Symptoms
- Visible nail, screw, or metal piece in the tread
- Hissing sound near the object
- Slowly dropping tire pressure
- TPMS light comes on
Likely causes
- CommonRoad debris punctured the treadNails and screws are common on roads and parking lots, especially near construction.
- PossibleObject is only in the tread, not through itSometimes debris embeds without fully puncturing the tire and causes no leak yet.
What to do
- Do not remove the nail or screw if the tire is still holding air; it may be plugging the hole.
- Check tire pressure and compare to the recommended PSI.
- Look at where the object is located: tread area is usually repairable, sidewall is usually not.
- If the tire is losing air quickly, add air temporarily and drive carefully to a tire shop or use the spare.
- If parked, you can drive short distances at low speed to reach a repair shop, but don't take the highway.
- Have a professional remove the object and patch the tire from the inside, not just plug it from the outside.
- Ask them to check the wheel and tire for other hidden damage while it's off the car.
Tools and parts
- Tire pressure gauge
- Air compressor
Tire plug patch kitSearch: “tire plug patch combo kit”
When to call a pro
If the nail is in the sidewall or within about an inch of it, the tire usually can't be safely repaired and needs replacing; a tire shop can confirm.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.