How Long Can a Car Sit on a Flat Tire? [What Happens]

In the United States, every second, 7 tires become punctured. It makes 220 million flat tires per year.

Statistics have it that only 42.2% of Americans can change a flat tire. So, you must know if your car can sit on a flat tire for a long time.

We must know how long a car can sit on a flat tire. This will prevent us from making our car sit on a flat tire overnight.

Your car can sit on a flat tire for 3 days. But do not wait for that long before you fix your tire.

Leaving a car with a flat tire is not a good idea. Your tire can have irreparable damage.

As the tire carries the weight of the vehicle, its fabric will be destroyed. Mechanics will always advise you to replace the tire as soon as possible.

The tire will have structural damage if it sits flat for a long time. After 5 days, it will have cracks.

But you can drive for a hundred miles with a flat tire. It will be this long before the tire will give up.

Here is an interesting video that will show you what will happen if your car will sit on a flat tire.

What Happens if you Drive on a Flat Tire

Factors That Affect a Flat Tire

There are certain factors why fix-a-flat is not effective. They are the following:

Tire Damage

The length of time that a car can sit on a flat tire depends on the puncture. If it is small, it is easy to seal.

If the damage is 1/4^th of an inch, the tire will be risky to use on the road.

Weather and Road Condition

It is not good to drive on a flat tire in cold weather conditions. The sealant may freeze and the fix-a-flat may not be effective.

There will be an imbalance in the tires.

Amount of Sealant

The life of the tire depends on the amount of sealant. An exorbitant amount can give damage to the wheel’s rim.

Why Do Tires Go Flat?

Maybe you should know why you can have a flat tire. Knowing can prevent this thing.

The following is the reasons why you can have a flat tire overnight:

• Sharp Objects
• Valve Steam Leak
• Tire Bead Leaks
• Damaged Wheels
• Vandalism
• High Temperatures
• An Issue with Tire Mounting
• Improperly Sealed Tire

Here is a video that will further explain to you the reasons for a flat tire:

The Things That Will Happen If the Flat Tire Will Sit Too Long

1. Flat Spots Will Be Developed

If the tire is deflated, it can be flattened. A flat spot can be developed.

The tire can have a crack. The result will be a flat tire.

2. Elements Can Cause Erosion

Heat can inflate the tire. The cold weather can decrease the pressure.

When the tire is deflated, the tire will be flat. The cracks in the tire are caused by UV rays.

3. There Will Be Tire Bubbles

Bubbles in the tire can be formed. You can see bubbles on the tire if a flat tire will sit too long.

Though, there can be internal bubbles that cannot be seen.

4. Tire Will Deteriorate

Because the tire is in one position for so long, it can deteriorate. You cannot stop the damage once it starts.

Slow leaks can be the result and you will be at risk of an accident.

How To Avoid Having a Flat Tire

You can avoid getting a flat tire. Have some practical tips.

• Have regular tire pressure checks
• Move the tires
• Get the car off the ground
• Have the right size of tires
• Check the tires for patches
• Make the wheels aligned
• Cover the tires to avoid exposure
• Drive with care

The Top 5 Causes of Flat Tires (Basics For Beginners)

FAQs

How Long Can You Drive with a Flat Tire?

You can drive with a flat tire for 3 days.

Will Leave the Flat Tire Overnight Damage the Rim?

Leaving the flat tire overnight will not damage the rim. The rim can be damaged if you drive on a flat tire overnight.

Can a Car Sit on a Rim Overnight?

The rim can be safe overnight. Just be sure that the tire has enough pressure.

Should I Inflate a Completely Flat Tire?

If the tire leaks air, you should inflate it immediately. But if the tire is damaged, you should repair it before inflating.

What You Should Do If You Have a Flat Tire at Night?

If you are traveling and do not have a spare tire, you should call a friend. You can also call an emergency roadside assistance company.

How Long Can Spare Tire Sit On?

You can drive with a spare tire for 70 miles.

How Can You Tell If the Tire is Flat or Just Needs Air?

You can do a spot check or a pressure test. If the tire has flat, it is low in the air.

How Much Will It Cost to Replace a Tire?

The cost of a tire for a standard car is $125. For pickup trucks and SUVs, it can cost $200.