Can a Run-Flat Tire Still Be Driven with Cracks?
2 Answers
Tire damage, if it occurs, is generally on the sidewall. The sidewall is the thinnest part of the entire tire, yet it undergoes the most compression and deformation during driving, bearing significant loads. Therefore, regardless of the type of tire, if there are scratches or damage on the sidewall, both tire manufacturers and automobile manufacturers explicitly state that tires with sidewall damage or air leaks cannot be repaired and must be replaced. The specific reasons are as follows: 1. Based on the structure of the tire, the sidewall is the weakest area, consisting only of a thin layer of rubber and the cord ply, which is a mesh layer woven from cotton threads and rayon. 2. Despite its thinness, the tire sidewall bears the air pressure that supports the entire vehicle's weight. If the sidewall is cut, especially if the cord ply is damaged, it completely disrupts the structural stress of the sidewall, making it highly prone to causing a tire blowout.
A few days ago, I noticed small cracks on the run-flat tires of my car, and my heart skipped a beat. I immediately went online to research and asked friends for advice. Although run-flat tires can continue to drive for a short distance after a puncture, cracks are no small matter—they can be caused by tire aging, exposure to sun and rain, or aggressive driving. If not addressed promptly, the cracks may deepen, and the tire could suddenly burst at high speeds, leading to loss of control. I strongly advise against pushing your luck with long-distance driving. Even if it's just from home to the repair shop, keep your speed under 40 km/h to minimize risks. Get to a professional repair shop as soon as possible to check the depth of the cracks. Use a tire tread depth gauge to test; if the steel belts are exposed, you must replace the tire immediately. As someone who drives to work every day, I know how crucial tires are, so I'd rather spend a bit of money to fix the issue than risk a major accident to save a few bucks. Whenever possible, park in the shade to avoid direct sunlight, which can effectively delay tire cracking. Also, make it a habit to check your tire condition during regular maintenance to ensure safety.
