Does the LS500 have run flat tires?
In most cases, no—the Lexus LS500 does not come with run-flat tires as standard. It typically ships with conventional tires paired with a tire repair kit, and often no full-size spare. Market and trim variations can apply, so always verify the exact equipment for your vehicle.
Overview: what you should expect on the LS500
Run-flat tires are designed to let you drive for a short distance after a puncture, but many luxury sedans have moved away from them in favor of traditional tires plus repair options. For the LS500, the prevailing arrangement in recent years has been standard tires with a repair kit rather than run-flats, and a spare tire is not always included in the trunk. This setup contributes to interior space savings and a smoother ride, but it means you should be prepared to use the repair kit or roadside assistance if you experience a loss of tire pressure.
Typical tire setup and indicators
When evaluating an LS500, look for signs that indicate whether run-flat tires are installed. The following points help confirm the tire type without needing to dismantle the wheels:
- Check the tire sidewall for markings such as "RFT" (Run Flat) or "Run Flat." If present, you have run-flat tires.
- Inspect the trunk area to see whether a spare tire is included. Run-flat-equipped cars may omit a spare in favor of a repair kit, while conventional tires often come with a spare or a repair kit depending on the package.
- Review the window sticker or the owner's manual for explicit information about run-flat tires or spare tire configuration.
- Ask the dealer to confirm the OEM tire type for your specific VIN, as configurations can vary by market and trim.
Concluding paragraph: In practice, most LS500 configurations you’ll encounter—especially in North America and Europe in recent years—rely on standard tires with a repair kit, and do not include run-flat tires as standard equipment. Always confirm for your exact vehicle if you’re unsure.
Regional and model-year variations
Tire configurations for the LS500 have varied by year and region. While the current generation generally leans toward conventional tires with a repair kit and no spare, some markets or optional packages may have differed in the past or offered limited-run configurations with run-flat tires. If you’re shopping used or importing a vehicle, verify the specific equipment from the build sheet, window sticker, or dealer documentation.
How to verify for your specific vehicle
To be sure you have the correct information for a particular LS500, use these steps as a checklist before purchase or if you’re inspecting a used car:
- Ask the seller or dealer for the exact tire specification and whether run-flat tires are installed.
- Inspect the tire sidewalls for "RFT" or "Run Flat" markings to confirm whether the tires are run-flat types.
- Look in the trunk for a spare wheel or a tire repair kit; the absence of a spare is common with non-run-flat setups that rely on a repair kit.
- Check the window sticker or vehicle specifications for confirmation of tire type and any optional packages related to tires.
Concluding paragraph: Verifying via official documentation or a VIN-specific build sheet is the most reliable way to determine whether a particular LS500 uses run-flat tires. Market-specific packages can cause variations, so don’t rely on general assumptions.
What to do if you get a flat on an LS500
Whether your LS500 uses run-flat tires or not, the recommended approach remains practical and consistent. If you’re punctured and have a repair kit, follow the manual’s instructions to address the issue temporarily. If the tire cannot be repaired, or if there is no repair kit available, contact roadside assistance or Lexus support for professional help, especially if you’re far from a service center.
- Consult the owner's manual for the correct repair procedure and recommended replacement tire type if a puncture occurs.
- Use the tire repair kit if instructed and applicable to the tire condition; do not drive long distances on a damaged tire.
- Contact roadside assistance if you’re unsure about tire condition or if the tire cannot be repaired on-site.
Concluding paragraph: Regardless of whether the LS500 has run-flat tires, maintaining situational awareness about tire condition and having access to roadside help are prudent practices for this luxury sedan.
Bottom line
The LS500 generally does not come with run-flat tires as standard equipment. Most recent configurations rely on conventional tires with a repair kit and often no spare. If run-flats are important to you, confirm with the dealer and check the vehicle’s documentation for the exact tire type on your specific car.
Summary
Overall, the LS500’s tire setup tends toward standard tires with a repair kit, not run-flat tires, though regional and trim variations can occur. Always verify the exact equipment on your vehicle by checking the window sticker, owner’s manual, or consulting the dealer to ensure you have the configuration you expect. This ensures you’re prepared for any tire-related eventuality and know whether you should plan for a repair kit or a spare ahead of time.
Which Lexus models have run-flat tires?
Several recent Lexus models, particularly the NX and UX, have run-flat tires, often as a standard or optional feature on specific trims. These tires are designed to allow you to continue driving for a limited distance after a puncture, eliminating the need for a spare tire and freeing up cargo space.
Specific models
- Lexus NX: Many recent models, including the 2022, 2024, and 2025 NX, are equipped with run-flat tires.
- Lexus UX: Some recent UX models, such as the 2022 and 2025 versions, are also available with run-flat tires.
- Other models: While these are two examples, run-flat technology is becoming more common on various Lexus models.
Considerations
- No spare tire: Vehicles equipped with run-flat tires typically do not have a spare tire, as the run-flats are intended to be driven on temporarily in case of a flat.
- Range and speed: Run-flat tires have limitations. For example, some are designed to provide temporary mobility for a distance of up to 50 miles at speeds up to 50 mph after a loss of pressure.
- Ride quality: Some drivers find run-flat tires to be harsher and less comfortable than regular tires, especially over bumps.
- Replacement: If you choose to replace run-flat tires with standard ones, it's essential to have an alternative for a flat tire, such as a spare tire or a tire repair kit.
Could the Lexus LS 500 be considered a luxury car?
For 36 years, the Lexus LS has defined what a flagship luxury sedan should be: a perfect balance of performance, innovation, and timeless comfort. And the 2026 LS 500 Heritage Edition continues this legacy of excellence.
How to tell if a tire is runflat or not?
ISO symbol - All run flat tyres are marked with an International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) symbol. This can be found on the sidewall of each tyre and consists of the letters RSC (Run Flat System Component) surrounded by a circle.
What luxury cars have run-flat tires?
A wide variety of luxury automakers fit run-flat tires to cars at the factory. Most BMW and Mini models include them, and Mercedes-Benz sedans and SUVs also have them. Other luxury brands using them include Audi, Cadillac, Lexus, and Infiniti. Even certain Toyota Sienna minivans come outfitted with run-flats.
