Can a tire with a nail puncture still be used if it's not leaking air?
2 Answers
Generally, the tread of a tire is relatively thick. If a nail punctures the tread, you can pull it out and apply some soapy water to the puncture site to check for bubbles. If bubbles appear, it indicates that the tire is damaged and should not be used, as it can easily lead to safety accidents. Below are some related tips on car tire maintenance: 1. Regularly check tire pressure: Inflate underinflated tires promptly to maintain consistent tire pressure. Otherwise, it can cause rapid wear of low-pressure tires, increase driving resistance, raise fuel consumption, and lead to issues like directional deviation. 2. Avoid hitting obstacles: When driving at high speeds, hitting obstacles such as potholes can cause severe compression deformation between the obstacle and the tire near the rim flange. This can damage the tire's inner fabric cords, leading to air leakage from broken cords and the formation of bulges. In severe cases, it can cause the tire sidewall to rupture, resulting in sudden air loss.
I've been driving for over ten years and have encountered several instances where my tires were punctured by nails but didn't lose air. Although it might seem fine, it's actually quite risky. That time on the highway, I was driving alone when I heard an unusual noise. I got out to check and found a large nail embedded in the tire. It wasn't leaking when I pressed on it, but I didn't take it lightly—if the nail loosened at high speed, internal cracks could spread, leading to a sudden blowout, which would be dangerous. Later, I had a mechanic check it and found some rubber damage. I got it patched promptly to feel at ease. Now, I've developed a habit of keeping a portable tire pressure gauge in my car, checking the tire pressure weekly, and always inspecting the tires before long trips. I suggest you don't delay either; go to a professional shop nearby to get it checked. It's quick and cost-effective to repair, much cheaper than replacing a new tire, and safety is more important than anything. Remember, when it comes to driving, prevention is key—don't wait until something happens to regret it.
