What does the run-flat tire symbol look like?
2 Answers
The English abbreviation for run-flat tires is RSC. It is usually marked on the front side of the tire. Since each tire brand has different definitions for run-flat tires, the symbols may vary slightly. Run-flat tire symbols by brand: Bridgestone run-flat tires are marked as RFT; Dunlop run-flat tires are marked as ROF; Goodyear run-flat tires are marked as ROF; Michelin run-flat tires are marked as ZP; Continental run-flat tires are marked as SSR. Simple method to identify run-flat tires: Place the tire on the ground and stand on it. If the sidewall is hard, it is a run-flat tire; if the sidewall can be easily pressed in by hand, it is a regular tire. Run-flat tires are primarily designed to address the frequent occurrence of tire blowouts leading to car accidents during daily driving.
The run-flat tire symbol is particularly eye-catching and can usually be found on the tire sidewall, resembling a small horseshoe shape or bearing the abbreviation "RFT" in English. I specifically researched this when choosing a car—it indicates that the tire is designed to be run-flat, allowing it to continue driving for about 50 kilometers even after being punctured by a nail, thereby avoiding the danger of sudden blowouts on highways. Regular tires don’t have this marking, so when purchasing new tires or inspecting old ones, carefully check the sidewall to ensure these symbols are present. Some brands, like BMW and Michelin, even have their own unique icons, such as a shield with tire tread patterns inside. Familiarizing yourself with these details can make car ownership more reassuring. Additionally, once you recognize the symbol, it’s advisable to check during every vehicle inspection to avoid accidentally installing non-run-flat tires, which could increase risks—after all, driving safety comes first.