What to Know When You Have a Flat Tire!

When you’re on the road, a little distraction can change your journey. One of the most common problems faced by drivers is flat tire. These leaks are not only annoying, but can also threaten your safety. However, with the right understanding and effective solutions, you can solve this problem easily.

In this  TransTRACK article, we will explore the causes of flat tire, the signs you need to look out for, as well as practical steps to solve this problem. From causes to simple maintenance tips, we will provide tips on how to deal with flat tire.

Causes of Car Flat Tire

Here are some common causes of car flat tire:

Tire Valve Disruption

• The tire valve is an important component to regulate the flow of air in and out of the tire. If the tire valve is damaged or punctured, air may escape from the tire slowly or even quickly depending on the extent of the damage.
• Common causes of tire valve failure include age, wear, or physical damage from an accident or impact.
• Sometimes, dust or dirt can also clog the tire valve, disrupting its function and causing a leak.

Wheel Disruption

• Damaged wheels can cause uneven pressure on the tires, leading to excessive friction and potential leaks.
• Small cracks in the wheels or even manufacturing defects in new wheels can cause problems.
• Bent wheels can also affect tire sealing, as the tires do not sit properly on the wheels.

Improper Air Pressure

• Too low pressure can make tires more prone to punctures, as low pressure allows tires to be punctured by sharp objects or damaged more easily.
• On the other hand, too high pressure can also be a problem. Excessive pressure can cause the tire to over-strain, increasing the risk of leaks around the tire sealing.

Tire Tread Leak

• The tire valve is a small but important part of the tire system. If the valve is damaged or punctured, air can slowly escape from the tire.
• Damage to the tire valve can be caused by corrosion, wear, or physical damage due to careless manipulation when inflating or changing tires.

It is important to regularly check the condition of tire valves, wheels, and tire pressure to prevent and detect problems early. Good maintenance can help extend tire life and maintain safe driving.

How to Fix a Leaking Car Tire

Here are the general steps to fix a punctured car tire:

Marking the Leaky Area

• Finding the punctured area on the tire is a crucial step in the repair process. One commonly used method is to use a mixture of water and soap. This mixture will be applied to the surface of the tire, and if there is an air leak, bubbles will appear in the leaking area. This allows you to find the exact location that needs to be repaired.

Repair or Patch a Tire Leak

• Once the location of the puncture is found, you can repair it in several ways. For small leaks, tire patch plaster or tire patch liquid can be a temporary solution. Tire patch plaster is applied to the punctured area after cleaning and drying it well. Tire sealing fluid can also be introduced into the tire through a valve, where it hardens when exposed to outside air and seals the leak.
• For larger or serious leaks, you may need to take the tire to a repair shop to be repaired by professionals. They may use stronger rubber patching methods or even replace the damaged part of the tire.

Repairing Wheel Damage

• If the leak is caused by damage to the wheels, wheel repair is also necessary. This could involve processes such as flattening a bent wheel or welding a crack in the wheel. For more severe damage, wheel replacement may be required.
• It is important to ensure that the wheel is properly repaired to prevent future leaks and to maintain the structural integrity of the wheel.

Repairing Valve Stem Damage

• If the leak is caused by a valve stem fault, the next step is to repair it or replace it. A damaged valve stem can cause air leakage from the tire.
• The repair process may vary depending on the extent of the damage. It may involve replacing the damaged tire valve or repairing the leaking part of the valve by welding or replacing damaged components.

After making repairs, it is important to inspect the tire thoroughly and ensure that the leak has been properly repaired. Be sure to test the tire pressure and ensure that it is in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain vehicle performance and safety. If you are unsure about doing the repair yourself, it is better to seek help from professionals who are experienced in tire and wheel maintenance.

In this constantly moving world, every second counts when you’re driving. That’s why TransTRACK Vehicle Maintenance System is here to provide a reliable solution when you encounter a flat tire. With its advanced features, TransTRACK not only identifies problems quickly, but also provides efficient solutions. By joining us, you will experience the freedom to explore the road without worry. Don’t let a tire leak stop you in your tracks. Take full control of your vehicle’s health with TransTRACK. Join our community now to experience the true difference in your ride.