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What is a run flat tyre?

 

A run flat tyre is a type of tyre that can be driven on after being punctured in the event of an emergency.    What are run flat tyres

 

Run flat tyres work by having a more rigid construction and reinforced tyre sidewall than normal tyres and are made with materials that allow them to retain air pressure for much longer periods under pressure. This extended mobility technology makes them more self supporting, and an ideal option for drivers who frequently travel long distances or who live in areas with hazardous roads.

 

While run flat tyres are more expensive than traditional tyres, the peace of mind they provide may be worth the investment.

 

Many tyre manufacturers produce both conventional and run flat tyres thus allowing consumers a choice.

 

Why you should use a run flat tyre

 

There are a number of reasons why you should consider getting a run flat tyre for your vehicle.

 

Perhaps the most important is safety.

 

A run flat tyre can help you get to safety in the event of a puncture or other emergency. They are also more durable than traditional tyres, making them a good option for drivers who frequently travel long distances.

 

Additionally, run flats are less affected by changes in the weather, meaning they perform well in all conditions. Finally, they are more expensive than traditional tyres, but the peace of mind they provide may be worth the investment.

 

What are the risks of driving with a run flat tyre?

 

There are a few risks to consider when driving with run flat tyre. However, one may be complacency. If you pick up a puncture on a run flat tyres, you should be able to travel a distance to get you safely home, or to a tyre retailer to replace your tyre.

 

However, driving on a punctured tyre does carry some risk. If the tyre is significantly deflated, run flat tyres or not, you should not drive on it regardless.   why use run flat tyres

 

Why are run flat tyres different to a conventional or normal tyre?

 

A run flat tyre is a type of tyre that can be driven on after being punctured. They are made with materials that allow them to retain air for much longer periods under pressure, making them an ideal option for drivers who frequently travel long distances or who live in areas with hazardous roads. While run flat tyres are more expensive than traditional tyres, the peace of mind they provide may be worth the investment.

 

How long can you drive on run flat tyres?

 

The amount of time you can drive on a punctured tyre will depend on the severity of the puncture and the type of tyre you have. A small puncture in a run flat tyre may allow you to drive for hundreds of miles, while a large puncture could deflate the tyre in a matter of minutes. It is important to note that driving on a punctured tyre can be dangerous, so drivers should only do so if they are in a genuine emergency situation.

 

Your car should be fitted with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) which keeps a check on the how the tyre loses pressure.

 

Can you repair run flat tyres?

The simple answer is no. Makers of run flat tyres say you should always replace a run flat rather than repair for one important reason – because the reinforced structure and design of a run flat make it nearly impossible to tell whether there's additional damage, as well as whether the interior structure integrity has not been compromised.

 

Can you change a run flat tyre?

 

It is possible to change a run flat tyre, but it is not recommended. Changing a tyre can be a difficult and dangerous task, so it is best left to a professional. Additionally, run flat tyres are more expensive than traditional tyres, so it may be better to simply replace the tyre rather than attempting to change it.

 

What should you do if you get a puncture?

 

If you get a puncture, it is normally important to stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Do not continue to drive on a punctured tyre, as this can be dangerous and can lead to an accident. Once the car is stopped, remove the tyre from the wheel and replace it with the spare tyre. You should then take the car to a mechanic to have the tyre repaired or replaced.

 

This is the general idea, anyway.

 

However, with a run flat tyre, because they are made with materials that allow them to retain air for much longer periods under pressure, you may be able to drive for hundreds of miles on a small puncture.

 

Of course, it is always best to stop the vehicle as soon as possible and replace the tyre with the spare, but in an emergency situation, a run flat tyre may allow you to make it to safety home, or to a tyre garage to affect a replacement.

 

How do you know if you have a run flat tyre fitted to your car?               do you have run flat tyres

 

There are a few ways to tell if you have a car fitted with run flat tyre.

 

One way is to look at the sidewall of your tyre to see if anything will identify run flat tyres. If you see the letters "RFT" or "run flat tyre" on the reinforced sidewall, then you have a run flat tyre.

 

Additionally, some run flat tyres will come with a yellow or orange band around the edge of the tyre. If you see this band, then you know that the tyre is a run flat.

 

If you have run flat tyres you will not have a spare wheel in the boot, in all likelihood. Vehicles fitted with standard tyres normally have a spare wheel, a tyre sealant kit or an air inflation kit fitted.

 

Finally, many car manufacturers now offer run flat tyres as standard on their models. If you are not sure whether your car has run flats, it is best to check with your car manufacturer or with a mechanic.

 

Can you mix and match your tyres?

 

Is it possible to mix and match standard tyres with run flats? Mixing conventional tyres with run flats is not a good idea really. Different tyre manufacturers will tell you to match tyres on the same axel as a minimum, even when getting a single tyre changed. Ideally match all 4 tyres on the vehicle for the best result.

 

Can you put air in a run flat tyre?

 

Yes, you can put air in a run flat tyre. In fact, it is best to check the pressure in your tyres on a regular basis, regardless of whether they are run flats or not.

 

Over-inflating or under-inflating your tyres can cause problems, and may even lead to an accident.

 

It is important to note, however, that once a run flat tyre has been punctured, it cannot be repaired. You will need to replace the tyre. You cannot simply keep putting air back in to get the pressure up.

 

Can you replace run flat tyres with conventional tyres on your car?

 

Whilst it is possible to replace run flat tyres with conventional tyres, it is not recommended. Run flat tyres are designed to work with a car's suspension and safety systems, so replacing them with conventional tyres could potentially affect the performance of your car.

 

Additionally, many car manufacturers now only offer run flat tyres as an option on their models. So, if you do replace your run flats with conventional tyres, you may not be able to find a tyre that is the same size and type as your original tyres.

 

If you are unsure whether or not it is safe to replace run flat tyres with conventional tyres on your car, it is best to speak to an expert.

 

As many motor manufacturers fit run flat tyres as standard, or original equipment, to their new cars, you may invalidate your warranty if you change the tyres to conventional ones. It would be best to check with the manufacturer on this point before you do anything.

 

In conclusion - Run Flat Tyres - yes or no?

 

Should you fit run flat tyres to your car? That is a question that can only be answered by the individual motorist. There are pros and cons to both run flats and traditional tyres, so it is important to do your research and make a decision that is right for you.