The average car travels over 14,000 miles a year, and that’s a lot of wear and tear on your tires. If you’re stuck with a flat tire while driving in hazardous conditions or through remote locations, you could find yourself in trouble. This is why run-flat tires were developed as a way to prevent disasters when a tire gets punctured. But, do Teslas come with run-flats?
Teslas don’t use run-flat tires from the factory. This is because Tesla wants to use the tires that’ll maximize the performance of each Model. You can still retrofit your Tesla with run-flat tires yourself after purchase if you are willing to sacrifice performance.
Are Tesla Tires Run-Flat?
Tesla tires are not classified as run-flat tires. While Tesla tires are designed to handle the weight of the car and provide a smooth ride, they are not specifically engineered to support the weight of the vehicle for an extended period without air pressure.
How to Identify Run-Flat Tires and Their Benefits
Run-flat tires have a reinforced sidewall that allows the tire to continue supporting the weight of the car even when it’s lost air pressure. This means that you can continue driving for a limited distance, usually around 50 miles, to reach a safe location or service center without having to stop and change the tire.
The main benefit of run-flat tires is added safety and convenience, especially if you’re driving in an area with limited service stations or if you have passengers who can’t change a tire on their own.
Tesla Models and Run-Flat Tires
While Tesla tires are not run-flat, some Tesla models offer run-flat tires as an optional feature. For example, the Tesla Model S and Model X offer the option to equip the car with run-flat tires from Goodyear or Pirelli.
However, it’s worth noting that run-flat tires may have some downsides, such as a stiffer ride and higher cost, compared to standard tires.
Tire Brands that Tesla Uses for Run-Flat Tires
If you’re considering equipping your Tesla with run-flat tires, it’s worth noting that Tesla uses several tire brands that offer run-flat tires, including:
- Goodyear: Goodyear offers several tire options with run-flat capabilities, including the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 ROF and the UltraGrip Performance SUV ROF.
- Pirelli: Pirelli also offers several run-flat tire options, including the P Zero Run Flat and the Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat.
Understanding Tesla Tires
As a Tesla owner, understanding your tires is critical for ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. Let’s explore some essential details about Tesla tires.
A Brief History of Tesla Cars and Their Tire Specifications
Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, offering some of the most advanced EVs on the market. The company has always emphasized safety and performance, which is reflected in their tire choices.
The first Tesla cars came with Continental tires, but the company now uses several tire brands, including Michelin and Goodyear. Tesla selects tire brands based on their durability, performance, and efficiency.
The Different Types of Tires Tesla Uses for Their Models
Tesla offers different tire options depending on the model, wheel size, and driving preferences. The standard tires on the Model 3, for example, are 18-inch all-season tires, while the Model S and X come with 19-inch all-season tires.
Tesla also offers performance tires, which provide enhanced grip and handling, but with a shorter lifespan. It’s important to choose tires that suit your driving needs, taking into account your driving style, weather conditions, and driving environment.
The Characteristics and Benefits of Tesla Tires
Tesla’s tires are specially designed for electric vehicles, which have unique characteristics that traditional gasoline-powered vehicles do not have. For example, EVs are heavier due to their battery, which can cause more wear and tear on the tires.
Tesla’s tires are designed to handle this extra weight, providing a smoother ride and longer lifespan.
Tesla’s tires also have a low rolling resistance, which means they require less energy to move the car forward. This feature helps improve the car’s energy efficiency, extending the battery life and reducing energy consumption.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Tesla Tires
One of the most common misconceptions about Tesla’s tires is that they are run-flat tires. However, this is not entirely true. While Tesla’s tires are specially designed to support the weight of the car, they are not classified as run-flat tires.
Another misconception is that Tesla cars come with a spare tire. However, there is no spare tire included with a Tesla car. Instead, Tesla provides a tire repair kit that can help repair small punctures in the tire.
In the event of a more severe flat, Tesla owners can contact roadside assistance, which is free for the duration of the battery warranty.
Repair Options for Flat Tesla Tires
No matter how careful you are on the road, flat tires can happen. In this section, we’ll discuss the various options for repairing or replacing a flat tire on a Tesla car.
Tesla Roadside Assistance Program vs. Traditional Roadside Assistance Services
One of the perks of owning a Tesla car is the included Tesla Roadside Assistance program. This program provides 24/7 assistance for flat tires, dead batteries, and other emergencies.
When you call Tesla Roadside Assistance, they will dispatch a technician to your location to assess and potentially repair your tire.
Alternatively, you can also use traditional roadside assistance services, such as AAA or other similar services. However, these services may not be as familiar with electric vehicles, so it’s important to inform them that you have a Tesla and that they should take extra care when towing or servicing your car.
How to Use the Tire Repair Kit that Comes with Tesla Cars
If you experience a small puncture in your tire, you may be able to repair it with the tire repair kit that comes with Tesla cars. Here’s how to use the kit:
- Locate the tire repair kit, which is typically located in the trunk of the car.
