Will running flat on a tubeless tire damage it?
2 Answers
Short distances are acceptable, but prolonged use is not recommended as it will affect the tire's lifespan or even cause direct wear damage. The advantages and disadvantages of tubeless tires are as follows: 1. Advantages: Tubeless tires are more wear-resistant than standard pneumatic tires, offer superior dynamic balance performance, and enhance driving comfort, making them more suitable for long-distance high-speed driving over extended periods. 2. Disadvantages: The sidewalls are relatively weak with poor lateral load capacity, resulting in lower high-load performance. Some users may experience sudden air loss in tubeless tires, which could be attributed to inferior quality or damaged sidewall usage.
Yes, pushing a vehicle with a flat tubeless tire will definitely damage the tire. When the tire is flat, it becomes soft and limp. Pushing the vehicle puts the entire weight on the rim, which directly crushes the tire sidewall. At best, it causes bulges, and at worst, it tears and renders the tire useless. Once, I was in a hurry and pushed my car about ten meters with a flat tubeless tire, and the inner side of the tire was completely folded, forcing me to replace it—wasting 800 yuan for nothing. I also nearly damaged the suspension system, which would have been even more expensive to repair if it had been deformed. The safest approach is to pull over immediately, don’t move the car, and call for roadside assistance or use a temporary inflator. Regularly checking tire pressure is a basic practice; doing it weekly can help avoid this hassle. Tires aren’t made of iron—don’t let them bear the weight unnecessarily. Saving on towing fees might end up costing you a fortune in repairs.
