Are run flat tyres more susceptible to sidewall damage?

My BMW 428i Convertible has just completed 30K miles - I "celebrated" by buying the 4th & 5th new run flat tyres - all of which have been replaced due to damaged sidewalls. I have never hit any obstruction, it seems that the tyres cannot deal with current driving conditions. In over 50 years of car ownership I have never replaced a tyre with a damaged sidewall on any other car. Is this a common problem? Can I fit conventional tyres to the current wheels?

Asked on 30 May 2023 by Steve Wickenden

Answered by David Ross

Run flat tyres have stiffer sidewalls to prevent deflation in the event of a puncture, but the result of this can be that they are less capable of dealing with bumps and potholes as they lack the same flexibility as regular tyres.

You can fit conventional tyres to your car without any problems, although you may want to invest in a tyre repair kit or better still, a spare wheel and associated tools to deal with a possible puncture.

Tags: runflat tyres tyres

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