What Are Run Flat Tyres?

Well, that is a good question, we’re glad you asked. Run Flat tyres are constructed so, in the event of a sudden loss of air pressure, the tyre is still functional and can be driven on for a limited amount of time.

If you are unlucky enough to suffer a puncture, a Run Flat tyre can still be driven on for around fifty miles – giving you enough time to get your car home, or to find a tyre fitter/mechanic.

How Does a Run Flat Tyre Work?

In the majority of designs, a Run Flat tyre is able to remain functional with no air pressure thanks to a reinforced sidewall.

Standard tyres are supported and remain usable due to the air pressure within the tyres. Once this is lost, the tyre will fail.

The reinforced sidewall of a Run Flat tyre can support the car, minus the air pressure, temporarily.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

A very important component required to ensure the accurate use of Run flat tyres is a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Due to the fact that a Run Flat tyre can run on zero air pressure, it means that without a TPMS, a motorist may not know they’ve suffered a puncture.

With the TPMS, an alert is flashed up on their console letting them know that they have suffered a puncture and that they will need to replace the tyre as soon as possible.

Can I switch to run flat tyres from standard tyres?

Yes, in most cases it is possible to switch from conventional tyres to run flat tyres. However, it is important to ensure that your car is fitted with a compatible tyre pressure monitoring system.

As mentioned above - this is essential in alerting you if your tyre(s) suffers a puncture.

Are Run Flat Tyres Repairable?

Generally, no. Once it has suffered a puncture and been driven on, the structure of the tyre will be weakened.

For this reason, it is dangerous to try and estimate how long it further last. It is always better to be safe than sorry with your tyres.

As with all tyres, regardless whether they are Run Flat or standard, it is important to make sure you look after them - and make regular tyre safety checks. To reduced the risk of them failing.

To find out how you can tell whether a tyre is a Run Flat tyre and to discover the most popular Run Flat tyres that we stock at Blackcircles.com, visit our section dedicated to Run Flat tyres.