Can a tire still be used after driving 5+ km without air?
3 Answers
If there is no air leakage after inflation, it can continue to be used as a spare tire. Here is the relevant information: 1. Suggestion: It is not recommended to continue driving with a tire in a low-pressure state. (Please identify the cause of the low tire pressure; for example: whether there is a nail puncture, cut, aging or cracked valve rubber, etc.). 2. Reason: Driving with insufficient air pressure will cause excessive bending of the tire body, which generates high heat. The internal airtight layer rubber may be burned into black spots, leading to separation between the rubber and the tire body cord fabric. In more severe cases, the airtight layer rubber may melt due to the high heat, causing the internal structure of the tire to be severely damaged. Continuing to drive with a weakened tire may eventually cause tire damage or even a blowout, posing safety hazards.
Running 5 kilometers on a flat tire is no small matter, and I personally think it's unusable. Imagine driving that long with a deflated tire—the sidewalls would be ground down harshly, and internal structures like the cord layers might crack. Even if the damage isn’t visible on the surface, the safety margin drops drastically. The risk of a blowout skyrockets on highways or during turns, which is no joke. For your safety and others', stop using this tire immediately and visit a reputable tire shop for inspection. A professional will use tools to detect internal damage, but in my opinion, after driving that far, it’s likely beyond repair and needs replacement. Make it a habit to check tire pressure monthly—catching low pressure early saves a lot of trouble. Safety first is always the golden rule.
After driving 5 kilometers with a flat tire, I personally advise against taking the risk of continuing to use it. This situation is like letting the tire run naked, with the rim pressing against the sidewall as it rolls. Heat builds up, softening the rubber, and the internal cords could be broken without you even knowing. The car might feel unstable while driving. If you keep driving, the chance of a blowout increases sharply. If an accident happens, the repair costs could be higher than buying a new tire. With years of driving experience, I’ve encountered similar situations and chose to replace the tire outright—it cost a bit, but ensured peace of mind while driving. You should check the tire for any bulges or cuts; if you spot any, don’t hesitate to replace it. Also, carry a compact tire pressure gauge and check regularly to avoid such mishaps. For long-term safety, it’s not worth saving a few bucks.
