What happens if a tire has low pressure and hasn’t been fully deflated before removal?

When a tire has low pressure and hasn’t been fully deflated before removal, the most concerning outcome is the risk of a zipper rupture. Zipper ruptures occur when there is significant internal damage or weakness in the tire’s structure, often exacerbated by the stress of movement or pressure changes. If the tire remains partially inflated, the changes in pressure can further stress the weakened areas, leading to a sudden failure when the tire is manipulated during removal.

Addressing other options, while low pressure could potentially lead to a blowout, this is more associated with over-inflation or sudden impacts rather than just low pressure alone. The removal process may be complicated with low pressure, but it can still be conducted safely if precautions are taken. Lastly, it is not standard practice to leave tires inflated during removal due to the safety hazards posed by the remaining air pressure. Proper procedures dictate that tires should always be deflated before removal to minimize risks.