are also convenient, as it isn't necessary to stop right away to address a flat. For people who do a lot of driving, especially at high speeds such as those found on the freeway, run flat tires can be extremely useful, and they may even save lives.

However, run flat tires can be substantially more expensive than conventional tires, and there is some dispute about the tread wear over the life of the tires. These tires are also stiffer, making for a stiffer ride and less fuel efficiency, which can be an issue for some drivers. Additionally, many cars designed for use with run flat tires lack an area for a spare tire, which means that if a driver opts to switch to conventional tires, there's no room for a backup in the event of a flat.

Share
WikiMotors is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WikiMotors researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Discussion Comments
By anon273488 — On Jun 07, 2012

Run away from Run Flat tires.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wikimotors.org/what-are-run-flat-tires.htm
Copy this link
WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.