Can Mercedes-Benz Run-Flat Tires Be Repaired?
2 Answers
Mercedes-Benz run-flat tires can be repaired. It is recommended to utilize the robust sidewalls of run-flat tires to drive normally to the nearest repair shop. Advantages of run-flat tires: 1. They have the ability to continue driving with zero tire pressure, meaning that even when the tire pressure is exhausted or the tire is damaged, causing air leakage, the vehicle can still safely travel 100 to 250 kilometers at speeds below 80 km/h; 2. Durability, the sidewalls of run-flat tires are reinforced with a layer of natural renewable rubber developed using nanotechnology. The inflated sidewalls of Mercedes-Benz run-flat tires are the main part supporting the vehicle's weight, especially for those with a larger aspect ratio. For example, the first RSC run-flat tire equipped on the BMW 7 Series allows the vehicle to continue driving for 250 kilometers at a speed of 80 km/h even when the tire is deflated.
I specifically consulted a senior tire shop technician on this issue. Run-flat tires can indeed be repaired, but it must be done using the mushroom plug method - ordinary patch repairs are absolutely unacceptable! Three critical conditions must be met: the puncture must be located in the central tread pattern area, the wound diameter cannot exceed 6mm, and it must be the first repair. After repair, wheel rebalancing is mandatory, otherwise vibration will occur at high speeds. This was exactly how I handled my last run-flat tire puncture, and it lasted 20,000 km without issues. Special attention must be paid to recalibrating the tire pressure monitoring system post-repair to avoid annoying false alarms. Keep speeds below 120 km/h after repair - safety first. I recommend going to reputable professional tire shops, as major chains now have specialized equipment for hot vulcanizing strips and mushroom plug repairs.