- Remove the kit from its packaging and read the instructions carefully.
- Attach the kit’s air compressor to your car’s tire valve.
- Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
- Attach the kit’s sealant canister to the tire valve and inject the sealant into the tire.
- Drive the car for a short distance to allow the sealant to distribute inside the tire.
- Check the tire pressure and adjust if necessary.
It’s important to note that the tire repair kit is only suitable for small punctures and may not be effective for larger or more severe damage to the tire.
Options for Purchasing a Spare Tire for a Tesla Car
One of the unique features of Tesla cars is that they do not come with a spare tire. Instead, they rely on the tire repair kit or roadside assistance for flat tire situations.
However, if you prefer the added security of having a spare tire, you can purchase one from a third-party provider. Some Tesla owners have reported success using spare tires designed for other electric vehicles, such as the BMW i3.
It’s important to note that adding a spare tire to your Tesla car may take up additional storage space in the trunk or frunk, so it’s important to consider the space available before making a purchase.
Are you hungry for more Pro Tips that will take your driving experience to the next level? Head over to our Tesla Pro Tips page, where you’ll find all of our summarized tips in one convenient spot.
Is it Possible to Install Run-Flat Tires on a Tesla?
Tesla owners can put run-flat tires on their vehicles as long as they fit the size and weight of the car, however, Tesla spends a significant amount of time and effort researching and selecting the best tires for each model, with some models even receiving tire changes when better ones become available.
Run-flat tires may impact the driving experience and performance of the car, and are recommended for city driving rather than freeway use. A related article on the best tire repair kits for Tesla models is also available.
Pros and Cons of Run Flats
Run-flat tires are specially designed to keep running even if they’ve been punctured, providing a level of safety and convenience for drivers.
However, these tires also come with certain trade-offs in terms of ride comfort, fuel efficiency, and overall safety. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of run-flat tires.
Pros:
- Safety: One of the biggest advantages of run-flat tires is that they allow drivers to continue driving even after a puncture. This can be especially useful in emergency situations or when driving in remote locations.
- Convenience: Run-flat tires eliminate the need for a spare tire or tire repair kit, saving space in the vehicle and reducing the risk of getting stranded with a flat tire.
For more information about the pros and cons of run-flat tires, watch the 6-minute YouTube video below:
Cons:
- Ride Comfort: Run-flat tires can be less comfortable to drive on than regular tires. This is because they are designed to be stiffer and more rigid, which can lead to a rougher ride.
- Fuel Efficiency: Run-flat tires can also have a negative impact on fuel efficiency, as they are typically heavier than regular tires and require more energy to move.
- Safety: Run-flat tires are designed to be driven on even after a puncture, but they can’t be driven on for long distances. This means that if you have a flat tire, you can only drive for a limited distance (around 50-80 miles) before needing to replace the tire.
- Cost: Run-flat tires can be more expensive than regular tires and may require replacement more frequently.
You can use this online Tesla tire calculator to find how long any Tesla Model tire will last. You can also estimate the number of miles left on your current set and how many days you have until they need to be swapped out for new ones. If that is the case, you can also find the price for any set of Tesla tires by selecting the appropriate tires. Have fun!
Tire Options for All Tesla Models
While the Tesla Model 3 comes with three tire options as stock from the factory, the other Tesla models have different options. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the tire options available for each Tesla model.
Tesla’s focus on high-performance and sleek design is likely the reason they don’t provide run-flat tires as an option for their vehicles. If you experience unwanted vibrations while driving, it could be due to foam inside the tires, which can be replaced at a Tesla service center.
Model S
The Tesla Model S comes with two tire options: the Michelin Pilot Super Sport 245/35 ZR21 and the Continental SportContact 5 245/35 R21. Both options are high-performance tires designed to deliver exceptional grip and handling in both dry and wet conditions.
They also come at a higher price. These tires are specially designed to be tubeless tires which means that they do not have an inner tube and therefore they are more resistant to punctures.
Model X
The Tesla Model X comes with two tire options: the Michelin Primacy MXM4 245/45 R19 and the Continental CrossContact LX Sport 245/45 R19.
Both options are all-season tires that are designed to provide a balance of performance and high-quality comfort.
These tires are specially designed to be tubeless tires which means that they do not have an inner tube and therefore they are more resistant to punctures.
Model Y
The Tesla Model Y comes with two tire options: the Michelin Primacy Tour 245/45 R19 and the Continental CrossContact LX Sport 245/45 R19. Both options are all-season tires that are designed to provide a balance of performance and comfort.
These tires are specially designed to be tubeless tires which means that they do not have an inner tube and therefore they are more resistant to punctures.
FAQs
Check out these 20 great gift ideas for yourself or a Tesla fanboy.
Contact Us if you have any questions or queries.
