Automakers have been relentless in their pursuit of improved driver safety. Most of us think of driver safety with regard to lane change warning systems, smart cruise control, and similar technologies. Our wheels receive little to no attention. Run-flat tires help keep motorists safe by preventing their being stranded with a blowout.
They debuted in the early 1990s on Corvettes. Unfortunately, because the wheels were expensive and required costly pressure-monitoring systems, they failed to penetrate the broad automotive market. Car manufacturers have since discovered opportunities to lower production costs. They have been able to offer the technology to consumers for a price far lower than what was possible a decade ago.
In this article, I'll explain how run-flats work and how their pressure is monitored. I'll also describe the pros and cons of using this type of tire.
How Pressure Is Monitored
Run-flat tires are designed with powerful sidewalls which can support your vehicle even in the event of a puncture. This type of wheel is resistant to deflation. Because they can support your car, they all but eliminate the need to pull over to the side of the road and install a spare. The challenge is knowing when a puncture or blowout has occurred.
Two different systems are used to monitor the pressure: direct and indirect. The former relies on a sensor and battery installed within each wheel. When the pressure declines, the sensor delivers an alert to your vehicle's instrument panel. The indirect monitoring system works a little differently. It relies on the sensors that are already integrated within your anti-lock brakes to monitor speed. If a variance in speed is identified, the sensor delivers a warning.
Advantages And Potential Drawbacks
First, the drawbacks. Though prices have declined over the last several years, run-flats are still relatively expensive. The technology that allows the sidewalls to support your vehicle is costly. So too, are the pressure-monitoring systems. Another disadvantage is that retrofitting them onto a vehicle that was once fitted with conventional tires can lead to a harsher ride. The impact of the road is more prevalent.
The advantages include improved driver safety (noted above) and not needing to stock a spare. Because these tires prevent a blowout or puncture from stranding you, there's no need to carry the spare. That translates into less travel weight, which increases your car's fuel efficiency.
How Much Will It Cost?
Current prices for retrofitting an older vehicle vary. The systems used to monitor the wheel pressure can cost up to $400 (that includes having the system installed). The tires range in price between $150 and $400, depending upon the brand and quality. Given that they should last four to five years, the investment in your safety may be worthwhile.
Run-flats will likely become an industry standard. That means prices will continue to plummet and over the next several years, a growing number of vehicles will have them installed at the factory.
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