Can a Tire Still Be Used If Nailed at the Sidewall?

[Tony]

Tire punctured by a nail can still be used depends on whether the puncture has damaged the internal structure of the tire. Here are the details about nails puncturing the tire sidewall: 1. Specific conditions: If the tire crack is damaged or has affected the internal cord material, it is not recommended to repair and continue using it. If the tire crack has not damaged the cord material, it can still be used, but it is necessary to regularly check whether the wound has expanded or the cords are damaged. If this happens, replace the tire immediately. 2. Precautions: Always check the tire pressure. The inflation pressure must comply with the national standards for different types and specifications of tires. According to the vehicle the tire is fitted to, the inflation pressure can follow the recommended front and rear tire pressure agreed upon by the car manufacturer and the tire manufacturer.

[DiAnderson]

Seeing a nail stuck in the sidewall of the tire immediately made me nervous. As someone who frequently drives long distances, I know the sidewall is much weaker than the tread—once punctured here, the load-bearing capacity drops significantly, especially at high speeds where a sudden blowout could cause an accident. The last time I encountered a similar situation, I immediately slowed down and pulled over to check the air leakage rate with a pressure gauge. If it was leaking slowly, I could still drive a short distance to the repair shop, but never exceeding 40 mph, as the risk increases dramatically. Sidewall punctures are difficult to reliably repair, and many shops directly recommend replacement because patches often lead to bulging or recurring leaks. I suggest making it a habit to check your tires weekly for any foreign objects or cracks—don’t risk safety to save money. Always remember: safety comes first. Spending a few hundred on new tires is far better than dealing with an accident.

[MacErin]

A nail stuck in the side of a tire is no small issue, and I need to explain it from a repair perspective. I used to think a simple patch would suffice, but in practice, sidewall damage has a low repair success rate—patches don't adhere well and can detach under high pressure, leading to leaks or blowouts. If I test with an air pump and the pressure drops quickly, it's unsafe for long drives; I immediately switch to the spare or call a tow to a professional shop. Mechanics typically check the nail's depth and location—if it's deep in the sidewall, replacement is the only option. Patching costs 30-50 yuan, while a new tire runs hundreds, but considering the tire's role in supporting the car's weight and safety, it's money well spent. Regular tire checks can prevent such issues, like inspecting the sidewalls for abnormalities during car washes.

[StAnthony]

A nail in the tire sidewall requires cautious handling. I've experienced this several times—the sidewall is too weak to hold a patch, and forcing its use may accelerate air leakage or cause bulging. The safest approach is to immediately pull over and check for air loss. If it's a slow leak, you can drive at low speed to the nearest repair shop; if it's fast, you must change to the spare tire or seek help. Replacing a new tire is costly, involving an expense of several hundred yuan, but it's worth it compared to the risk of a high-speed blowout. Regular tire maintenance can help extend its lifespan.