Run-Flat Tyres in Mitcham: Drive Safely for 50 Miles After a Puncture

No more dangerous roadside tyre changes. Discover the ultimate in puncture safety and convenience with our expert run-flat tyre services.
Whether you’re on a busy motorway, in an unsafe area, or simply in bad weather, a puncture no longer means a dangerous roadside stop. Run-flat tyres allow you to continue driving to a safe location, giving you complete peace of mind.

The Technology That Keeps You Moving<span.

Run-flat tyres are engineered with one critical difference: reinforced sidewalls that support your vehicle even when the tyre is completely deflated.

Run-Flat Tyres (RFTs) are tyres engineered with heavily reinforced sidewalls. When a conventional tyre suffers a puncture, it deflates rapidly, and the vehicle’s weight collapses the sidewalls completely. This makes the tyre undrivable and forces you to stop immediately—often in dangerous or inconvenient locations.
When a run-flat tyre is punctured, its super-strong sidewalls continue to support the vehicle’s weight, even with zero air pressure.
This allows you to continue driving for a limited distance (typically up to 50 miles) at a reduced maximum speed (usually 50 mph). This gives you enough range to reach home, a garage, or a safe location without having to change the wheel on the roadside.

All vehicles fitted with run-flat tyres from the factory also have a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that alerts you immediately when a tyre loses pressure, so you know to drive cautiously and seek assistance.

Comparison diagram showing conventional tyre collapse vs run-flat tyre support after punctur

Why Choose Run-Flat Tyres?

Three compelling reasons why premium vehicle manufacturers choose run-flat technology.

Enhanced Safety

The biggest benefit is safety. You can avoid dangerous roadside stops on busy motorways, in bad weather, or in unsafe areas. You also maintain full control of the vehicle during a sudden deflation, preventing the loss of control that can occur with a conventional tyre blowout. For families and lone drivers, this peace of mind is invaluable.

Uninterrupted Convenience

A puncture doesn’t have to ruin your day or your journey. You can continue driving to your destination, get home safely, or reach a professional garage like ours at a time that suits you—without having to stop and change a wheel in the rain, in the dark, or on a dangerous hard shoulder.

More Space & Less Weight

Vehicles designed for run-flat tyres do not carry a spare wheel, jack, or wheel brace. This frees up valuable boot space for luggage or shopping and reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, which can contribute to slightly improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Run-Flat Tyres: An Honest Assessment

At IQ Tyres, we believe in giving you all the facts so you can make an informed decision. Run-flat tyres offer significant benefits, but like any technology, they also have some trade-offs. Here is our honest assessment.

Comparison Table

Advantages
Disadvantages
✓ Enhanced Safety: No dangerous roadside changes, maintained control during deflation
✗ Firmer Ride: The stiff sidewalls can lead to a slightly harsher ride compared to conventional tyres
✓ Stability: Better vehicle control during a sudden blowout
✗ Higher Cost: RFTs are more expensive to purchase due to their complex construction
✓ Convenience: Continue driving after a puncture to reach a safe location
✗ Limited Repairability: Most manufacturers do not recommend repairing run-flat tyres after they have been driven on with zero pressure
✓ More Boot Space: No need for a spare wheel or tools
✗ Specialist Fitting: Require special equipment and expertise to fit and remove without damaging the tyre or wheel
✓ Reduced Weight: Lighter vehicle without spare wheel
✗ Availability: Fewer options available compared to conventional tyres

For many drivers, particularly those who drive premium vehicles, travel frequently on motorways, or prioritize safety and convenience, the immense benefits of run-flat tyres far outweigh the drawbacks. Modern RFTs have also improved significantly in ride comfort compared to earlier generations, and the difference is often barely noticeable on well-maintained roads.

Find the Right Run-Flat Tyres for Your Vehicle

We stock manufacturer-approved run-flat tyres for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Audi, and more.

All-Inclusive Pricing

All prices include:
•Expert fitting with specialist tyre-changing equipment
•TPMS sensor checks and recalibration
•Computerized wheel balancing
•New valve (if required)
•Eco-friendly disposal of your old tyres
Get Your Run-Flat Tyre Quote

Why Choose IQ Tyres for Your Run-Flats?

