Nail in the Tire? Smart Solutions to Save Time, Effort, and Money
Cars depreciate in value from the moment of purchase and wear out over time. One of the most noticeable signs of wear is often seen in the tires. The lifespan of tires depends on factors such as climate, road conditions, driving habits, installation, and maintenance. According to international standards, if tire treads wear down to a depth below 1.6 millimeters, replacement becomes necessary.
Encountering a nail is one of the most severe issues leading to tire wear. Rather than immediately resorting to towing, smart individuals use two tricks to efficiently address the issue, saving time, effort, and money.
Every vehicle is equipped with tires of different sizes and specifications. Almost all tires have a marking indicating tire tread wear, known as the Tread Wear Indicator (TWI), when the tread depth wears down to 1.6 millimeters. Ordinary tires for private cars, with normal usage, can last between 50,000 to 100,000 kilometers. Tires also contribute to comfort, handling, and traction.
If a tire is punctured by a nail, two commonly used methods by experienced drivers can save time, effort, and money. First, inspect the punctured tire by adding a few drops of mineral water or a beverage at the nail location. Observe for bubbles; if none appear, indicating no air leakage, cautiously drive to the nearest repair shop for a tire fix. Alternatively, if the tire is already deflated, use the spare tire to drive to a nearby repair shop where the damaged tire can be repaired, and the spare tire replaced.
To minimize tire punctures, it’s advisable to choose routes with better road conditions and drive at low speeds when compelled to traverse poor roads. Regularly inspecting the tire treads for sharp stones or nails and promptly addressing any findings can help prevent tire punctures.
It’s essential to be aware that vehicle tires have a shelf life and should be replaced within five years from the manufacturing date, regardless of wear. Keeping track of the production and usage time of vehicle tires can prevent unnecessary safety risks due to negligence.
