In Sydney and Need Puncture Repair Advice about Run-flat tyre Repairs? Call 1800 79 79 77
Getting a flat tyre can ruin your day — unless you’re driving on Run Flat Tyres (RFTs). These specially designed tyres are made to keep you moving even after a puncture, but they come with important limits. In this guide, we’ll explain what RFTs are, when you should keep driving, and when you should call for help.
🔍 What Are Run Flat Tyres (RFTs)?
Run Flat Tyres (RFTs) are tyres that allow you to continue driving for a short distance after losing air pressure — even if they’re completely flat.
They’re designed with:
- Reinforced sidewalls that can temporarily support your vehicle’s weight
- Special heat-resistant rubber to prevent blowouts
- A limited range (usually 80km) at a reduced speed (typically max 80km/h)
They eliminate the need for a spare tyre and give you time to reach a safe location or a nearby tyre shop — instead of being stranded on the roadside.
📚 Other Names for Run Flat Tyres
Run Flat Tyres might be listed under different terms, depending on the manufacturer:
- RFT – Run Flat Tyre
- ROF – Run On Flat
- ZP – Zero Pressure (Michelin, Continental)
- SSR – Self Supporting Runflat (Continental)
- EMT – Extended Mobility Tyre (Goodyear)
- DSST – Dunlop Self-Supporting Technology
Always check your tyre’s sidewall or owner’s manual for these markings if you’re not sure.
✅ When Can You Drive on a Run Flat Tyre?
You can continue driving safely for up to 80 km at a speed of no more than 80 km/h, only if:
- The puncture is minor and doesn’t cause the tyre to shred
- You haven’t hit a kerb or pothole that may have damaged the wheel
- The tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is alerting you — don’t ignore it!
This gives you enough time to get to a tyre shop or call for mobile tyre assistance.
❌ When Shouldn’t You Drive on a Run Flat Tyre?
You should not keep driving on a run flat tyre if:
- You’ve driven more than 80km already after the puncture
- You’re hearing flapping, thumping, or feel vibrations
- The sidewall looks torn, cracked, or overly bulged
- You don’t have TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system) — you may not know the tyre is flat!
- You’ve hit a gutter or pothole and there is a large section of the tyre missing or torn
Driving too long or too fast on a run flat can cause wheel damage, loss of control, and expensive repairs. If there’s visible damage or the tyre looks shredded — don’t risk it. Call for help.
🔍 Quick Tyre Inspection Checklist – Is It Safe to Drive on Your RFT?
Before continuing your journey, take a moment to check these key things:
✅ TPMS Warning Active?
Is your tyre pressure monitoring system showing a low or flat tyre alert?
✅ Tyre Still Holding Shape?
Does the tyre still look round and firm, or is it visibly flat or sagging?
✅ No Large Tears or Chunks Missing?
Check the sidewalls and tread — if you’ve hit a pothole or gutter and a section is missing, DO NOT DRIVE.
✅ No Flapping or Thumping Noises?
Unusual sounds or vibrations usually mean internal damage — stop driving.
✅ Haven’t Driven Too Far or Too Fast?
Stick to under 80km at speeds no more than 80km/h after a flat starts — anything more can destroy the tyre.
✅ Can’t Decide?
When in doubt, play it safe — call Auto Hero Roadside Assistance.
🛠️ What to Do if Your Run Flat Tyre Goes Flat in Sydney
If your RFT goes flat, and you’re unsure whether it’s safe to keep driving — call Auto Hero Roadside Assistance. Our team can:
- Inspect the tyre condition on-site
- Help you determine if it’s still driveable
- Supply a loaner wheel or spare tyre if the RFT is too damaged
- Advise on proper repair or replacement
⚠️ Tip: Run Flat Tyres Often Can’t Be Repaired
Most tyre shops and manufacturers don’t recommend repairing run flat tyres once they’ve been driven on while flat. The sidewalls may have sustained hidden damage — making replacement the safer option.
However, in some limited cases, a run flat tyre may be repairable. Here are the general rules for repair:
- The puncture must be caused by a small object, like a nail or screw.
- The puncture must be within the tread area, not on the sidewall.
- The tyre must be in legal roadworthy condition (not worn past tread limits).
- The tyre must not have been driven on while flat — even for a short distance.
- The damage must be professionally inspected and repaired using a proper plug/patch method.
If you’re unsure, always err on the side of caution and get expert advice before continuing to drive.
📞 Need Help with a Run Flat Tyre? Call Auto Hero on 1800 79 79 77
If you’re in Sydney and not sure whether to keep driving or need tyre help now, call the experts at Auto Hero Roadside Assistance. We come to you fast, carry the right tools, and know how to handle run flat tyres properly.
