Run Flat Tyres

Run flat tyres are specially designed to keep you moving even after a puncture or sudden loss of air pressure. Instead of stopping immediately, you can continue driving safely—usually up to 50 miles at speeds under 50mph—giving you time to reach home, a garage, or a tyre specialist. These tyres also help reduce the risk of dangerous blowouts, which can be a major safety concern at high speeds.

What is a Run Flat Tyre?

Run flat tyres feature reinforced sidewalls that can temporarily support the vehicle’s weight even when air pressure is lost. This means you won’t be stranded on the roadside after a puncture. 👉 Important: Run flat tyres should only be driven on for a limited distance (around 50 miles) and below 50mph after a puncture. They are designed to work alongside a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which alerts you to a loss of air pressure. Without TPMS, you may not realise you have a puncture since the tyre still appears inflated.

How Do Run Flat Tyres Work?

• Reinforced sidewalls keep the tyre stable even when deflated.
• They maintain their shape long enough for you to safely reach a tyre centre.
• Materials are similar to standard tyres, so they wear at a similar rate under normal conditions.

Advantages of Run Flat Tyres

• Safety & control – Continue driving after a puncture instead of stopping suddenly.
• Convenience – No need to change tyres at the roadside.
• No spare tyre required – Many vehicles with run flats don’t carry a spare, saving boot space and reducing vehicle weight.
• Fuel efficiency – Less weight from spare wheels and tools can improve fuel economy slightly.

Disadvantages of Run Flat Tyres

• Higher cost – They are more expensive than standard tyres.
• Limited repair options – Most punctured run flat tyres cannot be repaired and must be replaced.
• Potentially faster wear – Depending on conditions, they may wear out more quickly than standard tyres.
• Vehicle compatibility – Not all cars are designed for run flats, and they should not be fitted without a TPMS.

Switching Between Run Flats and Standard Tyres

• If your vehicle was not originally equipped with run flats, it’s best not to retrofit them unless it has TPMS.
• If your vehicle comes with run flats, avoid switching back to standard tyres. Many cars with factory-fitted run flats do not include a spare wheel or tools for roadside tyre changes.

Do Run Flat Tyres Wear Faster?

Run flats can sometimes wear more quickly due to their stiffer sidewall construction, especially on rough roads. However, with proper care—such as maintaining correct tyre pressures and rotating tyres regularly—they can last as long as standard tyres.

How to Tell if a Run Flat Tyre is Punctured

Because run flats can still drive when deflated, it’s not always easy to notice a puncture by feel alone. Instead, rely on your TPMS dashboard warning light. This system alerts you if the pressure drops below safe levels, helping you avoid unknowingly driving too far on a damaged tyre.

Can Run Flat Tyres Be Repaired?

In most cases, run flat tyres cannot be repaired. It’s difficult to tell whether the internal structure has been weakened after driving with no air. For safety, they are usually replaced rather than fixed.

Best Run Flat Tyre Brands

Leading tyre manufacturers that produce reliable run flat tyres include:

• Michelin
• Continental
• Goodyear
• Pirelli

These brands invest heavily in research and development, ensuring their run flat tyres deliver maximum safety without compromising on performance.

Are Run Flat Tyres Worth It?

Run flat tyres are an excellent option if:

• You want the peace of mind of being able to drive after a puncture.
• You often travel long distances or on motorways.
• You prefer not to carry a spare wheel.

However, if budget is your priority, or you often drive in areas where replacement tyres are hard to source, standard tyres may be more practical.