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Run-flat tyres are a handy invention of the car industry and have reinforced sidewalls to prevent them from sagging when they lose most or all of their pressure. The idea is to stop sudden deflations that might cause a vehicle to lose control or leave its driver stranded in the middle of nowhere.
But how can you tell if your tyres are run-flats? That’s the purpose of this post. We explore some tell-tale signs that indicate you may have these rubbers on your vehicle and whether you should continue using them.
So, how can you identify if you have run-flat tyres?
Look In Your Boot
The most straightforward way to learn if you have run-flat tyres is to look in the boot. If you have a spare wheel in the back, it usually means you don’t have run-flats equipped.
Car manufacturers invented run-flat tyres to eliminate the need to lug a spare wheel around the whole time. You can drive them when punctured, so the need for an immediate replacement (to avoid getting stranded by the roadside) is lower. As such, vehicles equipped with them don’t need spare wheels as much.
Look At The Markings On The Tyre Side Wall
If you can’t get a clear answer from looking in the boot, you can also check the markings on your tyres’ sidewalls. These provide more information about the make, model and unit origin. Brands indicate whether a tyre is run flat in various ways. Goodyear, Bridgestone and Dunlop use “ROF” which stands for “Run on Flat.” The ROF labelling should appear embossed, and raised from the surrounding rubber.
Goodyear also has another run flat technology called EMT, which stands for Extended Mobility Technology. The company registered the trademark in 1990, along with ROF. You might also see some other acronyms including:
Lastly, Michelin and Yokohama tyres use ZP and ZPS, Japanese acronyms for the same thing. These function identically to the better-known European and North American brands.
All these markings mean the same thing. Running them on your car will give you about 50 miles of range to find a mechanic to repair the puncture. You shouldn’t drive on depressurised run-flats indefinitely as this can damage the tyre and lead to failure. Over time, the sidewalls can become fatigued without additional air pressure supporting them.
Check The Manufacturer’s Specification
Another tactic is to check the manufacturer’s specifications online. Car makers will usually list whether they offer run-flats on their vehicles. However, if your car is second-hand, going down this route might not provide an accurate answer. The previous owner might have swapped out the original run flats with standard alternatives.
Check Your Owner’s Manual
Finally, consult your owner's manual if you get really stuck (and can’t see any markings on your tyres). It usually has a section relating to the tyres supplied with your vehicle. Manufacturers will directly tell you if they are run flat, or provide you with a serial number you can cross-check online.
If your vehicle has run-flats, don’t replace them with standard tyres. Use OEM equipment where possible. Fitting a different tyre type could cause uneven wear or cause your car’s performance to differ from what the manufacturer intended.
Whether you should equip your vehicle with run-flat tyres is a personal choice. While they have some benefits, they also bring disadvantages. On the plus side, run-flat tyres are safe. Even if you get a puncture, you can run on them for fifty miles, allowing you to find your way home.
You also get extra room in your boot. Manufacturers don’t have to give up space beneath for a spare wheel and tyre. However, there are some negatives to be aware of. For instance, run-flats aren’t as easy to repair as standard rubber tyres. If you get a gash in the side wall or a large puncture, plugging them isn’t always an option.
The price is also higher. Run-flats often feature proprietary technology, allowing brands to ask for more money. Fortunately, you can still use mobile tyre fitting in London to replace run-flats. Here, mechanics come to your location to fix the problem, meaning you don’t need to worry about driving on an under inflated tyre.
Ultimately, run-flat tyres reduce the risk of needing to call vehicle recovery. Tyres continue functioning for long enough so you can drive yourself to get help.
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