Advantages & Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tires

Advantages & Disadvantages of Run-Flat Tires

Flat tires always seem to happen at the worst time and/or place. Usually people will call roadside assistance, but unfortunately chances are high that they'll be waiting 45 minutes to an hour for someone to arrive and help out. If you know how to change a tire, it's a pretty dirty job and chances are high that you don't have the equipment necessary for it on hand. Even worse, your car may not even have a spare tire at all. This is where Run-Flat Tires come in.

Due to the growing popularity, more customers are asking about Run-Flat Tires and if they're right for them.

What Is A Run-Flat Tire?

Run-Flat tires are tires that you can keep driving on even after they've been punctured. This means that you have the ability to get to an area where you can safely change your tire, or get to an auto shop if necessary. A lot of people think that you can drive on these tires indefintely, but that is not the case. You'll want to check the manufacturer’s specifications to figure out exactly how far and how fast you can safely drive on your Run-Flat tires.

How Do Run-Flat Tires Work?

There are two main types of Run-Flat tire systems, they're commonly known as Self-Supporting and Support Ring. In most self-supporting systems the Run-Flat tire features a reinforced sidewall that helps to keep supporting your vehicle in the event that your tires experience air loss. 

Most Common Advantages To Run-Flat Tires:
You won't have to worry about changing your tires in dangerous conditions.
If they're punctured or you get a flat, they will help you to maintain better control.
They work well with interconnected technologies like TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system).

Most Common Disadvantages To Run-Flat Tires:
You won't have a spare tire available.
Reduced tread wear due to the softer tread compound.
More difficult to tell when your tires are low since the sidewalls do not bulge.

As you see, Run-Flat tires overall have more advantages than true disadvantages. Search our huge selection of tires on credit today! We offer competitive weekly or monthly payment plans on all of our brand name tires, so you can buy now and pay later for your tires this holiday season. Shop now from any mobile device!