Should You Pull Out a Nail Stuck in a Car Tire?

[McGemma]

Do not pull out the nail by yourself when it's stuck in a car tire. The most correct approach after a tire puncture is to stop immediately, change to the spare tire, and then take the punctured tire to a 4S shop or repair shop for inspection. However, in many cases, we cannot change the spare tire immediately. Generally, vehicles with relatively rich configurations nowadays are equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system. Check whether the tire pressure is within the normal range. If it is below the normal range, it is recommended to take immediate action. Methods for dealing with tire leaks: 1. Rapid air leakage: If pulling out the nail from the tire causes visible air leakage, you must stop the vehicle immediately and wait for assistance. Driving under such conditions not only risks ruining the entire tire but may also endanger the driver's life. 2. Slow leak: In case of a slow leak, drive at a reduced speed to the nearest repair shop. Remember not to drive at high speeds on the highway or for extended periods.

[MacThomas]

Over the years of driving my old car, I've encountered several instances of nails puncturing the tires. Each time, I chose not to remove the nail because it acted like a plug, preventing rapid air loss. Pulling it out could have caused the tire to deflate completely within minutes, leaving the car stranded on the road. Once, on my way to work, I hit a nail but resisted the urge to remove it, driving slowly to the nearest repair shop. The mechanic checked it and said leaving the nail in was the right call—the repair was quick and easy, costing only 30 yuan. Now, I always remind myself to inspect the tires before driving, especially after traveling on dusty roads. Developing a habit of regular tire maintenance can reduce such unexpected incidents, ensuring safe and worry-free driving.

[VanGriffin]

Last month, I just learned how to drive, and when I encountered a nail in my tire for the first time, I panicked and wanted to pull it out immediately. A car-savvy friend saw me and shouted, 'Don’t touch it!' He explained that the nail actually slows down the air leakage, and removing it could cause the tire to deflate rapidly, increasing the risk of an accident. So I followed his advice and carefully drove at low speed to a nearby repair shop. The mechanic fixed the problem in just ten minutes. Through this experience, I learned to stay calm in emergencies, first using a mobile app to locate nearby repair shops before taking action. It’s also practical to pay more attention to road obstacles or keep a portable air pump in the trunk for emergencies, helping new drivers handle unexpected situations with ease.

[MacMelanie]

As someone who frequently helps with car repairs, when I see a nail stuck in a tire, my first reaction is to check the tire pressure and not rush to pull it out. The nail actually acts as a temporary plug, buying you time to safely drive to a professional repair shop. If you pull it out, the hole may enlarge, causing faster air leakage, and sometimes you might need to replace the tire or call for a tow truck, which can be a big hassle. I recommend driving slowly at low speed to a repair shop within 5 kilometers immediately after discovery. If the tire pressure drops sharply on the way, pull over and change to the spare tire or seek help. It's best to walk around the car once a week to check for any foreign objects in the tires. Developing a habit of regular inspections can significantly reduce the likelihood of such problems occurring.