Rumor has it that RunFlat tires are impossible to puncture. Apparently, this is why some automakers who equip their cars with them (hello, BMW!) Do not even put a spare tire or a stowaway in the trunk. It’s a pity, as practice shows, RunFlat does not save against bad roads and cord punctures. However, such tires can indeed be used in a punctured state. Yes, the speed in this case should be low, but you will still be able to reach the nearest tire fitting even without a primitive stowaway. RunFlat has both advantages and disadvantages, but further we will talk not only about them.
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How RunFlat tires differ from regular tires
There are a lot of sharp objects on domestic roads, and our motorists do not always have a sufficient level of pressure in the tires – in fact, as observations show, here are a couple of reasons for regular punctures. It’s good when I noticed an empty wheel somewhere near my own entrance. It’s bad when it started to go down in a long crossing, and it was noticed too late. Own, tires made using RunFlat technology, in theory, should become a real solution to this problem. It is difficult to say that it is 100%, but give or take partially – that’s for sure.
RunFlat tires are considered zero pressure tires, self-supporting tires, and so on. Even if they don’t have a single atmosphere, they can still be driven at speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour. Typically, RunFlat tires use reinforced sidewalls that will not peel off the rim even after a puncture. Unlike ordinary tires, on which in no case can you move in a deflated state, “armored” are able to hold the car for a short time, which should be enough until the next tire fitting. Something like a stowaway without herself.

RunFlat tires are typically 15-25% heavier than conventional tires. They use rubber with a slightly different composition, which is characterized by increased heat resistance. The bead ring is usually wider and the frame is reinforced. Moreover, in order to move effectively even after a puncture, RunFlat tires use a special tread pattern, which each manufacturer develops individually. However, it is important to understand that RunFlat tires are called not only hard tires that do not crumple during a puncture, but also “self-healing”.
RunFlat tires have several different options
◉ With reinforced sidewalls. This type of RunFlat tire is considered the most common. The frame and bead ring in this case are made of heat-resistant rubber, which does not sag even when the pressure in the tires tends to zero.

◉ With support ring. It is located on the side surface of such tires. After a puncture of such a tire, it descends on it and allows the driver to drive a few more tens of kilometers. In principle, this type can be considered a simplified version of the previous one.
◉ Self-healing. These actually have nothing to do with a couple of previous ones. They use a special layer that, when punctured, can act as a sealant. Small punctures or cuts will heal on its own and the vehicle can move on.
The latter option is not so common, so it is rarely taken into account. When trying to purchase RunFlat tires, you will most likely get one of the first two. That is why the text below focuses on them – including the chips, as well as the advantages and disadvantages.

RunFlat tires are recognized even by an inexperienced driver
Tire manufacturers individually label RunFlat. For example, those that are installed in the standard on BMW (Rolls-Royce and Mini) are designated as RSC or RunFlat System Component. The definition of MOE – MOExtended is used on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Audi operates AOE – Audi Original Extended.
Bridgestone tires are labeled RFT – RunFlat Tires. Michelin tires with the described technology are labeled ZP – Zero Pressure. Continental uses the abbreviation SSR for Self Supporting Runflat. Goodyear and Dunlop: ROF – Run On Flat. Pirelli – P Zero. Nokian simply says FlatRun. Others: SSS, ZPS and more.

Which cars can runFlat tires be used on?
Most tires using RunFlat technology are virtually identical in appearance when inflated and deflated. That is why they can only be operated on vehicles equipped with pressure sensors. Otherwise, there is a risk of not paying attention to the empty wheel and exceeding the maximum permissible travel speed on it. Driving really fast and also actively maneuvering between lanes will greatly increase the likelihood of a road accident. Moreover, for the use of empty RunFlat tires, the stability control system also does not interfere. By the way, these tires can be used with the most common disks.

RunFlat tires have both advantages and disadvantages
✅ Pros of tires with RunFlat technology
- RunFlat tires allow you to move even after a puncture – this is a key advantage of these tires over conventional ones. If you do not drive especially aggressively, you can not change the wheels for a stowaway and even a full-fledged spare tire. This is a huge time saver – at least in theory.
- Without a spare wheel or even a stowaway, there is more free space in the trunk. This is especially true in two cases: firstly, if a spare wheel in any form is not provided at all; secondly, if gas or some other auxiliary equipment is installed in its niche.
❌ Cons of tires with RunFlat technology
- RunFlat tires weigh significantly more. This does not have the most positive effect on both vehicle dynamics and fuel consumption. Even this 15-25% in the weight of each tire is already felt, because this is the weight of the moving wheel, and not the whole car.
- Riding the RunFlat is not very comfortable – especially on uneven roads. The tires are quite hard and relatively noisy. If there are enough holes on the way, then you will be able to feel them as your fifth point at 100%, even if the suspension is sufficiently soft.
- RunFlat tires are significantly more expensive than conventional tires. Tires of approximately the same level with and without technology can differ in price by 50% or even 100%. It is also important to note that the service with RunFlat is also not very cheap. Tire repair is expensive. The suspension suffers.

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