What to do if a car tire slowly deflates?

It can happen to any motorist: you get into your car, drive a bit and notice that one of your tires doesn't feel quite right. Upon inspection, you discover that the tire is slowly deflating. This problem can develop gradually and often means that you don't notice it right away. However, a slowly deflating tire can lead to dangerous situations. That's why it's important to act quickly. In this blog, we'll discuss the causes of a slowly deflating tire and what you can do to solve this problem.

Causes of a slowly deflating tire

1. Nails or sharp objects
   One of the most common causes of a slow tire going flat is a nail, glass, or other sharp object that has become lodged in the tire. Often, the object will remain in the tire, causing the air to slowly escape instead of flattening the tire immediately.

2. Bad valve
   A leaking valve can also be the cause of a slowly deflating tire. The valve is the small part where you pump air into the tire. If it is damaged or does not close properly, air can escape.

3. Wheel cracks or damage to the rim
   Sometimes air can escape through small cracks in the rim or between the tire and the rim. This can be caused by damage while riding, such as hitting a curb.

4. Tire wear
   Wear and tear from high mileage or age can cause the tyre to seal less well, especially at the sides. A worn tyre can lose air more easily.

What to do if a tire slowly deflates?

1. Check tire pressure regularly
   If you notice that your tire pressure drops more often than normal, it is wise to first check the tire pressure of all tires. You can do this by using the Donrox tire pump. Make sure you know what the correct pressure is for your vehicle (this information is displayed in the Donrox pump).

2. Visual inspection
   Visually inspect the tire for damage or foreign objects, such as nails or glass. Also look closely at the valve stem. If you see anything strange, such as an object sticking into the tire, this is probably the source of the problem.

3. Test valve
   The valve is a delicate part that can easily let air escape. Unscrew the valve cap and apply a little soapy water to the valve. If bubbles appear, the valve is leaking. In that case, you can try replacing the valve. This is often a relatively simple and cheap solution.

4. Using a tire sealant
   If you are on the road and you notice that your tire is slowly deflating, a tire sealant can provide a temporary solution. This is a foamy substance that you can spray into the tire. It fills small holes and allows you to continue driving for a while. Please note: this is only a temporary solution. It is important to have the tire repaired afterwards.

5. Tire repair
   For a permanent solution, it is advisable to have your tire repaired at a garage or tire service. They can dismantle the tire, locate the leak and repair it with a patch or plug. If the tire is too badly damaged, it may need to be replaced.

6. Preventive measures

   • Regular tire check : Have your tires checked regularly by a professional. This prevents small problems from developing into large, expensive repairs.
   • Maintain proper tire pressure : Check the pressure at least once a month. Correct tire pressure extends the life of the tire and reduces the chance of damage.

When to replace the tire?

In some cases, a slowly deflating tire can no longer be repaired. This can happen if:

• The leak is located on the sidewall of the tire.
• The tire is severely worn or has multiple damages.
• The tire is outdated (tires lose their quality after about six years).

If you notice that the tire keeps going flat, despite previous repairs, it is time to buy a new tire. Safety first!