At a certain point in life, every car owner experiences a flat tire. This scenario is even more stressing when you experience it during inclement weather or late at night. To make the matter worse, a flat tire may jeopardize a driver’s life if it happens in an unsafe location.
While there is no sure way of mitigating this kind of a problem, regular maintenance and tire repair may help to point some underlying issue and help to reduce the probability of the occurrence.
Read on to learn more about what causes flat tires and how you can avoid them.
1. SHARP OBJECTS ON THE ROAD
Sharp objects such as nails, shrapnel, and glass are the common causes of punctures that result in flat tires. Some of these objects are too small to see with the naked eye on the road.
PREVENTION
While it can be complicated to perceive some of the sharp objects on the road, it is imperative to take the necessary measures on what we can prevent. For instance, you should always avoid puncture and blowouts by driving around debris in the parking lot and on the road.
2. BAD ROADS
Potholes, uneven pavements, and unexpected debris are every driver’s nightmare. Apart from wrecking the axle and suspension system of your car, they will cost you on tire repair. Such roads increase the chances of getting a flat.
PREVENTION
Safe driving is the best proactive measure when driving on bad road conditions. More importantly, always make sure you leave ample space between you and the car in front of you to keep a keen eye on the portholes.
3. OVER-PUMPED TIRES
Air pressure that surpasses the preset limit causes bursting of the tire in question. In addition, this pressure situation may create dangerous situations on the road through tire blowouts.
PREVENTION
Do not jeopardize your life on the road. Consult a tire repair specialist to understand the recommended PSI for your car’s tires and always stick to it.
4. WEAR AND TEAR
As you drive your car through uneven pavements and portholes just to mention a few, the tires are bound to wear and tear—it is a natural process. This process is one of the major causative factors of blowouts and flat tires.
PREVENTION
To prevent fast wear and tear of tires always:
• Avoid fast starts and stops
• Keep your wheel properly aligned
• Maintain recommended tire pressure
• Visit tire repair shop to have your wheels rotated regularly
5. VALVE STEM LEAKAGE
Your car tire may not have any signs of a puncture but keeps on going flat. This is an indication that your valve stem may be leaking.
PREVENTION
Every time you take your car for regular maintenance have your local auto repair shop examine the stem valve to check for any signs of damage.
CONCLUSION
Flat tires can be mitigated but not completely avoided. While these vital car components play a crucial role in keeping you safe on the road, they may also jeopardize lives through blowouts and eventually road accidents. That is why you should keep them in good conditions.
For information on what causes flats, how you can avoid them, and flat tire
