Can Run-Flat Tires Still Drive Without Air?

[DelTeagan]

Run-flat tires can still drive without air, but the distance they can travel is limited, and immediate repair is necessary. The technical name for run-flat tires is 'deflation-proof tires,' abbreviated as RSC in English. Their components include: the outer tire, the standard inner tube, the spare inner tube, the steel rim, the gas generator, the pressure sensor, and the control unit. Precautions for using run-flat tires include: 1. Avoid speeding to prevent rubber aging, delamination, and bursting; 2. Use low-pressure tires to improve ride smoothness and steering stability, preventing blowouts; 3. Regularly rotate tires to extend their lifespan; 4. Maintain standard tire pressure to avoid excessive wear.

[VanLilah]

Run-flat tires can indeed be driven when flat, primarily due to their special design with reinforced sidewalls that can support the vehicle to continue moving without air pressure. Typically, they allow driving for about 50 to 80 kilometers at speeds not exceeding 80 kilometers per hour, aiming to get you safely to a repair shop. You'll notice the car wobbling significantly, increased noise, and less stable steering control, so this isn't a long-term solution. I always remind myself to slow down as soon as the tire pressure warning sounds and head to the nearest service station. Driving too far or repeatedly on a flat can ruin the tire and potentially damage the wheel rim, leading to higher repair costs. Safe driving is paramount; don't risk it to save time.

[IvanLee]

As someone who frequently drives on highways, I've experienced situations with run-flat tires losing air. Their advantage is that they allow you to drive for a limited distance in an emergency, preventing you from having to stop in dangerous areas. However, you must not exceed 80 km/h, and the distance shouldn't be too far—no more than 50 km. When driving, the steering wheel noticeably vibrates, and the car tends to pull to one side. If the road is uneven, it's even easier to lose control. Once, I drove for too long, and the tire was completely ruined, costing me over a thousand yuan to replace. My advice is to turn on the hazard lights immediately if you notice anything unusual and slowly move to a safe spot to check, inflate, or change the tire. The run-flat feature is designed for safety, not as a free pass to avoid repairs.

[McLouis]

Run-flat tires can still be driven when flat because their sidewalls have high strength, maintaining shape to bear the load. They can travel at limited low speeds, such as below 80km/h for about 50 kilometers, aiming to avoid the dangers caused by tire blowouts. Driving with them will increase vehicle vibration, reduce braking effectiveness, and raise accident risks. I recommend daily maintenance of the tire pressure monitoring system to detect air leaks promptly, rather than waiting until the tire is completely flat. Tires are crucial components of a car; after completing the emergency driving segment, they should be replaced and not used further, as this could affect the suspension system. The core of safe driving is prevention.