Can Your Run-Flat Tyres Be Repaired If Damaged?

Run-flat tyres are highly popular amongst motorists for their many benefits but can they be repaired if punctured or cracked? In this article, we are going to look at what run-flat tyres are and how and if they can be repaired.

So what are run-flat tyres?

Run-flat tyres perform differently due to conventional tyres due to their qualities and the way they are designed. A conventional tyre will deflate if it gets punctured, whereas run-flat tyres are developed with a reinforced shoulder that allows the tyre to continue carrying the weight of the car whilst driving for a limited distance. This way, the driver can continue to drive for up to 50 miles at 50mph to ensure they can get to safety or to a professional where their tyre can be sorted. Conventional tyres in the case of a puncture will cause the vehicle to lose control and risks the wheel detaching from the rim, causing damage to the alloy. 

How do run-flat tyres work?

Run-flat technology enables the vehicle to keep running after a puncture or sudden air loss. The tyre possesses a highly resilient rubber insert that can support the tyre even when the air pressure no longer can. Alongside the run-flat technology, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is a necessary part of the run-flat package as it is able to alert the driver if a tyre has lost inflation. 

Can run-flat tyres be repaired?

Some run-flat tyres such as Goodyear run-flat tyres are able to be repaired by a professional but only after a thorough inspection and analysis of the history of the tyre. However, a lot of run-flat tyres are not repairable once a puncture has occurred. In case there is any doubt as to whether the run-flat tyre should be repaired or not, it is advised to get the tyre replaced every time. Run-flat tyres may only have one repair in their lifetime, however, all repair work is ultimately down to the discretion and responsibility of the tyre professional. 

Although Goodyear run-flat tyres can sometimes be repaired, there are times when even these should not be repaired and replaced instead. This includes:

• If the repair needs to be carried out outside of the tread area
• If any of the sidewall areas is damaged inside or outside of the tyre by a sharp object which could reduce the support insert – sustainability reduces the distance and lifespan of the tyre.
• Tyres that have been driven at a low or zero pressure for a substantial distance.
• If the tyre has inner liner damage or a rough appearance. 
• Any excessive damage that would make a standard tyre unrepairable.

etyres stocks an array of run-flat tyres from varying brands, including Michelin, Bridgestone,Goodyear and more that are all suitable for any vehicle and manufacturer.