Can You Still Drive with a Run-Flat Tire at 0 Pressure?
3 Answers
When a run-flat tire has zero pressure, the vehicle can still be driven at approximately 80 km/h for about 80 kilometers. However, if the run-flat tire indeed has zero pressure, it is advisable to avoid continuing to drive unless absolutely necessary, to prevent further damage to the tire. Driving long distances under such conditions may cause the wheel rim to deform and render the tire unusable. Below are the functions of automotive tires: 1. Support the entire weight of the vehicle: Bear the vehicle's load and transmit forces and moments in other directions. 2. Transmit traction and braking torque: Ensure good adhesion between the wheel and the road surface to enhance the vehicle's power, braking, and off-road performance; work in conjunction with the vehicle's suspension to mitigate impacts during driving and dampen resulting vibrations. 3. Prevent damage to vehicle components: Protect vehicle parts from severe vibrations and premature wear, adapt to high-speed performance, reduce driving noise, and ensure safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
Last time I encountered this on the highway, run-flat tires are indeed more durable than regular tires, but don't push it when the tire pressure drops to zero. Although manufacturers claim you can drive 80 km with a flat, that's under ideal conditions at 50 km/h. In reality, with road debris and potholes, driving at zero pressure will make the wheel rim hit the ground directly, and the tire sidewall will be ruined within a few kilometers. I once tried it in the suburbs and only drove 3 km before the rim deformed—the towing cost ended up being more expensive than a new tire. The safest option is to call for roadside assistance, pull over with hazard lights on, and wait for help. Don't risk damaging the rim just to save trouble.
A veteran mechanic with 10 years of experience said to handle this situation in two steps: First, immediately reduce speed to below 30 km/h, and second, find the nearest repair shop. The reinforced sidewalls of run-flat tires can indeed support the vehicle, but driving for too long at zero tire pressure will cause the internal structure of the tire to be torn apart like kneading dough. Last time, a car owner forced it for 20 kilometers, resulting in the inner steel wires of the tire bursting out and puncturing the wheel arch. Remember, if the tire pressure warning light on the dashboard turns red, do not exceed 2 kilometers. Keeping an air pump in the car is the most practical solution.
