How Long Can a Run-Flat Tire Be Driven After Losing Pressure?

[LondonFitz]

Run-flat tires can be driven for 80 kilometers after losing pressure. Here are precautions for using run-flat tires: 1. Strictly avoid speeding: Frequent speeding can rapidly increase tire temperature, accelerating rubber aging, leading to delamination and blowouts. 2. Regular rotation: To ensure even wear across all tires and extend their lifespan, regularly rotate tires as specified, typically during secondary maintenance. 3. Standard pressure: Tire lifespan is closely related to air pressure. Both overinflation and underinflation can cause excessive wear and blowouts.

[SilasRose]

Last time my run-flat tire got punctured by a nail and lost air, the tire pressure warning light on the dashboard turned red. As an experienced driver, I immediately slowed down to 60 km/h and drove cautiously. The reinforced sidewalls of the run-flat tire could support the car's weight, but the steering became noticeably heavier and the wheel wobbled a bit. The manual says it can last up to 80 km, but I drove only 40 km before finding a repair shop. I recommend not pushing it too hard in such situations, especially don't exceed 80 km/h, as high tire temperatures can accelerate damage. Remember to turn on hazard lights and stay in the right lane—safety comes first. The mechanic said these tires usually need replacement after a puncture, as they can't be repaired.

[McSteven]

A friend asked me how far you can drive on a run-flat tire with no air, and I said it's like walking in high heels. Manufacturers usually claim it's safe for up to 80 kilometers, but in reality, it depends on the car's condition and road conditions. That time when my tire pressure warning light came on, I drove 30 kilometers in the city with my family of four before reaching the shop. The tire structure is quite special, with reinforced support rings inside that maintain the shape even without air, but the sidewalls can get compressed, deformed, and overheated. If you're driving on the highway or the tread is worn, it's best to address it within 30 kilometers. When the mechanic inspected it with a light, the inner sidewall was full of wrinkles, so we had to replace the tire.

[SophiaDella]

As a novice driver, I just experienced a run-flat tire losing pressure and was quite panicked. The tire pressure monitoring system suddenly flashed a yellow warning light, so I slowed down to 50 km/h and gripped the steering wheel tightly. The car body noticeably tilted to the right, and the tire made a humming noise. After driving through about three traffic lights for approximately 5 kilometers, I immediately pulled into a repair shop. The technician explained that run-flat tires have a rubber layer 50% thicker than regular tires, but after a puncture, internal temperatures can rise to over 100 degrees Celsius. Continuing to drive could cause the layers to separate. There are significant differences between brands—Michelin tires might last about 80 kilometers, while Hankook tires might reach their limit at around 60 kilometers. For safety, it's best to pull over immediately if a tire loses pressure and call for roadside assistance.

[ChristianAnn]

Years of research on run-flat tires in automotive forums reveal that the core of the run-flat technology lies in the reinforced rubber on the tire sidewall. Normally, they can endure up to 80 km/h or 80 mph, but the actual performance depends on the load. Once, my car was fully loaded with luggage, and after a puncture, I dared only to drive at 20 mph. After 30 km, the tire became too hot to touch. The internal steel belts gradually deform, like a tightly wound spring suddenly loosening. Therefore, the sooner you repair it, the better—beyond 50 km, the tire is basically ruined. Additionally, in summer, exposure to scorching roads halves the mileage. When the tire pressure warning light comes on, it's advisable to turn off the air conditioning to save power and keep the windows open for ventilation and cooling.