Can a Flat Tire Still Be Used?
2 Answers
A flat tire can still be used. If you notice a tire is leaking, first turn on your hazard lights and pull over to inspect it. If you have an air pump in your car, you can try inflating it slightly to see if it holds air. If the tire is leaking slowly and you don't have any tire repair tools or an air pump, you can drive slowly to a nearby auto repair shop for inspection. The main functions of a tire include supporting the full weight of the vehicle, bearing the load of the car, transmitting traction and braking torque, ensuring adhesion between the wheels and the road, reducing and absorbing vibrations and impacts while driving, preventing excessive vibrations and premature damage to car components, adapting to the high-speed performance of the vehicle while reducing driving noise, and ensuring driving safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
I've seen many friends who think a little air leak in the tire is no big deal and keep driving, only to end up in serious trouble. In fact, once a tire starts leaking, it must not be used anymore—even a slow leak is dangerous enough. Driving with it makes the car noticeably unstable and prone to drifting, especially at high speeds. If the pressure gets too low, the tire sidewall can overheat and deform, potentially leading to a sudden blowout, endangering both the driver and the car. For safety, immediately pull over to a safe spot, turn off the engine, and inspect the tire. If the leak is severe, don’t risk driving—call a tow truck right away. If it’s a minor leak, drive slowly to a repair shop for a patch. Regularly checking tire pressure to prevent leaks is also crucial—it saves a lot of headaches later. Ignoring a leaking tire only makes things worse and could damage the rim, leading to costly repairs. Always prioritize safety—don’t let a small issue turn into an accident.
