8 Common Flat Tire Causes and How You Can Avoid Them

When you operate a vehicle of some kind, you know that there will be risks present on the road. From getting into an accident, to speeding dangers, driving will bring about various risks of some kind. Sometimes, these risks may have to do with the car itself, in which the vehicle may be obstructed in some capacity.

Your car’s tires are a vital component of your vehicle, as you simply cannot move without them. However, since they are so exposed to external elements, they remain vulnerable to becoming damaged. This damage may then result in a flat tire, which is more common than one would realize.

The following flat tire causes are the usual suspects:

Cause #1: Sharp objects

Sharp objects are one of the most common flat tire causes. Driving on any sort of surface presents a risk to the car’s tires. There could be a variety of materials present that could puncture the tire in totality. Some of these materials may be invisible to the naked eye, which makes detecting them all the more difficult. Sharp objects are one of the most common sources of tires going flat.

The extent of sharp object damage to your tires can range as well, from minor to major damage. Should it be the former, your tire will slowly lose air inside, until it becomes flat. For extensive damage caused by a sharp object, your tire will lose its functionality immediately. Be careful while on the road, in order to avoid these materials.

Cause #2: Worn out tire

Even though a good set of tires are made to last for a long time, they are not impervious to damage. Overtime, a tire’s shelf life will deteriorate, due to a large number of factors. Constant use of the vehicle, for example, will cause the tire to lose its lustre. The tires used on a daily basis will eventually show signs of wear and tear.

In terms of prolonged use, a tire will eventually go flat if it is not repaired as soon as possible. Thankfully, there are a number of ways in which you can extend the tire’s lifespan. Make sure to always rotate your tires every month, so that they are primed for travel again. That way, you won’t have to worry about them going flat.

Cause #3: Overinflated tires

Regular maintenance of your vehicle should always be conducted, especially if your car is an older model. When you turn your attention to the tires, be sure to inspect the air pressure. If your tire in question is less inflated than usual, proceed to inflate it. However, be wary about how much air you put inside.

Overinflating your tires can put an undue amount of stress onto the wheel itself. Should you continue to use the tire, it will inevitably burst, which leads to a flattened tire. Always double check the pressure inside of the tire, and then pump air into it in a diligent manner.

Cause #4: Tire and rim separation

In some unfortunate circumstances, you may find yourself getting into an accident with your car. If the collision, for example, is broad enough, your tires will be adversely affected by the impact. Normally, they should still be in good condition. However, if the impact was major, the rim may be separated from the tire.

A slow loss of air will occur overtime within the tire, if the wheel is not repaired immediately. Take the time to inspect the tire, in order to determine if the rim is properly secured to the wheel in question.

Cause #5: Tire bead leakage

The tire is a component of your wheel that is comprised of several other parts. One of the most important parts is the tire bead, which sits upon the aforementioned rim. If you use your tires for a long period of time, the tire bead may deteriorate. In order to prevent air from slowly leaking out of this issue, speak with a reputable mechanic, to diagnose the problem at hand.

Cause #6: Valve stem damage

Another important feature of your tire is the valve steam, which can be the source of inadvertent air leakages. A valve stem that suffers from corrosion may cause air to leak out of the tire, which inevitably causes the tire to go flat.

Cause #7: Road hazards

There may be other external factors to be cognizant of, while you are driving on the road. Potholes, for example, can be quite the nuisance to deal with. If you happen to drive over even the smallest of potholes, a tire could go flat from the impact.

Cause #8: Unexpected sources

Even the most unexpected elements encountered can cause your tires to go flat. Sometimes, your tires may be affected due to actions such as vandalism. Or, overloading your vehicle can put more stress on the car. Always inspect your tires regularly, so that you can take pre-emptive action on them as a result!