
Continuing to drive with a flat tire will cause serious damage to both the tire and the wheel rim, and it also poses a safety hazard. Below is a detailed introduction about car tires: Overview: Car tires are one of the essential components of a vehicle, directly in contact with the road surface. Together with the car suspension, they help absorb shocks during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smooth driving. Function: They ensure excellent adhesion between the wheels and the road surface; improve the vehicle's traction, braking, and off-road capability; and bear the weight of the car. The critical role tires play in vehicles is increasingly being recognized.

Having driven for decades, I've seen too many people stubbornly driving on flat tires with disastrous outcomes. When a tire runs flat for a distance, the rubber overheats and deforms, causing the internal cord layers to snap entirely, rendering the whole tire useless and requiring replacement. The wheel rim also gets squeezed out of shape, leading to costly repairs. The suspension system faces extreme stress, potentially causing permanent damage to springs and shock absorbers, affecting handling. Safety-wise, it's a nightmare—unstable steering increases the risk of skidding or rollover. I nearly had an accident due to this in my youth, and since then, I always remind myself: if you notice a tire leak, pull over immediately, use the spare tire in the trunk or call a tow truck—never gamble by driving on. Regularly checking tire pressure and spare tire condition saves hassle and headaches.

As someone who frequently engages in car DIY, I must say driving on a flat tire is extremely hazardous. Without proper tire pressure, the rubber generates intense heat from friction with the road, causing the internal structure to melt and become brittle—just a few hundred meters could lead to a blowout. The wheel rim can deform upon impact, especially aluminum ones which are more prone to damage. Suspension components suffer excessive shock, leading to spring fatigue. Braking becomes unbalanced, increasing stopping distance. Having modified cars myself and tested with tools, even short distances can create hidden risks. I recommend carrying a portable air pump to check pressure—safety first, don’t gamble with luck.

Never risk driving on a flat tire. My driving instructor taught me that driving with a flat tire leads to loss of control, heavy and unstable steering, making it prone to skidding or rear-end collisions. The tire sidewall deforms, overheats, and wears out quickly; driving just a few hundred meters can damage the rim, requiring a replacement. Uneven weight distribution can damage suspension components, and brake response is dangerously delayed. A friend of mine experienced this on the highway and avoided disaster only by pulling over and calling for emergency assistance. Stop immediately to check, change to a spare tire, or call for a tow—safety comes first.


