What to Do About Slow Tire Leaks?
2 Answers
Wheels with slow leaks should have their tires replaced or repaired. Below are relevant instructions for checking tires: 1. Valve core leakage: Apply some water to see if bubbles form; the solution is not to overtighten the dust cap to avoid pressing against the valve core. 2. Tire pinholes: Inflate the tire fully and scrub with a soft brush using soapy water. 3. Foreign objects puncturing the tire: These can usually be found by carefully inspecting the tire surface. For hard-to-find punctures, sprinkle water on the tire surface to locate bubbling spots—sometimes even a hissing sound can be heard. 4. Damage to the tire sidewall or inner edge: The extent of sidewall damage can often be seen directly, with severe cases showing cracks or bulges. If such damage is found, replace the tire as soon as possible to avoid blowouts.
I've encountered slow tire leaks several times before, where the tire pressure gradually decreases, making the ride uncomfortable. First, you should inspect the tire surface, especially near the tire tread, by feeling for any nails or sharp objects embedded in it. You can also use soapy water to check for bubbles and locate the leak. If the leak is in the middle of the tread, you can get it patched at a repair shop for a relatively low cost, usually around a few dozen yuan. However, if the leak is on the sidewall, it's better to replace the tire entirely rather than trying to repair it, as damage to the sidewall can lead to dangerous blowouts. Temporarily, you can inflate the tire to get to the repair shop, but avoid driving on highways. Remember to check the tire pressure regularly, ideally once a month, to prevent slow leaks caused by tire aging.
