What are run-flat tyres?
How does it work?
Tyres made using the technology called RunFlat have sidewalls strong and stiff enough to carry the car’s weight even once the pressure inside the tyre has dropped to match the outside air. There is a limit, though: on a deflated run-flat tyre you can drive at up to 80 km/h and for up to 80 km. According to the makers, the tyre remains fit for further use after vulcanising and inflating it back to the correct pressure.
Are run-flat tyres safe?
At first glance these tyres look like the perfect replacement for classic ones, and you might not even think twice - except that the price, frankly, “bites”. But if you look at the situation properly and weigh up every nuance, things turn out to be rather less rosy.
What is aquaplaning?Tyre makers and sellers never stop frightening motorists with every means available with that scary word - aquaplaning. And in the fight to save you from it, they will not spare a penny.
Date of manufacture of a tyreWhen buying new tyres, you must always check the date of manufacture of each one. Sadly, Ukrainian buyers are often sold last year’s tyres (if not older) at the price of new ones.
Cross-ply and radial tyresWhat is the difference between cross-ply tyres and radial tyres?
Speed rating, load index, and tyre season markings againA tyre’s speed rating and load index are figures you must pay attention to when buying. The speed rating limits your maximum speed, and the load index shows the maximum weight of the car that can…
Rules for fitting a tyre to a wheelMany modern tyres have a directional tread pattern; some tyres also need to go on with a particular sidewall facing outwards, and some can only be fitted on the left or right side of the car.
Uneven tread wear on a tyreA proper check of part-worn tyres before you buy will help you work out how evenly the tread has worn across its full width.
Speed rating, load index, and tyre season markings againA tyre’s speed rating and load index are figures you must pay attention to when buying. The speed rating limits your maximum speed, and the load index shows the maximum weight of the car that can…
Rules for fitting a tyre to a wheelMany modern tyres have a directional tread pattern; some tyres also need to go on with a particular sidewall facing outwards, and some can only be fitted on the left or right side of the car.
Uneven tread wear on a tyreA proper check of part-worn tyres before you buy will help you work out how evenly the tread has worn across its full width.