The incident of nails being stuck in car tires often occurs. This is usually indicated by strange vibrations while driving or the tire pressure indicator on the dashboard lights up. The question that often arises regarding the statement above is, can car tires still be used? This time otomodify will discuss this topic along with the risks and steps that should be taken.
Tires stuck with nails, are they still safe to use?
Technically, car tires with nails stuck in them can still be used for a certain period of time. But this depends on the following conditions:
Nail position
- If the nail is stuck in the tire tread area (the part that is in direct contact with the road), the tire can usually still be used for a while.
- If the nail is stuck on the side of the tire, replace the tire immediately. This is because the side of the tire is not designed to withstand the pressure of foreign objects.
Size and type of nail
- Small nails will only cause slow leaks
- Large or long nails can damage the inner tire fibers. This accelerates air leaks or, worse, can cause tears.
Type of tire
- Tubeless tires will be more resistant to leaks due to nails. This is because tires are designed to hold air better
- Tires with tubes (inner tubes) are more susceptible to leaks due to nails. The tires will not last long.
How long can a tire stuck with a nail last?
It all depends on the conditions mentioned above.
- Tubeless tires will last longer, around 2-3 days or even longer.
- Tires with tubes will only last a few hours. It will wear out more quickly if used on rocky roads.
What to do if a nail is stuck in the tire?
If you find a nail stuck in your car tire, the best step is to take action immediately. Here are the steps to follow:
- Do not remove the nail: The nail will trap air in the tire. Removing the nail means accelerating the air leak.
- Check the air pressure: Make sure the tire pressure is within normal limits. If necessary, add air using a portable pump.
- Avoid high speeds: Driving at high speeds is the same as increasing the pressure on the tire. This worsens the leak or can even cause the tire to burst.
A car tire that is stuck in a nail may be able to survive for a while. However, this condition is still risky if left too long. Risks such as unstable air pressure, damage to the tire structure, and tire bursts can threaten your safety. With the right precautions, you can minimize the risk of a tire being stuck in a nail and keep your vehicle safe and comfortable to use. 🚗✨