Run-flat tires are expensive; a replacement P-Zero costs over $420 with labor and taxes. In my case, the repair cost was not covered by BMW, and while Pirelli has its own warranty, it's conditional.

There are two kinds of run-flat tires that are generally available, and they work in slightly different ways. A "self-supporting" tire's name describes its construction and function pretty well.

And so it was with the earliest iterations of run flat tyres (or run flat tires, for our American cousins). The idea was golden; tyres that, when punctured, didn’t immediately require changing, ...

Pros and Cons of Run-Flat Tires. Run-flat tires can be a significant benefit and prevent unsafe situations with roadside repairs, but they aren’t perfect and aren’t the best for every driver. The ...

I have ordered a new BMW X5 which only comes with run-flat tyres on 20-inch rims and an emergency inflatable spare. I like the car but I think the ride quality is compromised. The dealer is happy ...

I have ordered a new BMW X5 which only comes with run-flat tyres on 20-inch rims and an emergency inflatable spare. I like the car but I think the ride quality is compromised. The dealer is happy ...

I have ordered a new BMW X5 which only comes with run-flat tyres on 20-inch rims and an emergency inflatable spare. I like the car but I think the ride quality is compromised. The dealer is happy ...

See our run-flat report to learn more about on the pros and cons of run-flat tires. For Ratings, recommendations and buying advice on car, truck and winter tires, see our tires section.

And with a stiffer sidewall, run flat tires ride noticeably more harshly than standard tires. Each buyer will have to weigh the pros and cons, and decide if the premium is worth the payoff.

I have ordered a new BMW X5 which only comes with run-flat tyres on 20-inch rims and an emergency inflatable spare. I like the car but I think the ride quality is compromised. The dealer is happy ...