Run-flats can be useful in many situations. Therefore, many car companies automatically equip their cars with them. However, there are many occasions where regular tires may be a better option.
But, can you safely replace run-flat tires with regular tires? Is the process the same as changing any tire, or is there anything specific you need to keep in mind? Keep reading to find out!
Can You Replace Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires?
You can replace run-flat tires with regular tires. However, it is essential that you follow manufacturer guidelines and choose tires that are the same size as the original. Furthermore, some internal programming may need to be changed to accommodate standard tires. Luckily, this change can be accomplished on most vehicles.
Keep reading for more about whether different brands can run standard tires, as well as how to make the switch!
Can You Mix Run-Flats with Conventional Tires?
Preferably, you should never mix your run-flats with conventional tires. In many cases, this mixture won’t cause a problem upfront. However, the tires will perform differently in different situations, which can lead to handling difficulties.
For instance, some of your tires may grip better in certain situations than others. Often, this situation is worse than your tires not gripping at all.
In fact, mixing tires is not recommended at all. Preferably, all your tires should be the same type of tire and around the same age for maximum safety. Otherwise, you risk running into problems.
With that said, mixing tire brands and tread patterns is one thing. Mixing tire types is completely different and often more dangerous.
With different tire types, you can end up with imbalance handling and uneven tire wear.
Therefore, I only recommend mixing tires in an emergency and temporary fixes. However, you should only drive the minimum amount on these mixed tires.
If you have to mix tires, be sure that they are the same size and meet the requirements of the vehicle.
Does Replacing Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires Affect the Ride?
Changing one type of tire to another type of tire will always affect the vehicle’s handling and other features. However, whether this change is very noticeable varies.
Generally, you’ll get better performance from regular tires. If you’re concerned only with the quality of your ride, then you probably want to use conventional tires.
However, run-flat tires obviously work best after running over nails or another puncturing hazard. Many run-flat tires can run for 50 to 100 miles after being punctured. Therefore, you often don’t need to stop and change them.
With that milage, you can often make it to a tire repair shop.
On the one hand, run-flat tires won’t fail you if you run something over. However, on the other hand, they tend to have a bit harsher ride. Their sidewalls are harder, which affects how hard the ride is.
Which option you choose largely depends on your preferences and intentions.
Can You Replace BMW Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires?
You can easily switch out your run-flat tires with regular tires on your BMW. Each type of tire has its own benefit and drawbacks, so you will need to consider carefully which type you need.
However, BMW models that come with run-flat tires can drive with regular tires as well. The car itself will not undergo a drop in performance or anything of that sort.
Can You Replace Mercades Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires?
As long as the tires are the same physical size, you can run regular tires on a Mercedes that originally had run-flat tires.
With that said, you should replace all four of the tires with regular tires. In other words, you shouldn’t replace only some of your tires with run-flat tires.
Can You Replace Audi Q7 Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires?
While Audi Q7s often come with run-flats, you can change them out with regular tires. In fact, many owners choose to do this, as your car’s handling will likely be much better.
Of course, the tires should be the same size. Otherwise, they will be unable to be used on the same wheel.
With that said, you should also consider what type of tire you need. Run-flats can be useful in some situations – even if they aren’t terribly great at handling.
How Do You Replace Run-Flat Tires with Regular Tires?
Replacing run-flat tires with regular tires isn’t always super straightforward. Unlike replacing with the same type of tire, you may need to take some extra steps to ensure that your car runs smoothly.
Firstly, you’ll need to replace all four of your run-flat tires with regular tires. Of course, the new tires should meet all the manufacturer requirements of your car. Plus, they should also be the same size as your run-flat tires.
If you decide to use tires of different sizes, you’ll need to get new wheels.
Furthermore, you should also be aware of the benefits of run-flats before you decide not to purchase a new set. As the name suggests, these tires do not rely on air pressure to maintain their shape and capabilities.
Therefore, they can drive for a short distance after being punctured. However, they cannot run forever after a puncture. Instead, they’ll only designed to run for a short distance.
At the same time, standard tires often provide better handling. However, they are less safe, since they can easily be punctured and fail if you run something over.
Furthermore, with run-flat tires, you don’t have to worry about changing a flat tire on the fly. Therefore, most tires that come with run-flats are not equipped for these sorts of emergencies. Sometimes, the cars may not even have room for a spare tire.
After all, they don’t need a spare if they can’t get flat tires.
Therefore, be sure you stock your car with the correct equipment after changing to standard tires. For instance, be sure to add a spare tire, rim, wheel, and hand jack to your car’s trunk.
If your car doesn’t have room for a spare tire, you may need to rethink switching to standard tires.
In some vehicles, alarms and internal programs may be affected when you change to conventional tires. In some cases, these things can be reprogrammed, though this typically costs more money.
In other cases, it may be difficult or even impossible to change these alarms. Of course, you can always disable them, but this may affect the safety of your car.
When changing to standard tires, the most important thing to remember is to choose tires that meet your car’s requirements. If you go to a professional, they can often point you in the correct direction.
If you are looking to learn more, you can also see our posts on how long do run-flat tires last, how long do spare tires last, and why are tires made of rubber.
Conclusion
There are several benefits to run-flat tires. However, in some circumstances, you may want to change your run-flats to standard tires.
Luckily, changing default run-flats is often straightforward and simple. You need to ensure that you get the correct standard tire, but that’s about all the prep work required.
Generally, working with a professional will help ensure that the switch goes by easily.