How To Flatten A Tire Quickly And Legally

  • It doesn’t matter that the tire itself is not damaged; you have damaged the functionality of the tire
  • It Is illegal to deflate someone’s tires. Remember that!
  • Some used tire places will sell you a used tire with this type of damage for really cheap
  • When getting a tire repaired they may tell you that they cannot repair it and you should buy a new tire

There is more than one way to skin a cat. How to flatten a tire, though, there are many ways. You can buy fancy tools, use what you have laying around, or sometimes you can even simply just use your finger. It doesn’t have to be boring. You can have some fun flattening someone’s tire. But is it illegal to deflate someone’s tires?

There can be more than one reason to let the air out of your tire. Maybe you over-inflated it?  Maybe the front driver side tire is more inflated than the passenger side? Or maybe you’re going to the sand and you want some better tire grip? Or maybe you need some extra grip for the street race you are heading to tonight.

Any reason you have you can find it very easy to quickly and simply let the air out of your tires. So let’s dive into everything you need to know about the subject including if you are breaking the law.

How To Flatten A Tire Fast: A Simple Step By Step

Pro Tip: You can use many different objects as a tool to press on the pin. Commonly used pieces are a screwdriver, the backside of a pressure gauge, key, shoelace tip, or even a belt buckle pin.

The idea is to use something stiff enough to press the pin in. Make sure to not use something like a stick or something dirty that can leave a residue or something that will block the flow of air.

At a gas station, you can use the corner of the inflator gun. Some are specifically designed for this exact function. Let’s continue how to flatten a tire:

It really is just as simple as that. With something so simple there is there are some things to note bout how to flatten a tire:

  • If the pin is not screwed incompletely it can get loose and lose air. Though this is not common and it usually happens during install or from a prank.
  • Caps will protect the tire’s valve stem from damage so don’t lose them.
  • Tires are made of rubber and last only a few years even if they are not being used. The sun is NOT rubber’s friend.
  • Pay attention to the pressure limit written on the sidewall of every tire.
  • Overinflated = Better MPG & worse road grip. Under-inflated = Worse MPG & better road grip on-road and offroad.
  • Hole in tread = fixable. Hole in the sidewall or corner of tire = NOT fixable

When getting a tire repaired they may tell you that they cannot repair it and you should buy a new tire. This is common and it is not a scam. A tire manufacturer or auto repair shop cannot warranty a tire when it is damaged on the sidewall or on the tread even within an inch(es) of the sidewall.

This is universal. They are open to more liability as a repair in these parts of the tire is not secure. They don’t want you to blow the tire driving in normal conditions and cause an accident. Thank all those sue-happy people out there for this one.

Protip: Some used tire places will sell you a used tire with this type of damage for really cheap. Though they should tell you these tires could fail for no reason without warning.

The tire will just blow out when you are driving. Or not, nobody can tell. Some people this tire in a pinch but they should be the last resort of no resort if any other option is available. Use at your own discretion and understand the consequences.

Is It Illegal To Deflate Someone’s Tires?

Yes, it is! Now that you’re an expert in the art of tire deflation you’re thinking about how you can use this power. Do you want to use it as a practical joke for your significant other? Or maybe the overconfident guy at work that peaked in high school and is the last to realize.

If you want to deflate someone’s tires as a joke you can do it and it would still be illegal, but so is getting into a firework fight. It may be dangerous or illegal but it can be a lotta fun. But what would happen if you really pissed them off and they want to do something about it?

What Are The Consequences If Is It Illegal To Deflate Someone’s Tires?

Well, your friend would think it is funny or maybe he or she wouldn’t. But they would have a hassle on their hands. They can even take it one step further. The police can charge you with any combination of vandalism, malice, and even property damage.

You have committed an act of vandalism which may be prosecuted as criminal mischief in many jurisdictions. It doesn’t matter that the tire itself is not damaged; you have damaged the functionality of the tire. Each state will look at this differently so check with your local laws to see what specific laws you will be violating, you rascal you.

I shouldn’t have to mention that slashing someone’s tires is a big no-no as well. It is highly illegal and an all-around douche move. Unless they stole your parking spot or followed too closely behind you for a second. Then it’s basically The Purge out there…

One trick I’ve read if you really want to give someone a flat tire is to step on their shoe very quickly and stealthy. That can work like a god damned charm.

Don’t Let It Happen To You

Maintaining a car can be a lot of work. But it doesn’t have to be if you know your way around your car. It is a complex machine. With some basic knowledge, it can be easy to learn and perform the key basic tasks to maintaining a healthy car. This can easily make a car last a long time or keep the resale value higher than average.

Sometimes you need to service your tires or maybe you are buying some fresh wheels. Make sure you know how to flatten a tire safely and confidently.

Note: I am not a lawyer and this should not be taken as legal advice. Consult a lawyer before attempting anything mentioned above.