What to Do When There's Air Leakage Between a Tubeless Tire and the Rim?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons and solutions for air leakage between a tubeless tire and the rim: 1. Tire Bead Issues: If the tire bead has cracks or missing parts, it will cause air leakage. Aging of the tire bead can also lead to leakage, in which case the tire needs to be replaced. If there is excessive mud or sand on the tire bead, or if it is not clean, it can also cause leakage, so the tire should be cleaned. 2. Rim Edge Problems: If the rim edge is rusty (the part that contacts the tire bead), it can be polished with a grinding wheel or sandpaper. If the rim is severely deformed, cannot be rounded, and still leaks air after adjustment, then it should be replaced with a new rim.
Back when I drove an old car, I often experienced air leakage between the tire and the rim—a pretty common issue usually caused by rust or dirt buildup on the wheel rim edges compromising the seal. At the time, I first applied soapy water to the rim seams; bubbles formed at the leak points. I tried lightly sanding the rim surface with fine sandpaper, cleaned it thoroughly, and applied some specialized tire sealant, but honestly, the fix was only temporary. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, the technician used professional equipment to thoroughly clean the rim and replaced the old seal ring, which completely resolved the issue. Problems like this are often triggered by driving over potholes, so I recommend being cautious to avoid jolts that could damage the seal. If the air leak is severe and tire pressure drops rapidly, never force it on the highway—safety first.
