How Often Should Run-Flat Tires Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Run-flat tires should be replaced within 5 years. The replacement cycle for tires is introduced as follows: 1. Tire shelf life: The sidewall of the tire will have a four-digit number indicating the manufacturing date of the tire, with the first two digits representing the week and the last two digits representing the year; 2. The usage of tires should generally not exceed 3 years, and the mileage should not exceed 60,000 kilometers. Although slightly exceeding the service life and mileage is not a big issue, the low temperatures in winter and rain in summer can make the tire's wet grip and dry handling performance inadequate; 3. Pay more attention to the sidewall: As the tire rubber gradually ages, deep cracks will appear on the tire sidewall. However, as long as the sidewall has not been impacted and the cords are not broken, the tire can continue to be used; 4. The triangular marking symbol on the tire sidewall can help car owners find a protrusion in the tread groove, which can determine the actual wear limit of the tire. That value should be greater than 1.6mm (millimeters).
The replacement time for run-flat tires depends on several key factors. My car has been running for almost five years, and the mechanic specifically reminded me to check the tires during the recent maintenance. He said that if the tread depth is below 1.6 mm, it must be replaced—just like how worn-out shoe soles can easily slip. Additionally, pay attention to small cracks on the tire sidewalls, as aging rubber can become brittle. Since I often drive on highways, the mechanic recommended proactively replacing them every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. After all, even though run-flat tires can continue driving after a puncture, the sidewall structure may be damaged. I remember a fellow car owner who waited seven years to replace them, only to skid while turning in the rain. The most important thing is to regularly inspect them yourself. If you notice abnormal fluctuations in tire pressure or if the tire has been patched more than twice, it's time for a replacement.
Last time at the car club meetup, we discussed tires. Run-flat tires are generally more expensive than regular ones, but their replacement cycles are actually similar. From my own experience, I focus on two indicators: mileage and time. For city commuting, you'll noticeably feel reduced grip after about 60,000 kilometers, especially when braking in rainy conditions. In terms of time, never exceed six years as the rubber naturally ages and cracks. Once when helping my dad with his car inspection, I found his tires full of cracks yet he insisted on using them - so dangerous! My suggestion is to check the wear indicators in the tread pattern every time you wash your car. When those small raised blocks wear down, that's your signal to replace. Also, any tire that's been patched more than three times should be replaced directly for peace of mind.
