Does a Nail Puncture on the Tire Tread Require Replacement?
2 Answers
Whether a tire needs to be replaced after a nail puncture on the tread: 1. Check if it's punctured: Pour some water on the area where the nail is embedded and observe if there is any air leakage. If no bubbles appear, it means the nail hasn't fully penetrated the tire. If it has, there will definitely be air leakage because the nail cannot seal the hole. 2. If not fully penetrated: To prevent the nail from going deeper, you can use a screwdriver or car key to pry it out. 3. After removing the nail: Pour water on the punctured area again to check for air leakage. If there's no leakage, no special treatment is needed, and you can continue using the tire normally.
That afternoon, I discovered a large nail stuck in the front tire tread, and I was so nervous that I broke out in a sweat. As an experienced long-distance driver, I knew that a nail in the tread doesn’t require an immediate tire replacement, but it must be handled carefully: don’t pull out the nail to avoid worsening air leakage; drive slowly to a nearby repair shop for professional removal and testing. The tread area is thick and wear-resistant, and if the nail hasn’t pierced the inner liner, the tire can be repaired—methods like hot patching or plugging are affordable and quick. However, if the hole is large or near the tire shoulder edge, structural damage may necessitate a replacement for safety. After repairs, I’ve often driven tens of thousands of kilometers without issues, but it’s crucial to regularly check tire pressure and wear. Low pressure after a puncture increases the risk of a blowout, especially at high speeds. Address it promptly to avoid disrupting travel plans—patching costs just a few dozen bucks, while a new tire, though expensive, is worth it. Experience tells me: small tread punctures can be fixed to extend tire life, but major hazards require decisive replacement.
