Can Run-Flat Tires Be Repaired?
2 Answers
Run-flat tires may get punctured by sharp objects during driving, leading to air leakage. Some 4S stores recommend replacement over repair, as they need to follow the advice of tire manufacturers and carmakers. Certain automakers explicitly state that they do not endorse any tire repair methods, meaning only replacement is allowed. In reality, as long as the puncture is not too large, the tire can be repaired. Run-flat tires under the following conditions cannot be repaired. 1. The puncture is too large, exceeding 4.2 mm. 2. The puncture is located on the sidewall. 3. The tire was damaged while driving after being punctured and losing air. 4. The tire has been repaired twice already.
I've been driving on run-flat tires for years and have had several nail punctures, always wondering if they can be patched. Run-flat tires are specially designed with reinforced structures to keep going for a while after losing air. But can they really be repaired after a puncture? I asked at the repair shop, and the mechanic explained that patching might damage the internal structure, increasing sidewall pressure during driving, which could lead to loss of control at high speeds. For safety, most recommend replacing the tire outright. I once tried a patch repair myself, but it started leaking again within a month, forcing me to redo it. Since then, I've learned my lesson and always opt for a new tire. Everyone, take note: don’t try to save money by patching run-flat tires—if something goes wrong, it’s too late. These tires are expensive precisely because they’re designed for safety.
