Damnnn . . . Flat in the middle of nowhere . . . Probably my Model 3 tires are run flat … I’ll look it up!
If you are under or expect to be under somewhat-similar circumstances, I have the exact information you need, along with some actionable suggestions that can put you out of your misery.
Without further ado, let’s hop into it.
Are Tesla Model 3 Tires Run Flat?
Sorry to burst the bubble, but NO, the Model 3 does not come with run-flat tires! So if you’ve got a flat, you’re pretty much stuck.
Is Tesla planning to install run-flat tires in the Model 3 or other Teslas soon? Nope! The reason? We’ll discuss it later in the article.
Can You Put Run-Flat Tires on Tesla Model 3? What Are the Pros and Cons?
A one-liner answer to this query is “yes.” If the dimensions of the run-flat tires go with the dimensions of your Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S, you can put them on your vehicle.
Though “yes” is the answer to this question, there is still an unsettling confusion on whether these tires are as good as Tesla OEM tires, or, in other words, should you actually replace your original tires with run-flat tires?
Since run-flat tires allow drivers to continue driving even if they get a flat, most owners get sold just because of this single advantage. But when the vehicle in question is the Tesla Model 3, this single advantage will bring a number of nasty cons:
❌ They make the ride a little tougher than the casual.
❌ Handling a car becomes quite arduous
❌ They are about 20%–25% heavier than traditional tires.
❌ You’ll experience a considerable loss in performance.
❌ They are really expensive.
❌ They get worn out quickly.
❌ They are difficult to find.
Tesla engineers spend a hell of a time selecting the most suitable tire for their vehicle, but still, you are free to use any tire that goes along with the size and weight of your vehicle.
Tesla has its own think tank that critically focuses on improving efficiency, and they are also not reluctant to change either. For instance, one such example is the upgrade of Michelin tires to Pirelli tires in Performance range vehicles after the 2014 models.
So, without a question, Tesla OEM tires are the finest for your car! However, if you have an obsession with doing things your way, you can certainly put run-flat tires on your Tesla. Remember all the disadvantages that have recently been directed at you!
Keep in mind that run-flat tires are best suited for people who frequently traverse the streets of the town. However, if you spend most of your time driving on motorways, these tires may not be very useful.
You can further check out this video from the Happy Brick YouTube channel to have a clearer perspective on whether you should use run-flat tires with your Model 3 or not:
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Why Does Tesla Not Prefer Run-Flat Tires?
After considering all the downsides of run-flat tires, it’s easy to see why Tesla does not favor them. The most important reason Tesla avoids these tires, however, is “the added weight.”
As previously said, Tesla is continually striving to give its owners additional miles after each charge. Because of this, Tesla tries to eliminate any unnecessary weight that could slow down this beast on the road.
And, seeing that your automobile will be 20%–25% heavier, you can figure out the total impact on miles between charges.
Run-flats would typically be a stiffer sidewall/higher weight tire which on average probably decreases mileage/energy per mile (compared to a high-efficiency tire on the area wheels).
Laura Bush
Given how meticulously Tesla strives to make even modest improvements to their vehicles, this would undoubtedly set them back when it comes to providing you with new features and remarkable accuracy every time.
That’s the reason why Tesla will not equip its vehicle with run-flat tires anytime soon.
Does Tesla Model 3 Come With a Spare Tire?
NO! Teslas do not include a spare tire or wheel!
It’s no longer very feasible, to start with.
Tesla is undeniably one of the most forward-thinking automakers.
When everyone else thought the idea of electric cars and a supercharging network was absurd, they pushed it.
Regardless of what other people may say, they do their research and act in the way they believe is best.
Tesla decided not to include a spare tire in any of its vehicles after realizing how rarely flats occur.
Moreover, operators of junkyards discovered that, in 85% of cases, the spare tire on a vehicle has never even been touched.
According to an NBC News poll, over 60% of millennials do not know how to replace a tire. Leaving a spare tire in cargo is thus quite pointless.
Lastly, Tesla does not supply spare tires with every model since most users receive free roadside assistance.
Considering all these reasons, the decision of not including a spare tire by Tesla seems absolutely plausible.
What If I Got a Flat on My Tesla Model 3?
Flats are inevitable; you’ll get it sooner or later. Let’s see what solutions the community recommends:
#1 Tesla Roadside Assistance
Because it’s free, this is probably the best alternative if your car is still under warranty and is within a 50-mile radius.
All you have to do is phone them at 877-798-3752 (for US owners); they are accessible 24/7/365 to help you get out of situations like this. Here are the current numbers for other countries like North America, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia/Pacific.
#2 Spare Tire From Modern Spare
Fits:
✅ All the Model 3 years and trims
Pros:
✅ Compatible with every Model 3 version (including Performance)
✅ #1 widely recommended spare tire for Model 3 owners
✅ Highway-speeds-capable tires (rated for 81 mph)
✅ Lightweight aluminum alloy
✅ Complete kit available (with all tools required)
Cons:
❌ The extra tools are average quality at best
❌ Fairly competitive price
Want to know more about it? Check out our in-depth guide to the only worthy spare tire option for the Model 3.
#3 Tire Repair Kit: BETOOLL Tire Repair Kit
Pros
✅ Offers more bang for your buck than Tesla’s tire repair kit
✅ Easy to use
✅ Super durable
✅ Instant sealing plugs for punctures
✅ Fits inside your glove compartment
Cons
❌ Doesn’t include a tire inflator
Final Thoughts: Does Tesla Model 3 Come With Run-Flat Tires?
To summarize, the Tesla Model 3 does not come with run-flat tires, but you’re free to add run-flat tires to your vehicle after confirming their compatibility.
Is it advisable? No. Run-flat tires will mess with the range and might cause some undesirable issues to your Tesla as discussed above.
As an owner, you must have to be prepared for a flat situation beforehand. Keep a tire plug kit in your vehicle. An even better approach would be to keep a spare tire in the trunk of your electric vehicle, especially when you go on a long trip.
If you don’t have both, Tesla’s roadside assistance will still be available to help you out if you’re in their radius. You’ll have to wait a bit, but your problem will get resolved.
Zac Ludicrous
Mechanical engineer by profession. TSLA shareholder before the hype. EV enthusiast all day long. Zac enjoys learning about the future of battery technology, autonomy, and EVs. He considers Tesla Model 3 the most important vehicle of the 21st century -- and is in a quest to improve the ownership experience of every Model 3 owner he possibly can.These 5 rare tips can save you so much time and stress – and few owners know about them (even after years of ownership). Sign up below to learn more. It's free!
