TyreSafe Punctures Practice of Replacing Run-Flats with Standard Tyres

TyreSafe has warned motorists that replacing their vehicle’s run-flat tyres with standard tyres could pose a safety hazard. The tyre safety organisation is concerned that attempts to reduce vehicle maintenance costs by selecting tyres which do not incorporate the added technology and features found in run-flat tyre could lead to drivers inadvertently yet significantly changing the handling characteristics of their vehicle, increasing the chance of being involved in an accident.

“When replacing run-flat tyres, it’s very important that drivers consult with the vehicle manufacturer if they are thinking about using non run-flat tyres,” commented TyreSafe chairman Stuart Jackson. “As a general rule, we would always recommend that drivers only replace run-flat tyres with a similar product. Run-flats have much stiffer sidewalls than those in traditional tyres and this is taken into account by vehicle manufacturers when they design their suspension and steering systems. By switching to tyres that do not use run-flat technology, the handling of the car can be dramatically altered and it may become unsafe, particularly during extreme manoeuvres.”

In addition to the performance changes that may occur as a result of switching to non run-flat tyres, drivers can also cause themselves other problems. As cars fitted with run-flats as original equipment do not have a spare tyre, drivers changing over to standard tyres could easily become stranded if they suffer a puncture.