Run-flat tires allow you to continue driving after a puncture at reduced speeds, giving you the ability to drive to a workshop. The distance and speed that the tires can take after a puncture varies according to the make and weight of the car. You can usually recognize run-flat tires by looking at them, or by noticing other details of your car.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Check the Tires
Step 1. Look for the term "Run Flat" on the tires
Some run-flat tire manufacturers print the wording directly on the tire, making it easier for the owner to recognize them. For example, Pirelli uses this method.
Simply look for the words "Run Flat" on the sidewall of the tire, usually near manufacturer information and codes
Step 2. Search the tire for RFT, SSR or DSST codes
Bridgestone in some cases uses the RFT (Run Flat Tire) code to distinguish run-flat tires. Continental uses the code SSR (Self Supporting Run flat) and Dunlop DSST (Dunlop Self Supporting Tire).
Look for the codes on the sidewall of the tires, near other numbers and manufacturer information
Step 3. Look for ROF, EMT or ZP codes
Several brands use the Run On Flat (ROF) code on their run-flat tires, including Goodyear, Bridgestone and Dunlop. Goodyear also uses EMT (Extended Mobility Technology) for tires of this type. Some brands use ZP or ZPS (Zero Pressure or Zero Pressure System), including Michelin and Yokohama.
Look for these codes on the sidewall of the tires, near the manufacturer information
Method 2 of 2: Observe a Car with Original Tires
Step 1. Check the car owner's manual
The easiest way to find out if you have run-flat tires is to check your manual. If your car still has the original tires and they are run-flat, you will find everything you need to know about tires of this type and the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) system explained in the manual.
Step 2. Look for run-flat tires on newer models from specific manufacturers
These tires came on the market in the early 2000s. The newer your car, the more likely it is to have run-flat tires.
- Some manufacturers often use run-flat tires on their new models, especially BMW and Lexus. Toyota installs such tires on coupe and sedan models. If you have one of these cars with original tires, it's possible they are run-flat.
- BMWs are by far the most common cars with run-flat tires. If you have a recent BMW, your tires probably have this technology.
Step 3. Note if your car has a spare tire
Cars with stock run-flat tires do not have a spare tire. If you find a repair kit in the trunk, you may have run-flat tires.
If you are still unsure, ask your dealer or check the owner's manual
Step 4. Look for the tire pressure light in the driver's dashboard
Cars with run-flat tires also have the tire pressure control system. If the pressure is low, the light will come on to alert you to the problem.
