Are you looking for the perfect tires for your car, but you are not sure what labels to look for? Do you come across the abbreviation Run Flat and wonder what it means, and if this type of tire is worth looking out for? If so, read our guide and find out everything you need to know.
Flat Run tires were already manufactured before the Second World War. Run Flat is a special technology that gives the tire a reinforced structure and sidewalls. As a result, the tire is able to support the weight of the car even after a loss of pressure and allows driving at a speed of 80 km/h for a distance of 80 kilometers.
This is a very popular solution, which is chosen by many manufacturers. It is very convenient and practical. The safety and comfort of driving on these tires is ensured, which makes many drivers wonder whether it is worthwhile to decide to install them in their car. However, it is worth knowing that, as with any product, there are also listed disadvantages that are worth knowing about.
The advantages of Flat Run tires are that there is no risk of the car losing traction and control after a puncture. In addition, you do not have to stop immediately, after all, there is not always room for it. We will calmly get to a stop, where in safe conditions it will be possible to change a tire. They are also distinguished by greater resistance to mechanical damage.
However, there are several disadvantages that you should be aware of before you decide to buy a set of Run Flat tires. First, they are often more expensive than traditional models. In addition, driving on them is inconvenient, because they dampen bumps and noise less well. Their rigid and hard surface is not resistant to rapid abrasion, so it wears out very quickly. After its destruction you have to reckon with the fact that not every vulcanization service decides to repair it.
Before fitting Flat Run tires, it is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. They should tell you how to use them properly. It is worth knowing that these are tires that can be inflated with nitrate. However, not every manufacturer allows such action. Tire pressure must be adjusted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, so that the tires run smoothly and for a long time.
This type of tire makes it necessary to install a wheel pressure sensor in the car. If it is not, the driver may not even realize that there is a problem. Additionally, the car should be well adjusted to them. Tires should only be mounted by a professional. Mounting them at home with unprofessional tools can lead to damage to their side. If a tire is repaired after a puncture, it is worth remembering that after another puncture its range will be significantly reduced.
This type of tire is designed for specific cars. If the car was manufactured with these tires at the factory, it is better not to change them for another type, because this could lead to changes in the characteristics of the ride. In addition, when putting these tires on cars for which they were not designed, we should pay attention to the size of the rim and often check the pressure. Despite our attentiveness, this action can still negatively affect the comfort of the ride and the behavior of the car at high speeds.
Now that you know this much about Run Flat tires, you can determine for yourself whether they are worth your attention and whether they are suitable for the car you drive.
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