Simple Ways to Keep Your Tire Full When You Run Over a Nail

Can you still drive on a tire with a nail in it? It’s happened to all of us in New Palestine, IN, and always at the least convenient time possible. If you can’t get to a repair shop right away, you might be tempted to drive your car with the nail still in the tire. This is a bad idea, even if the tire doesn’t seem to be flat or even leaking air—a small puncture now can lead to major damage if not cared for properly.

Can you drive with a nail in your tire?

Depending on how deeply the tire has been punctured, the nail might prevent any air from leaking. If you must drive, make sure it’s only a short distance and go to a local repair shop. If you continue to drive on the punctured tire, it can irreparably damage it—save yourself the cost of a new tire and avoid driving on the damaged one.

Avoid or mitigate punctures

Naturally, the best way to avoid a trip to the repair shop is to take precautionary measures. While you can’t account for every nail or sharp object that finds its way onto the road, you can do some simple things to reduce the possibility of running over something that will damage your tire:

• Use puncture-resistant tires: If you have the extra cash and access to puncture-resistant tires, you may find that they put your mind at ease. Ask your local tire and repair shop if they offer these heavy-duty tire types.
• Try a tire sealant: Tire sealant helps plug holes just long enough so you can drive to the repair shop and get your tire repaired. Keep some in your trunk for emergencies.
• Use puncture-resistant strips: Placing these strips on the inner tread of your tires can help avoid punctures while you’re driving—just remember that they’re not miracle workers.
• Avoid driving near construction zones: If you can avoid driving near construction zones and anywhere small, sharp objects are being used, so much the better—you’ll reduce your likelihood of getting a flat.

What to do if you run over a nail

If you notice that your tire is leaking air, your first priority should be finding a repair shop. Pull over and check the damage. If the hole is in the sidewall or larger than a quarter inch, you may need to put the spare tire on, or call a tow truck to take you to the shop. However, if the damage is minor, you can go ahead and drive yourself. Be cautious—your tire could blow out, which poses a risk to everyone else on the road.

If you have tire sealant on hand, you might wish to plug the hole as much as possible before driving to the shop. Again, be cautious, and resist the temptation to keep driving on the damaged tire.

For more information about keeping tires full after driving over a nail, or to get tire repair and replacement in New Palestine, IN, call Auto Air & Heating, Inc. today.

Categorised in: Tires

This post was written by Writer