Is Self-Sealing Fluid Harmful to Car Tires?
3 Answers
Self-sealing tire fluid can cause damage to tires. Introduction to Self-Sealing Tire Fluid: Self-sealing tire fluid eliminates the need for tire removal during repairs, sealing punctures in just 3 seconds. A single application provides long-term protection. If a tire is punctured while driving, the fluid automatically seals the hole without requiring the vehicle to stop, revolutionizing traditional manual tire repair methods. Working Principle of Self-Sealing Tire Fluid: The fluid contains short fiber materials or fine particulate matter pre-injected into the tire in specific quantities. It seals micro-pores in the tire; when a puncture occurs, the strongly escaping air carries the fiber or particle-laden fluid out, which then gets squeezed into the hole. The fibers or particles instantly form a tight seal, preventing further air leakage. This maintains sufficient tire pressure, allowing continued vehicle operation and preventing potential accidents.
As a truck driver with over 20 years of experience, I think tire sealant is like instant noodles - good for emergencies. Last time I had a flat on the highway, I used it and it did get me to the repair shop. But this stuff is corrosive - I've seen my neighbor's wheel rims develop white spots from it, and the mechanic said aluminum alloy rims are especially vulnerable. Long-term use can also cause internal rubber aging in tires, and the sealed spot becomes difficult to professionally repair later. It's fine for temporary emergencies, but you should remove it and get a proper tire repair as soon as you get home. Never leave it in the tire just to save trouble.
Back when I worked at a tire shop, I often encountered cars with issues caused by tire sealants. Some car owners thought it was a quick fix, only to find their wheels shaking badly after a month or so—uneven solidification of the sealant led to imbalance. The worst part was the damage to the tire's internal coating, like the inner liner getting corroded, which actually made it more prone to leaks. If the puncture was on the sidewall, the sealant couldn't even plug it properly and made it harder to assess the damage. Honestly, this stuff is only good for emergencies in remote areas. In the city, if you get a flat, it's better to just call for roadside assistance.
