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Why should you not drive on a flat tire? The Consequences are Mind-blowing!

A well-maintained car tire

A well-maintained car tire

Running on a flat tire is a big no-no whatever vehicle you are driving. We know that you do not want to experience deflated tires in the middle of the road, especially during inclement weather, but it does happen unexpectedly. So, why should you not drive on a flat tire?

Carrying an air pump  with you will probably save your day, but sometimes we forgot the most important things inside our car.

Industry experts suggest that you always check tire pressure and keep them at standard inflation pressure between 32 to 35 psi.

This article will tell you the dangers of running a flat tire, what you should do when this happens, and other info about car tires that you should know.

How long does a tire last?

Most industry experts recommend changing car tires every seven years (or between 25,000 to 50,000 mileages) with proper care. But some car owners, just like the rest of us, want to prolong their life so we can save a lot.

But car tires may last longer than expected; it depends on how we care for it. Tires can also have a shorter lifespan because of tear and wear, the road condition where we drive, and the driving habits that you do.

However, you can refer to the manual for recommendations regarding the frequency of changing tires.

Sometimes, frequent and sudden braking on rough roads and other rugged or uneven trails can shorten the life of your tires.

A well-maintained car tire

A well-maintained car tire

How do you know your tire is flat while driving?

If your car has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System or TPMS, it will tell if you have the right pressure on your tires. If you do not have this system, some indications are easy to tell.

Here are some of the warning signs that your tire is flat or going flat:

  • Uncontrolled vibration

When you experienced excessive vibration on the steering wheel, the most likely cause is a flat tire. The tires are the only things that separate you from the ground; driving with an unbalanced tire could sway the steering system.

After checking the tires and it appears inflated, better check the air pressure to make sure. Sometimes, a tire that seems flat only needs more air to attain the correct pressure. 

  • Groaning or grinding sounds from your car

When you hear abnormal sounds coming from your car , the most probable cause is a flat tire. The unusual sounds may come from the tire itself as it touches and grinds against the fender.

The sounds may come from the tire itself. A humming or roaring noise results from the tire rotating flat that thumps on the ground. The best thing to do is to replace the flat tire with a reserved tire. But if you notice something unusual, better check it with a professional mechanic.

  • Worn-out tread patterns

If you are aware of the condition of your tire, you can spot easily if the tread can still grip the road. The tire tread should be more than 3/16-inch for it to function well. Tread is the molded part of the tire that touches the road.

Moreover, if any of your tires show the steel belts through the tread, it is time to replace the tire. Also, look for bumps or bulges on the tire sidewall as they are signs of defect.

So, why shouldn't you drive on a flat tire?

Aside from the usual poor tire conditions, a tire in perfect shape can still suffer deflation when punctured along the way. Getting a flat tire on the road should be an utmost concern because the consequences could be life-threatening.

Driving with ruptured tires may cause swaying of the car, which is very dangerous to the driver’s safety and other vehicles. During bad weather, a flat tire may cause you to shift the car on one side, which enables you to lose control.

Moreover, if you drive with a flat tire for a long time, the tire’s rim may be damaged, which will cost you more in replacement or repair.

Tip from the experts: A well-known tire manufacturer recommends that when you experience a flat tire or loss of pressure; gradually and slowly pull off at the side of the road a.s.a.p. Furthermore, if you feel that your tire needs more air, maybe it’s time to pump!

Conclusion

Now you know the dangers, should you drive on a flat tire?

Certainly not! More expert drivers consider a flat tire as a regular occurrence, but most are fully-equipped to address the problem. So, the next time this happens, you now know what to do and what are the worst things that may occur.

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