Run Flat Tires

[Lexus88]

I had heard that run flat tires do not handle road imperfections as well as regular tires.  I have a new 2022 UX 250H and I can attest that what I heard is correct.

Has anyone changed to normal tires for a smoother ride?

[RX400h]

When my OEM run-flat tires wore out on my 2001 Corvette, I switched over to non-run-flat tires. The ride was smoother but steering response was not as sharp. To me it doesn't make sense to swap out new tires but when it's time to replace them, non-runflats tend to be less costly.

I did add a small compressor, flat repair kit, pliers, and a mat, just in case a flat tire occurred. Some people keep a can of tire sealant in their trunk, also.

[Lexus88]

Thanks for the feedback, I'll keep that in mind.  I wonder why the steering response would be different unless the tire size was different, or the tire pressure or the compound (Formula 1 has 3 different compounds) or a combination of the three?

Edited March 15, 2022 by Lexus88
Added some info

[RX400h]

The sidewalls of runflat tires have to be much stiffer to allow the tires to be able to have zero air pressure and continue to rotate without safety issues. That extra stiffness is what "sharpens" the steering response.

[MAPfromCharleston]

I have a 2024 a UX 250 and have the same question but for different reasons. The contractors here leave things everywhere. I use the low roads not the highways and don’t drive much, but have had to replace 2 run flats in under a year as Lexus won’t repair them- screws/ nails lodged in them. This is getting expensive. Is there a mini donut that fits in the micro trunk compartment under the back ?

[frenchie1962]

I’ve stayed with The run flat tires and just changed them the first time at 50,000 miles.   I get an incredibly smooth ride with these tires and also have had to replace one tire due to a nail.    The problem is if you replace them with regular tires, there’s no place to put a spare.

[McBrian]

You got 50K out of a set of run-flats? That is pretty impressive and rare (at least in my experience)

I've bever been able to justify the cost vs mileage so like mentioned there are great "regular" tires available but you have to prepare for repairs with your support kit. Easily integrated into a SHTF bag.

[MAPfromCharleston]

I find this truly amazing as I had to replace 3 in the first year. This includes believe it or now having run over an Allen wrench. Who needs to replace a tire from an Allen wrench and what was it doing on a main road🤷‍♀️

[McBrian]

Anything can be on the road and pop a tire. Just hoping the replacements were under some sort of roadhazard for you!