Do Run-Flat Tires Go Completely Flat?
Have you heard of run-flat tires? The name can be confusing if you’re not familiar with this type of tire. Essentially, run-flat tires are designed to continue functioning even after they’ve lost air pressure. This means that if they continue to work even if they’re punctured, so they allow you to drive further to get to a safe location to repair or replace them.
However, there are some misconceptions about how these tires work and whether they really can go completely flat.
This article explores the inner workings of run-flat tires and asks the big question: Can they really ever go completely flat? For personalized advice, contact our team at Carlisle TyrFil today.
What Are Run-Flat Tires?
Most of us have experienced that moment where your heart seems to deflate as you feel your vehicle’s tire do the same. Whether you ran over a nail, another sharp object, or didn’t realize your tire pressure was low until it was too late, it’s a situation many drivers will find themselves in at one time or another.
Unless you have run-flat tires.
Run-flat tires look like regular tires to the naked eye, but operate much differently. They’re made of stiff rubber that, even when fully deflated, can still support the weight of the vehicle. This is the difference between regular tires and run-flat tires, as regular tires will stop your vehicle in its tracks. Meanwhile, you can drive about 100 miles on a run-flat tire (though you should always repair or replace it as soon as possible regardless, as driving on them in this state for an extended period of time can lead to irreparable damage).
Do Run-Flat Tires Go Completely Flat?
Whether run-flat tires go completely flat or not depends on what type of run-flat tire it is. There are two main types of run-flat tire: Self-supporting and auxiliary-supported.
Self-Supporting Run-Flat Tires
Self-supporting run-flat tires have reinforced sidewalls designed to support the weight of the car, even when there’s no air pressure in the tire. They can travel up to 50 miles at a speed of 50 mph without any air pressure, and while they may lose some stability and handling during that drive, they won’t go completely flat.
Auxiliary-Supported Run-Flat Tires
Auxiliary-supported run-flat tires have an additional (or auxiliary) support system in the form of a ring or insert. This support system helps to support the weight of the vehicle if the tire lose air pressure. Run-flat tires with an auxiliary support can also travel up to 50 miles at 50 mph, but if the support system fails, the tire will likely go completely flat.
The Pros Of Run-Flat Tires
The first advantage of having run-flat tires is the knowledge that if you were to puncture a tire, you’ll likely be safer than somebody in the same situation whose car has regular tires. Run-flat tires mean you can keep going until you reach a safe destination to get out and check on it, as opposed to stopping where the tire popped and needing to take care of it then and there.
If you have run-flat tires and puncture a tire on the open highway, you can continue to the next exit and find somewhere safe to pull over. If you’re not able to repair or replace it yourself, you can then either drive to or contact a mechanic or somebody else to assist you in a safe area, away from fast-moving traffic.
This also means you likely won’t need to make as many roadside assistance calls, and you won’t need to stop what you’re doing to immediately change a tire.
The Cons Of Run-Flat Tires
The main con to run-flat tires is the initial expense. They’re traditionally more of an investment than regular tires due to their added safety and convenience. Additionally, run-flat tires have been designed for high-end or performance cars. As a result, they occupy a smaller section of the tire market, which in turn makes them more expensive than their counterparts.
Run-flat tires also tend to make your overall ride feel rougher and sound louder. Every bump may feel exaggerated, and initially this may cause you to worry you’ve done damage to your car (even though you probably haven’t).
Run To Carlisle TyrFil Today
Whether you’re considering purchasing run-flat tires or simply curious about how they work, we hope you’ve gained some valuable insights into this innovative tire technology! While run-flat tires may not go completely flat depending on the type of run-flat tire, it’s important to understand their limitations and potential drawbacks and advantages before purchasing them for your vehicle.
Unsure if your vehicle already has run-flat tires? Know that it doesn’t but know that you want them? We’ve got you covered! At Carlisle TyrFil, we offer innovation, quality products, and support and have been doing so for 50 years. Whatever your question about run-flat tires, we’re happy to answer— get in touch with our knowledgeable team today.
