What is a Run Flat Tyre?
They function just as you might expect from their name; they continue to run even when they are flat. Most new automobiles now come standard equipped with run flats because of their safety benefits.
Once they've been punctured, you can continue to use them until you can get a new tyre installed. They can support the weight of the vehicle, occupants, and cargo in the case of a puncture because they feature a reinforced sidewall that is stronger than the sidewall on earlier tyres.
You don't need to carry a spare tyre if your automobile utilises run flats. Therefore, you can avoid stopping in a potentially hazardous spot to repair a flat tyre.
How do I know if my vehicle uses Run Flat Tyres?
If your car has a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), run-flat tyres are almost certainly what it utilises.
A TPMS, as the name implies, monitors the pressure in your tyres and notifies you if there are any issues. It's crucial to pay attention to system notifications since there's a risk that one (or more) of your tyres has sustained a puncture.
How Long do Run Flat Tyres Last?
They will degrade at the same rate as conventional tyres and must still have a tread depth of at least 1.6 millimetres to stay authorised for use on public roads. Driving on any tyres that have less tread depth than what's required by law can get you a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre and points on your licence.
You should check your tyres every two weeks to make sure they're still legal for the road, even if the TPMS hasn't sent you an alarm.
How to tell if your Run Flat Tyres are damaged?
In the event that there has been a change in tyre pressure, your TPMS will notify you via the central console. When that occurs, it is advised that you pull over as quickly as possible in a secure area to inspect your tyres for significant damage.
The tyre won't appear to be damaged or deflated at all if it has been punctured. This indicates that you can continue to drive on the tyre for a specific distance and at a specific speed; for additional information on any potential restrictions, consult the owner's manual of your car.
How to drive safely on a punctured Run Flat Tyre
The manual for your car will contain information from the manufacturer on suggested distances and speeds. This often covers up to 200 miles at 30 to 50 miles per hour. Although, we advise you to drive to your nearest garage to replace the damaged tyre or why not give Grangetown Tyres a call? We'll come to you!
Try not to panic if your TPMS alerts you. Driving on a punctured run-flat tyre shouldn't feel any different, but if the damage is more severe, you will sense a difference. Locate a secure spot to stop and check your tyres.
Can you repair a damaged Run Flat Tyre?
Unfortunately, a run-flat tyre cannot be repaired after a puncture or any other type of damage because of the way it is strengthened to remain usable when punctured.
Driving on a damaged run-flat tyre compromises the stability of the car's support system. In contrast to a conventional tyre, this cannot be repaired.
This could first seem like a drawback, but when you consider that you won't need to purchase or carry a spare tyre, replace a flat on the side of the road, or seek roadside help, the advantages become clear.
Additionally, a TPMS does provide that added piece of mind by warning you when the pressure drops.
Blog article by Matt Atkinson, SME Geek Ltd