Run-Flat Tyres Explained: Pros, Cons and Who They're For

Run-flat tyres are built with reinforced sidewalls strong enough to support your vehicle's weight for a limited distance — typically around 80km at reduced speed — even after a complete loss of air pressure. They're increasingly common as factory-fitted equipment on premium saloons and SUVs.

The upside

No more changing a wheel on the roadside in the rain, or at night on an unlit stretch of highway. You can drive to a safe location, or straight to a tyre shop, after a puncture that would otherwise strand a standard tyre.

The trade-offs

Run-flats tend to have a firmer ride than standard tyres, since the reinforced sidewall that lets them run flat also makes them stiffer. They're usually more expensive to replace, and many run-flat sizes can't be repaired after a puncture — they're designed to be replaced, not patched.

Do you need a spare wheel with run-flats?

Most run-flat-equipped vehicles come without a spare wheel from the factory, relying on the run-flat capability instead. If you're fitting run-flats to a vehicle that didn't come with them, check whether your vehicle has a tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) — it's essential for knowing when a run-flat has actually lost pressure, since the ride doesn't change as obviously as it would on a standard tyre.

Not sure if run-flats are worth it for your car? Our team can talk you through the trade-offs for your specific vehicle and driving pattern.