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Replacing Run Flat Tyres with Regular Tyres: What Will Happen?


Over time tyres wear out naturally and eventually need to be replaced. In some cases, tyres need to be replaced due to their age, worn out, or aren’t suited for your driving style anymore. This goes for run flat Car Tyres Stoke On Trent too, which now comes standard on 14% of new vehicles selling on the market as per the Edmunds data.

If you currently use a set of run-flat tyres on your car, you must be wondering if it is possible to replace these tyres with regular tyres.

In this blog post, we are going to talk about whether it is possible to replace run-flat tyres with regular tyres. We will also discuss the pros and cons of using both tyres. If you are interested in knowing more about run-flat tyres then keep reading.

What Are Run Flat Tyres?

Run flat tyres are designed differently to allow you to continue driving even after a puncture. Nowadays, the most common design for car tyres is a self-supporting run-flat tyre. 

Run flat tyres are constructed with heat-resistant rubber and have a reinforced sidewall that supports your vehicle's weight even after the tyre starts losing air pressure. This will let you drive for a short distance at a limited speed of up to 50 miles per hour, so you can get to the nearest garage or pull over to a safe place to put on your spare tyre.

There are different types of run-flat tyres available, one of them is a support-ring run-flat tyre. This type of tyre has a ring of hard rubber or other material around the rim that supports the vehicle’s weight if there is low to no air pressure in the tyres. These tyres are usually found on heavy-duty and military vehicles.

A similar tyre category is a self-sealing tyre. These tyres have an extra lining under the tread with a puncture sealant solution. When the tyre is punctured, the sealant releases automatically to fill the hole and stop the air escaping from the tyre. But, all tyres will wear out over time. But the question is, is it okay to swap your run-flat tyres with regular tyres?

Can I Replace The Run Flats with Regular Tyres?

Yes, It is possible to replace run-flat tyres with regular tyres. But if you do choose to swap out your run-flat tyres for regular tyres, you need to know a few things to keep in mind.

When you switch your run-flat tyres with regular tyres, you should replace all four tyres at once. Using both run flats and regular tyres should only be done for a short period because run-flat tyres are much stiffer than regular tyres. Mixing both tyres can significantly reduce vehicle stability and handling. 

There are different types of run-flat tyres available, one of them is a support-ring run-flat tyre. This type of tyre has a ring of hard rubber or other material around the rim that supports the vehicle’s weight if there is low to no air pressure in the tyres. These tyres are usually found on heavy-duty and military vehicles.

When you choose the new tyres, ensure to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for size, load capacity, speed rating, and the right pressure. Most vehicles that are equipped with run-flat tyres usually don’t have a spare tyre and tyre changing kit. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for guidance and implications for your specific vehicle and tyres.

Pros and Cons of Run Flat Tyres & Regular Tyres

Pros:

  • You don’t need to require roadside tyre changes or wait for a tow truck. Runflats allow you to drive on low or flat tyres so that you can reach the nearest tyre shop. 
  • In the situation of tyre puncture, run flats offer safer handling and control than regular tyres. The reinforced sidewall offers more stability and consistency throughout the journey.
  • You have more space in the truck so that you can store other things. Since most vehicles equipped with run flats do not come with a spare tyre you have lower weight and more space.

Cons:

  • Run flats cost more compared to regular tyres.
  • Due to the stiff sidewalls on run-flat tyres, regular tyres offer a quieter and smoother ride.
  • Regular tyres usually have a longer tread life compared to run-flat tyres.
  • Vehicles that are equipped with run-flat tyres do not come with a spare tyre or tyre-changing kit. So if your run flats are totally damaged then you are unable to move your vehicle. 

Can A Run Flat Tyre Be Repaired?

There is not a straightforward answer, it depends on how bad the damage is on the Tyres of Stoke On Trent. If the puncture is in the shoulder or the sidewall or if the tyre has been repaired many times already, you will need to replace it with new ones. Some run-flat tyres are not repairable at all, and you need to replace them. 

Conclusion

These tyres are also mentioned on their side, saying “Do Not Repair.” In general run flats are not repairable because they are driven for too long with little to no air pressure. If you think that your run-flat tyres have minor damages and can be repairable, then you can use a good mobile tyre fitting service to get your tyres fixed.