Should You Repair or Replace a Flat Car Tire?
1 Answers
When a car tire is flat, you should pull over as soon as possible to inspect the tire's condition, promptly replace it with the spare tire, and then drive to the nearest service center to inflate the flat tire. When driving with a spare tire, it is necessary to reduce your speed. Car tires are in direct contact with the road surface and, together with the vehicle's suspension system, they help protect the car. Hazards of Driving on a Flat Tire: Continuing to drive on a flat tire increases the contact area between the tire and the ground, causing the temperature inside the tire to rise sharply during driving. Additionally, severe deformation of the tire sidewall accelerates the aging of internal steel wires and fabric layers, increases fuel consumption, reduces the tire's lifespan, and may even lead to a potential blowout hazard. Moreover, driving with zero tire pressure can damage the wheel rim. Tire Maintenance Tips: Regular Tire Pressure Checks: Tire pressure should not be too high or too low. Excessive tire pressure can lead to a blowout risk under high-speed operation due to the inability to withstand excessive expansion pressure, while insufficient tire pressure can cause excessive tire expansion and contraction due to uneven road surfaces, keeping the tire in a constant state of fatigue and accelerating its aging. Regular Balance Checks: Not only do they extend the tire's lifespan, but they also improve the vehicle's stability. Regular Tire Rotation: Ensures even wear across all four tires and provides better friction between the front tires (steering drive wheels) and the ground, preventing front-wheel slippage and ensuring driving safety.
