Introduction
A tyre puncture can disrupt any journey — but improper installation of run-flat tyres can compromise safety even before a puncture occurs. Whether you are embarking on a road trip or commuting to work, a flat tire can derail your plans and turn a peaceful journey into a stressful event.
However, with technological advancements in the automotive sector, there is now a solution that can reduce the impact of a flat tyre on your travels – run-flat tyres. These tyres offer added convenience and safety, but only when installed properly and regularly inspected.
Incorrectrun flat tyre fitting can affect your vehicle’s performance and ride comfort. In this blog, let’s explore run-flat tyres, their installation, benefits, and inspections.
What Are Run Flat Tyres?
Specially designed run-flat tires enable you to drive a short distance even after your tyre’s air pressure drops. Most tyres allow the car to travel, typically up to 80 km at 80 km/h, depending on the tyre brand and road conditions.
There are two kinds of run-flat tyres available:
- Self-supporting run-flat tyres – These tyres have reinforced sidewalls that support the vehicle’s weight in the event of a loss of air pressure.
- Support ring systems – In these tyres, a hard-rubber ring is attached to the wheel to support the car in the event of a tyre deflation.
Benefits Of Using Run-Flat Tyres
Let’s look at the benefits of using run-flat tyres over standard tyres for your vehicle in the UAE.
- These tyres enhance safety by allowing you to control your vehicle even after a flat tyre.
- You do not need to change a flat tire immediately or wait for roadside assistance with a run-flat tire.
- Knowing you have run-flat tires, you will have peace of mind about any problems caused by flat tires.
- You would not need a spare tyre, freeing up cargo space, reducing overall vehicle weight, and improving fuel efficiency.
Why Is It Necessary To Get Run Flat Tyres Properly Installed?
Run-flat tyre installation differs from standard tyre fitting due to their reinforced sidewalls, which require specialized handling.
If it is not properly installed, it can lead to:
- Wheel rim scratches
- Bead damage
- Vibration issues
- Air leak
- TPMS malfunction
- Premature tyre failure
For the above reasons, you need specialized run flat tyre mounting equipment and professionals to install the tyres.
Run Flat Tyre Installation Requirements
Wondering how to install run flat tyres? Before this, it is also important to understand that not all vehicles are factory-tuned for run-flat tyres. Installing them on incompatible vehicles may affect ride quality and performance. Listed below are the essential installation requirements for run-flat tyres.
1. TPMS Mandatory
These tyres must only be installed on cars with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). It is because run-flat tyres can remain usable even when flat, and TPMS helps alert drivers to a puncture.
2. Replacement Matching
If the previous tyre on the vehicle was a run-flat tire, it must only be replaced with a run-flat tyre. This is crucial because vehicles with run-flat tires do not carry a spare tire.
3. Professional Fitting
Run-flat tyres have rigid, reinforced sidewalls that make mounting difficult. Therefore, specialized equipment is needed to install the tyre bead without damaging it.
4. Right Rims
These tyres should be mounted on rims with a double hump design to ensure the tyre does not come off the rim.
Inspection Tips For Run Flat Tyres
Here are some tips to inspect these tyres to ensure they are not deflated or have any hidden damage.
1. Visual Check
Regularly check for cuts, punctures, or bulges in the sidewalls of tyres, particularly after hitting a pothole.
2. Pressure Checks
Remember to check tyre pressure monthly using TPMS and a manual gauge to ensure proper inflation.
3. After-Run Inspection
After driving on low pressure, check your car tires right away for any hidden internal damage, sidewall tension, overheating, or structural weakness.
4. Tread Wear
To preserve road grip, avoid blowouts, guarantee stability, and prolong tire life, routinely check tread depth and uneven wear patterns.
Can Run-Flat Tyres Be Repaired?
Not all run-flat tyres can be repaired; however, this varies with the tyre manufacturer. Some manufacturers allow repair if:
- The puncture is within the tread area.
- The tyre was not driven beyond the zero-pressure limit.
- There is no structural damage.
FAQs
1. How to detect loss of air pressure in run-flat tyres?
Air pressure loss in flat tyres can be detected using TPMS installed in the vehicles. This makes it more likely that the driver will drive carefully and be aware of the puncture.
2. Can run-flat tyres be installed in any car?
No, not all cars can have run-flat tires installed. For vehicles to securely support run-flat performance and handling, they need suitable wheels, a working TPMS system, and properly adjusted suspension.
3. How far can I drive safely with a puncture on a run-flat tyre?
Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions and the condition of the road, most run-flat tires allow driving up to 50 miles at no more than 50 mph after a puncture.
4. Does the weight of a run-flat tire impact fuel economy or driving performance?
Although modern designs minimize performance differences, run-flat tires are heavier due to their strengthened sidewalls, which can slightly reduce fuel efficiency and result in a harsher ride.
5. Where can I get run-flat tyres installed in the UAE?
Professional tyre centres equipped with run-flat mounting machines and TPMS calibration tools — such as Dial A Tire — ensure safe installation.
