Will Driving on a Flat Run-Flat Tire Damage the Wheel Rim?
2 Answers
Run-flat tires can continue to be driven on even when they are flat, but only for a short distance. In fact, run-flat tires are not actually 'explosion-proof.' These tires rely on their rigid sidewalls to support the vehicle when the tire pressure is too low, allowing the car to continue driving for a limited distance. This enables drivers to reach the nearest repair shop to fix the tire. Important Notes: Tires are rubber products and will age over time. It is recommended that drivers replace their tires every four years, even if the mileage is low during that period. When purchasing tires, always check the production date. The shelf life of unused tires is three years, so avoid buying tires that have been stored for more than three years.
I've been driving on run-flat tires for over a decade, and experience tells me that driving too long on a flat will definitely damage the wheel rims. Run-flat tires can support the car for a certain distance at zero pressure, say 50 to 80 kilometers, but they have design limitations. The wheel rim is a metal core, and without air in the tire, there's less cushioning. If you force it for dozens of kilometers, the impact from the road directly transfers to the rim, causing dents or deforming the wheel. Last time my car's warning light came on, I drove 40 kilometers to the repair shop. The mechanic checked and said the edge of the rim was already worn. Any farther, and I would've needed a new wheel. It's essential to regularly check the tire pressure system. Once a tire goes flat, immediately slow down to under 80 km/h and head straight to a repair shop. Don't take it lightly.