Fitting and removing run-flat tyres requires specialist knowledge and equipment. The ultra-stiff sidewalls can be easily damaged by incorrect techniques or standard tyre-changing machines, potentially costing you hundreds of pounds. Additionally, the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors must be handled correctly to avoid damage or calibration issues.

Our workshop is equipped with state-of-the-art tyre changers specifically designed for run-flat technology, and our technicians are fully trained in RFT fitting procedures. We ensure a perfect, damage-free fitting every time, protecting your investment and your safety.

 

Specialist Tyre Changers

Our equipment is designed to handle the stiff sidewalls of RFTs without damage. Standard tyre changers can crack or distort the reinforced sidewalls, but our specialist machines apply the correct pressure and technique for a perfect fit every time.

TPMS Expertise

We correctly handle and recalibrate TPMS sensors to ensure your warning system works perfectly. A faulty TPMS can leave you unaware of a puncture, defeating the entire purpose of run-flat technology.

Professional Puncture Repairs

Safe, legal puncture repairs that meet British Standards (BS AU 159). Every repair includes re-balancing of the wheel to ensure a smooth ride.

Supplying All Major Tyre Brands

As an independent garage, we can source and fit tyres from any brand to match your vehicle’s specifications and your budget. Whether you need premium performance tyres from Michelin or reliable budget options from Avon, we have the right solution for you. We’re not tied to any single manufacturer, so our advice is always honest and focused on your needs.

  • "I have taken several of the family cars here for the past several years and without exception the experiences have been outstanding. I would highly recommend this place to any one who wants great service, honest value, and really great people."

    ROBERT SMITH

  • "I have taken several of the family cars here for the past several years and without exception the experiences have been outstanding. I would highly recommend this place to any one who wants great service, honest value, and really great people."

    ROBERT SMITH

  • "I have taken several of the family cars here for the past several years and without exception the experiences have been outstanding. I would highly recommend this place to any one who wants great service, honest value, and really great people."

    ROBERT SMITH

Get a Competitive Quote for Your Tyres in Mitcham

Whether you need a single budget tyre or a full set of premium performance tyres, our team is ready to help. Contact us for a fast, no-obligation quote—we’ll match or beat any like-for-like quote from a local competitor.

Request a Quote Now

Or visit us at our garage on Carshalton Road, Mitcham—no appointment needed for tyre checks.

FAQ Items 

Q1: How do I know if I have run-flat tyres?

A:
Look for specific markings on the tyre sidewall. Different manufacturers use different codes: RFT (Bridgestone), SSR (Continental), ZP (Michelin), or ROF (Goodyear). Additionally, if your car does not have a spare wheel in the boot, it is almost certainly fitted with run-flat tyres from the factory.

Q2: Can I switch from run-flat tyres to conventional tyres?

A:
Yes, it is technically possible, but it’s an important decision to consider carefully. Your car’s suspension was specifically tuned by the manufacturer to work with the stiff sidewalls of run-flat tyres, so switching to conventional tyres may alter the handling characteristics. More importantly, you will lose the “get-home-safely” capability, so you will need to purchase a spare wheel or a tyre mobility kit (sealant and compressor). We can advise you on the best option for your vehicle.

Q3: How does my car know it has a puncture?

A:
All cars fitted with run-flat tyres from the factory have a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This system continuously monitors the air pressure in each tyre and will display a warning light on your dashboard as soon as it detects a significant loss of pressure, alerting you to drive cautiously and seek assistance.

Q4: Are run-flat tyres available in winter or all-season versions?

A:
Yes, many manufacturers now offer winter and all-season versions of their popular run-flat tyres. This gives you the combined benefit of seasonal performance (better grip in cold or snowy conditions) and run-flat safety. Ask our team for recommendations based on your vehicle and driving needs.

Q5: What happens if I drive more than 50 miles on a flat run-flat tyre?

A:
Driving beyond the recommended 50-mile limit or exceeding 50 mph can cause irreparable damage to the tyre and potentially to the wheel rim itself. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and seek professional assistance as soon as possible after a puncture.

Ready to Get Your Run-Flat Tyres Fitted?

Whether you need a replacement run-flat tyre or want to learn more about this technology, our specialist team is here to help. We stock a wide range of manufacturer-approved run-flat tyres and have the expertise and equipment to fit them perfectly.

Get Your Free Quote →

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