What Are Run-Flat Tires (And Are RFTs Worth It)?

By Tire Agent Staff

April 28, 2022

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This article is all about run-flat tire technology and how run-flat tires work. We answer these questions:

Are run flat tires good in snow?
Are run flat tires more expensive?
Are run-flat tires noisy?
How do run flat tires work?
When can you use run flat tires?

Advancements in technology over the past few decades have changed how we live. From smartphones to autonomous cars to virtual voice assistants in your home, tech makes life easier.

It's not just the transformation from flip phones to powerful computers that fit in your pocket that's impressive. You can also find some pretty cool technology in things you wouldn't always think of, like tires.

Run-flat tires (RFT) first hit the scene in the mid-80s, but are now more popular than ever. What are these innovative tires, and are they worth the cost? Let's answer the important questions, so you know exactly what run-flat tires are and if you should get some for your vehicle.

Run-Flat Tires Defined

Run-flat tires do precisely what their title suggests. If one tire on your vehicle gets punctured, you can continue driving until you can safely make it to an auto shop or a safe place to change the tire.

You cannot drive on run-flats indefinitely. Consult the manufacturer's specifications to determine how fast and far you can go on a punctured run-flat tire. The average distance you can safely drive is around 50 miles.

The idea of driving on a punctured tire might give you anxiety because it goes against everything your dad (or mom!) taught you, right? But don't worry. RFT technology makes it safe.

How RFT technology works

There are a couple of types of RFT technology. One is the self-supporting system. The other is a support ring system.

In most self-supporting systems, tires feature a reinforced sidewall structure, which will continue to support the vehicle even if air is lost. This design allows you to continue driving following a loss of air pressure up to the manufacturer's recommended speed and distance.

Support ring run-flat tire systems use a ring of hard rubber or another structure to sustain the vehicle's weight in the event of air loss.

The real question is: How long can you drive on run flat tires? Generally, the rule is you can drive on RFTs no more than 50 miles and no faster than 30 miles per hour.

When Can You Use Run-Flat Tires?

Run-flat tires may be used only on a vehicle equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), since they continue to perform even when considered flat. If you aren't sure whether your vehicle has a TPMS, check your owner's manual or your manufacturer's website.

RFT technology works in snowy conditions, too. If you live in a winter wonderland, you're in luck. Tire manufacturers have engineered specific RFT models with winter weather in mind. For example, Nokian's Hakkapeliitta 9 (pictured) is a studded winter tire with run-flat technology.

To find RFTs for your vehicle, enter your vehicle make, model, year and body trim style and Tire Agent's tire-matching technology will list tires that fit your vehicle. To find only RFTs, select VIEW ALL FILTERS and then check "Run Flat = Yes."

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SHOP RUN FLAT TIRES

Do You Have to Use Run Flats if Your Vehicle Came With Them?

No, you do not have to replace run-flat tires with the same. You can replace RFTs with regular tires. However, if your vehicle came with non-RFT tires, you can upgrade to RFTs only if your vehicle has a TPMS.

What Are the Downsides to RFT?

Safety is one of the most important factors when considering tire options, and one of the benefits of run-flat is the ability to safely drive on your RFT for a limited distance (and at a lower speed) until you're able to change the tire.

The biggest downside of run flat tires is their cost. You will pay more for RFT models compared to traditional tires. It's estimated that you'll pay about one-third more for an RFT model, plus because you can't pair them with standard tires, you'll need all four tires to be run-flat tire models.

Speaking of costs, run-flats can also lower fuel efficiency. Because RFT technology adds weight to the tire, fuel economy can be reduced by one to two percent. That said, Michelin Primacy 3 (pictured) is a touring summer run flat tire that is also fuel efficient, plus it comes with a 45,000 mileage warranty.

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Ride quality is another thing to consider. Some say run-flat tires are a little noisier than standard tires and could decrease overall ride quality. That's due to the enhanced sidewall. Pirelli's Cinturato P7 All Season (pictured), however, is a touring tire for luxury vehicles that boasts reduced road noise in addition to fuel efficiency and run flat technology.

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Do You Already Have Run-Flat Tires?

For simple identification, certain tires are plainly labeled "run-flat" on the side of the tire. Look for codes such as ZP, RFT or ROF (Run-Flat Tire/Run On Flat), SEAL, or marks such as a flat tire with an arrow pointing away. Use a magnifying lens if necessary to see the symbols.

You can also examine the tire's rim section, as many run-flat tires include plastic load-bearing slugs instead of regular rubber rims connected to the wall.

Despite the drawbacks, many manufacturers and drivers agree that the safety and convenience of run-flat tires outweigh the expense and hassles of replacement. As technology advances, so does the usability of run-flat tires.

Most major manufacturers include run-flat technology in their top tires, demonstrating their confidence in them and consumer acceptance. In the end, using run-flat tires is up to you and your preference. Here is a list of a few brands that make run flat tires: