What Are Run-Flat Tires? 13 Quick Answers (For Beginners)

Run-flat tires use superior engineering for a safer drive in almost any case. If you have ever gotten a flat tire, you know how time-consuming it is to get back on the road.

Drive safely to the nearest tire dealer in any circumstances with run-flat tires.

Who makes Run-Flat Tires?

Many car manufacturers make run-flat tires.

This includes:

  • Bridgestone,
  • Bridgestone for Mercedes-Benz,
  • Continental,
  • Dunlop,
  • Firestone,
  • Goodyear,
  • Kumho,
  • Michelin
  • Hankook
  • Accelera,
  • Atturo,
  • Giti,
  • Goodride,
  • Federal,
  • Lexani,
  • Maxxis,
  • Membat,
  • Momo,
  • Nokian,
  • Yokohama,
  • Sailun,
  • Nankang,
  • and Pirelli.

Michelin is probably the most known brand on the list and also typically worth the extra coin.

What are Run-Flat Tires?

A run-flat tire is a pneumatic vehicle tire that is designed to resist the effects of deflation when punctured. It will enable the vehicle to continue to be driven at reduced speeds – under 55 mph (89 km/h) – and for limited distances, usually between 10 mi (16 km) and 50 mi (80 km).

The design of the tire allows it to support the weight of a vehicle even after a puncture.

Ideally, it’s made to let you drive to the repair shop after a puncture is discovered safely.

What Vehicles Can Use Run-Flat Tire

Almost any conventional vehicle can use run-flat tires.

However, for the best usage, wheels need to be specifically designed to fit run-flat tires. Otherwise, they run a risk of separating or causing overheating from the friction of unsuitable tires.

Also, a tire with a brass valve core may corrode if used in combination with a tire pressure sensor. Valve stems made from aluminum Nickel-plated valve cores must be used with aluminum tire pressure sensor valve stems.

How do Run-Flat Tires Work?

Run-flat tires are made with reinforced sidewalls that can support the weight of the vehicle even when they’re not inflated.

This means that if you get a flat tire, you can keep driving until you find a safe place to stop.

For more information, please read our article about what run-flat tires are used for and how they differ.

What are the Benefits of Run-Flat Tires?

The main benefit of run-flat tires is that they can help you to avoid being stranded on the side of the road.

They also tend to provide a smoother ride than regular tires and can be helpful in maintaining control of your vehicle if you do experience a flat tire.

Some Other Benefits of Run-Flat Tires Include:

Improved handling:
Run-flat tires often provide better handling than regular tires, especially in emergency situations.

Maintaining control:
Run-flat tires can help you maintain control of your vehicle if you do experience a flat tire.

Improved performance if they get punctured:
Rocks, nails, screws, and other sharp objects can lodge into tires and cause punctures. If this happens, run-flat tires will often continue to perform better than regular tires.

This is because the reinforced sidewalls help to prevent the tire from collapsing.

What are the Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tires?

Run-flat tires can be more expensive than regular tires, and they may not be available for all vehicles. They also tend to wear out more quickly than regular tires, so you may need to replace them more often.

Additionally, run-flat tires may not provide as much traction in icy or snowy conditions.

What is the PAX System?

The PAX system is a type of run-flat tire that features a reinforced sidewall and an inner support ring. This system allows the tire to continue to be used even if it is punctured or has a loss of pressure.

What Are the Different Types of Run-Flat Tires?

There are two main types of run-flat tires:

  1. Those with built-in self-supporting technology
  2. and those that require an external support system.

They differ in price and construction but both are great options.

What is the Self-Supporting Run-Flat Tire?

The self-supporting run-flat tire is the most common type of run-flat-tire.

These tires have reinforced sidewalls that can support the weight of the vehicle even when they’re not inflated.

This means that if you get a flat tire, you can keep driving until you find a safe place to stop.

What is the External Support System Run-Flat Tire?

The external support system run-flat tire requires an external support system, such as a wheel rim ring or an airless tire, in order to function.

These tires are less common than self-supporting run-flat tires, but they may be used on some vehicles.

What Are the Different Sizes of Run-Flat Tires?

Run-flat tires are available in a variety of sizes to fit different vehicles.

Some of the most common sizes include:

  • P215/60R16 95H
  • P255/45R17 97V
  • P265/70R17 113S
  • P275/40R20 105Y

Ask your car shop for tires that fits your vehicle.

How Much Do Run-Flat Tires Cost?

Run-flat tires can be more expensive than regular tires, but the price will vary depending on the brand and type of tire.

Some run-flat tires can cost as much as $200 or more.

How Do Run-Flat Tires Work?

Run-flat tires are designed to resist the effects of deflation when punctured. They are made with reinforced sidewalls that can support the weight of the vehicle even when they are not inflated.

This means that if you get a flat tire, you can keep driving until you find a safe place to stop.

Who Makes All-Weather Run-Flat Tires?

Bridgestone makes the DriveGuard Run-Flat tire, the Blizzak LM-25 RFT, and Potenza re050a Pole Position RFT. Michelin makes the Pilot Sport A/S Plus ZP. Firestone makes the Firehawk Wide Oval RFT.

Continental makes a self-supporting ContiProContact SSR. Goodyear make the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat

Who Makes the Quietest Run Flat Tires?

Pirelli makes the quietest run-flat tires such as the Scorpion Verde Run Flat 255/45-20 and Zero Run Flat 245/50-18

Who Makes All Season Run Flat Tires?

Find excellent run-flat tires like

  • the Yokohama ADVAN Sport ZPS,
  • Hankook Ventus S1 EVO2 HRS,
  • Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 Run Flat,
  • Bridgestone Potenza RE050A Pole Position RFT,
  • Goodyear Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat

Who Makes Run-Flat Winter Tires?

Michelin Latitude X-Ice X12 ZP 255/55-18 XL Tire is one top choice for winter tires, as well as the Bridgestone Blizzak or the Bridgestone Driveguard.

Pirelli makes the Winter Sottozero 3 Run Flat.

Who Made the First All Run Tire?

The Dunlop Company made the first commercially available run-flat tire in the ’70s and the ’80s. Since then we have seen more and more tire brands start producing these special tires.

Are Run-Flat Tires Really Worth It?

For drivers who drive in difficult or unpredictable conditions, or who simply want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can keep driving even if you get a flat tire, run-flat tires may be worth the investment.

These tires can be more expensive than regular tires, but they have great safety features that make them a worthwhile investment.

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