Run-flat tires are a type of tire that can function temporarily even after it has been punctured or damaged. This allows the driver to continue driving to a safe location or repair facility without having to change the tire immediately. We’ll examine how such tires work, the benefits and disadvantages of them, availability, and cost.
How Run-Flat Tires Work
Run-flat tires have reinforced sidewalls that can support the weight of the vehicle even when the tire has lost air pressure due to a puncture or other damage. The reinforced sidewalls are designed to hold the tire’s shape and prevent it from collapsing, even when it’s flat. This allows the driver to continue driving at a reduced speed (typically up to 50 miles) for a short distance until they can reach a safe location or repair facility.
Benefits of Run-Flat Tires
Increased Safety: Run-flat tires allow drivers to continue driving to a safe location or repair facility even after a puncture or other damage, reducing the risk of accidents or breakdowns on the road.
Convenience: Drivers don’t have to stop and change the tire immediately, saving time and hassle.
Space-saving: Run-flat tires eliminate the need for a spare tire, freeing up trunk space and reducing the weight of the vehicle.
Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tires
Higher Cost: Run-flat tires can be more expensive than standard tires, which can be a consideration when it’s time to replace them.
Rough Ride: The reinforced sidewalls of run-flat tires can make for a stiffer ride, leading to a less comfortable driving experience.
Limited Range: Run-flat tires can only be driven at reduced speeds for a short distance, typically up to 50 miles, which can limit a driver’s options for repairs or replacement.
Who Offers Run-Flat Tires?
Many car manufacturers now offer run-flat tires as standard or optional equipment on their vehicles, including BMW, MINI, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, Chevrolet, and Tesla.
BMW is perhaps the most well-known manufacturer to offer run-flat tires, with many of their models, including the 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series, coming with run-flat tires as standard equipment. MINI, a subsidiary of BMW, also offers run-flat tires as standard on all its models.
Lexus offers run-flat tires as an option on some models, such as the LS. Mercedes-Benz also offers run-flat tires as an option on some of their models, such as the C-Class, E-Class, and S-Class.
Audi offers run-flat tires as an option on some models, such as the A4, A5, and A6. Porsche, another luxury car brand, offers run-flat tires as an option on some models, such as the 911 and Panamera. Chevrolet offers run-flat tires as an option on certain vehicles, such as the Corvette and Camaro.
Finally, Tesla, a popular electric car manufacturer, comes with run-flat tires as standard equipment on some of their models, such as the Model S and Model X. Then again, it’s important to note that not all models from these manufacturers offer run-flat tires as standard or optional equipment, and the availability of run-flat tires can vary by region or trim level.
How Much Do Run-Flats Cost?
The cost of run-flat tires can vary depending on the brand, size, and type of vehicle. Generally, run-flat tires tend to be more expensive than regular tires due to their reinforced sidewalls and additional technology that allows them to keep functioning even after a puncture or other damage.
On average, run-flat tires can cost anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per tire, depending on the brand and size. For example, a Michelin Pilot Sport 4S ZP run-flat tire in size 245/40ZR18 can cost around $320 per tire, while a Bridgestone DriveGuard run-flat tire in the same size can cost around $190 per tire.
Tire Considerations
In closing, run-flat tires are a suitable and safer option for drivers, but they come at a higher cost and can provide a stiffer ride. Drivers should consider their individual needs and driving habits when deciding whether run-flat tires are the right choice for them.
See Also — Tire Terminology 101
Photos copyright Michelin North America, Inc., All rights reserved.
