Can Run-Flat Tires Still Be Driven When Flat?

[GabrielMarie]

Run-flat tires can still be driven when flat. Relevant information is as follows: 1. Driving: Even if the air pressure in the tire is completely lost, you can still continue driving at a speed of 80 km/h without immediately replacing the tire. 2. Driving Distance: Run-flat tires can still travel up to 250 kilometers after a puncture. In reality, if encountering significant damage (such as being punctured by a large sharp object) or poor road conditions, the driving distance may be reduced to several tens of kilometers, typically within the range of around 100 kilometers. The reason run-flat tires do not collapse after losing air is mainly due to their thickened rubber sidewalls. Even without air pressure, the sidewalls can support the vehicle's weight, preventing severe deformation. Therefore, a punctured run-flat tire does not significantly affect the vehicle's driving, and the driver might not even notice it.

[SabrinaLynn]

I've been driving for over a decade, and it's true that run-flat tires can still drive for a while when they're flat, but never exceed 80 km/h. Last time I had a nail in my tire, I relied on the run-flat feature to make it to the repair shop. Remember, you can drive up to about 80 kilometers at most, and you'll feel the steering wheel getting particularly heavy, with the car leaning towards the side with the flat. It's advisable to turn on the hazard lights immediately and slowly pull over to find a repair shop. The sidewalls of run-flat tires are extra thick, designed specifically for such emergencies, but don't treat them like regular tires—once you get to the repair shop, they should be replaced if necessary.

[QuinnLee]

As someone who frequently drives long distances, I've personally tested driving with a flat run-flat tire. After the tire pressure warning light came on, I deliberately observed the situation. Driving below 80 km/h for half an hour was completely fine. However, the car body noticeably tilted, and it made loud clunking noises when going over speed bumps. My advice to fellow drivers: don't panic in this situation, hold the steering wheel firmly and maintain a steady speed, and absolutely avoid sudden braking. Once I stubbornly drove 50 kilometers before finding a repair shop, and the mechanic said the wheel rim edges were literally sparking from friction. So timely handling is really crucial.

[Crystal]

From a structural perspective, run-flat tires have thickened rubber support ribs on the sidewalls that bear the vehicle's weight when deflated. However, don't mistake them for regular tires - I've seen cases where people forced them to drive, resulting in wheel rim deformation. Within safe limits, it's recommended not to exceed 80 km/h and keep the distance under 80 km. If you hear metal scraping sounds, stop immediately as that indicates the rim is grinding against the road. During tire repairs, note that these tires are particularly difficult to dismount, and small shops may lack the specialized equipment required.