How to Deal with Stones in Tires?
2 Answers
1. Use tools to remove them. Use sharp-nose pliers, keys, or screwdrivers and other sharp tools to pick them out. This method is only suitable when there are not many stones. 2. Deflating and inflating can solve some of the stones. Here are the effects of stones in tires on the car: The grooves in the tires are designed for drainage. If they are blocked by small stones, the tire's drainage performance will be reduced when driving on muddy or wet roads, and the tire's grip will also significantly decrease, making it more prone to brake failure in emergencies. Here is additional information on tire self-inspection precautions: 1. Bulges: When a car drives over potholes, obstacles, or curbs at high speed, the tire may deform severely under the impact, causing a sudden increase in internal pressure. The direct consequence is a tire bulge. Tires with bulges must be replaced immediately to avoid the risk of a blowout. 2. Tread: Normally used family cars can replace tires every 60,000 kilometers or two years, but tires with severely worn treads should be replaced earlier. 3. Pressure: Visual inspection is not accurate; always use a dedicated tire pressure gauge to check if the tire pressure is normal. 4. Spare tire: To ensure the spare tire serves its emergency purpose, regular maintenance is essential. First, frequently check the spare tire's pressure.
It's quite common to have small stones stuck in tire treads, and I encounter this situation frequently myself. Especially after driving on gravel roads, pebbles can get lodged in the grooves. I've made it a habit to check during parking, using my fingers to pick them out or gently prying them off with a key, being careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the tires. If not removed, these stones can cause uneven tread wear, potentially leading to increased tire noise over time, or even risks of air leakage or blowouts, particularly dangerous at high speeds. Now, I always inspect the treads after car washes. Buying a dedicated tire cleaning tool isn't expensive either—just about ten yuan does the trick. Maintaining this habit has extended my tire lifespan, made rides quieter, and saved me a lot of trouble.