Comprehensive Guide to Run Flat Tires: Benefits, Maintenance & More

Quite literally where the rubber meets the road, your tires play a vital role in both your safety and how your vehicle handles on a daily basis. As such an important component of your vehicle, it’s essential that you choose the right type of tires for your individual driving habits and maximize performance based on the conditions you typically drive in. Breakthroughs in modern tire technology have resulted in specialized rubber compounds that offer plenty of unique benefits and advantages not found in tires of the past.
One such example is a particular type of tires known as run flat tires (abbreviated RFT). If you’ve been curious about what makes run flat tires so special or if a set of run flat tires is right for your vehicle – you’re in luck! Our team at the Germain Motor Company has created this handy guide that covers the topic of run flat tires in greater detail so you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next set of new tires!

What Are Run Flat Tires?
A groundbreaking alternative to conventional tires, run flat tires feature specialized construction that gives them the ability to continue driving for short distances after a puncture so you can reach a safe stopping area or arrive at a repair facility. In the past, a punctured tire meant you’d be stuck on the side of the road with your safety in jeopardy.
There are two types of support systems used by run flat tires. The self-supporting system and support ring system both allow continued operation even after a significant loss of air pressure. In both cases, your vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will still alert you that you’re driving on an underinflated tire so you can use additional caution to reach your destination safely. While the recommended distance does vary by manufacturer and other factors, you can typically expect a range rating between 25 and 50 miles following a puncture. Quite an impressive feat!

What Are the Benefits of Run Flat Tires?
Safety
First and foremost, there’s no denying the added safety benefits that come from driving a vehicle equipped with run flat tires. Instead of risking your safety by attempting to change a tire on the side of the road or finding yourself stuck in an unsafe area waiting for roadside assistance – run flat tires make it possible to continue for short distances until you can stop safely. There’s no substitute for this peace of mind.
Convenience
Roadside assistance can often take hours, especially if you find yourself stuck in a remote area. Rather than missing an important appointment or commitment, run flat tires let you continue on your way until you locate a repair facility or a safe place to leave the vehicle temporarily until the damaged tire can be repaired. No more waiting for a tow truck or dealing with strangers on the side of the road!
Selection
As run flat tires have grown in popularity, you’ll have no trouble finding a set that fits your vehicle. Virtually all of the major tire manufacturers now offer run flat selections in most common tire sizes. For only a marginally higher price, you can experience all the confidence and convenience that drivers all across the country have grown accustomed to!