Run flat tyres allow you to continue driving for a limited distance after a puncture. But are they the right choice for your vehicle? We explain how they work, their advantages and limitations.
Run flat tyres are specially designed to allow a vehicle to continue travelling after a complete loss of tyre pressure — typically for up to 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50mph. They achieve this through reinforced sidewall construction that supports the vehicle's weight even when the tyre is completely deflated.
There are two main types of run flat tyre: self-supporting run flats, which have reinforced sidewalls built into the tyre structure itself, and support ring systems, which use a hard ring attached to the wheel that supports the vehicle if the tyre loses pressure. Self-supporting run flats are by far the more common type fitted to passenger vehicles.
The main advantage of run flat tyres is safety and convenience — a sudden puncture will not cause immediate loss of vehicle control, and you do not need to change a tyre at the roadside in a potentially dangerous situation. Many vehicles fitted with run flat tyres do not carry a spare tyre, saving weight and creating additional boot space.
However, run flat tyres do have drawbacks. They are significantly more expensive than equivalent standard tyres, often 30-50% more. They typically provide a harsher ride quality due to the stiffer sidewalls. They cannot always be repaired after a puncture — most manufacturers recommend replacement after any loss of pressure, even if no visible damage is present. And they require specialist equipment to fit and remove.
Tech Mobile Tyres can supply and fit run flat tyres to vehicles across all our UK locations. Our mobile tyre engineers are experienced with run flat tyres and carry the specialist equipment required to fit them safely. If your vehicle is currently fitted with run flat tyres, it is important to replace like-for-like unless you are adding a spare wheel to the vehicle.
Contact Tech Mobile Tyres for advice on run flat tyres and to get a quote for supply and fitting at your location.
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