Run-flat tires: are they actually worth it or a scam?

The most important thing: run-flat tires aren't a scam, but they're not the perfect solution for everyone either. It really depends on how you drive and how much you're willing to spend for the convenience. They cost more (30-40% more, even), wear out faster, and give you a slightly stiffer ride compared to normal tires. But the real advantage is that if you get a puncture, you can keep driving for about 20 km at reduced speed without having to change the tire on the roadside.

So are they actually worth it? It depends on your situation. If you do a lot of highway miles alone and don't always have the chance to stop quickly - like if you're often in isolated areas - they're convenient and they'll keep you from panicking. If you mainly drive in the city and always have a tire shop nearby, you're probably just throwing money away. A lot of people have never even used run-flats and they're doing fine with normal tires and an emergency repair.

One thing that doesn't always get mentioned: run-flats need genuinely good quality tires to actually work as promised, and careful maintenance. If you buy the cheapest models or don't check your tire pressure regularly, you lose the advantages. So before you go for them, think honestly about whether they're really worth it economically for your driving style. And check that your car is compatible, because not all cars work well with run-flats.