Tire Losing Air Slowly? Common Causes of a Slow Leak

What Counts as a Slow Leak?

A slow leak is a tire that needs air again within days of being filled. The pressure drops gradually instead of all at once, so the tire can look fine and still keep falling below where it should be.

What Commonly Causes a Slow Leak?

• A nail or puncture: a small object in the tread can let air out slowly.
• A leaking valve stem: the valve you add air through can wear and let air seep out.
• A bead leak at the rim: air seeps out where the edge of the tire meets the wheel.

Cold weather can also lower pressure with no leak at all. Air contracts as it cools, so a tire that was fine in warm weather can read low on the first cold morning.

What Can I Check Myself?

Measure the pressure with a gauge when the tires are cold and compare it with the sticker in the driver door jamb. If a tire is low, add air to that number and see whether it holds over the next few days.

When Should a Technician Look at It?

If one tire keeps dropping, it needs to be inspected, not just refilled. If a tire looks visibly flat, do not drive on it. We repair tires with a plug or a patch, and we look at the tire first to tell you which one it needs.

Can a Slow Leak Turn On the TPMS Light?

Yes. A solid TPMS light usually means at least one tire is low on pressure. We also do TPMS service, including reset and relearn. For what the light means and what to do about it, see the TPMS posts and the TPMS Repair page linked below.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I just add air? Adding air to the pressure on the door jamb sticker, measured cold, is the right first step. If the same tire drops again within days, it needs to be inspected.
• Can cold weather make a tire lose air? Yes. Air contracts as it cools, so pressure falls when the temperature drops even when nothing is leaking.
• Where can I get my tire patched? We repair flat tires at 11900 Annapolis Rd, Glenn Dale, MD. If you cannot drive on the tire, ask about mobile tire service or roadside assistance. Call (227) 218-5688.
• Do you sell new and used tires? Yes. We sell new and used tires. Call (227) 218-5688 to confirm sizes and stock.