Are Run-Flat Tires Really Immune to Blowouts?
2 Answers
Run-flat tires do not mean they are immune to blowouts. Instead, they allow the vehicle to continue driving for a certain distance even after a tire blowout or air leakage when the tire pressure is insufficient, giving you time to safely reach the nearest auto repair shop. Whether it's regular tires or run-flat tires, proper tire maintenance is essential during daily use. Here's a detailed explanation: 1. Generally, run-flat tires are marked with RSC or SSR on the sidewalls, and their price is significantly higher than that of regular tires. The reason run-flat tires can continue driving after a blowout is due to their reinforced sidewalls. Even without air pressure, they won't collapse and can support the vehicle to keep moving. 2. After a regular tire blowout, the car usually needs to stop for a tire change or call for a tow truck; otherwise, it may lead to an accident. However, if the car is equipped with run-flat tires, it can be driven to a safe location for further action, ensuring safety. Therefore, run-flat tires primarily prevent accidents following a tire blowout. Moreover, 'run-flat tire' is not their official name; their true name is 'tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) tire' or 'self-supporting tire.'
As a dad with 20 years of driving experience, let me talk about the real situation with run-flat tires. These things should actually be called 'tire pressure monitoring system tires,' and the key is their particularly thick sidewalls. Once, I had a screw puncture the side of my tire—a regular tire would have blown out immediately, but the run-flat tire allowed me to limp to the repair shop. However, it's not invincible! If you're speeding at 120 when a tire blows, you can still lose control. Also, keep in mind that these tires shouldn't be driven more than 80 kilometers when they're leaking air, or you could ruin the wheel rim. Remember, as long as all four wheels are on the ground, no tire can protect against falling steel bars.
