THUMP! Flap, flap, flap. Argh, the tell-tale sounds of a punctured tyre and the soundtrack to a crappy day. So how can you fix a tyre puncture, and what can you do to prevent it from happening in the first place?
What causes a punctured tyre?
A tyre puncture is generally caused by sudden distress, such as running over a sharp object (e.g. glass, screws, nails, or sharp stones) or impact caused by poor road conditions (a pothole or jagged road edging). Tyres that are in poor condition or are over-inflated are at much higher risk of puncture.
How to know if you have a punctured tyre
Aside from the tell-tale sounds of a sudden puncture, there are a number of other signs that might indicate a tyre puncture:
- Sudden loss of tyre pressure
- A sense of wobbling or shuddering
- Feeling like the car is ‘pulling’ to one side
How to fix a tyre puncture yourself
It’s certainly possible to fix a tyre puncture yourself, but it’s rarely the best option.
In the event that you’re a long way from help, it is possible to fix a tyre puncture by using a tyre puncture repair kit. If you’re planning a trip to a remote area, make sure you have a kit packed and ready to go. So if you must repair your own tyre puncture:
- Ensure your car is safely away from the road, and that the handbrake is engaged.
- Follow the instructions in your car manufacturer’s manual to remove the wheel.
- Look for the cause of the puncture. If the puncture has been caused by glass or another sharp object, do not remove it! Removal may create a larger hole for repair, or cause injury.
- Follow the instructions in your repair kit.
- Get yourself to a professional tyre fitter as soon as possible for replacement or a professional repair.
Avoid DIY tyre repair wherever possible
It will almost always be safer, and cheaper, to not fix a tyre puncture, but fit a spare or call your roadside assistance provider. Generally speaking, a puncture repair is best executed by a professional tyre fitter.
Tips for preventing a tyre puncture
Sadly there’ll be a time for most of us when a simple case of bad luck delivers us a tyre puncture. That said, there are a few things you can do to prevent tyre punctures, all of which are good practices for good tyre health and safety.
Check your tyre tread
Remove any embedded stones or sharp objects as soon as you notice them, and check your tyre tread regularly for wear and tear.
Keep those tyres pumped up
All tyres should be kept inflated to manufacturer-recommended pressure levels. Don’t forget your spare tyre – you never know when you might need it!
Increase pressure for heavy loads
If you’re towing or carrying a heavy load, increase your tyre pressure according to the instructions in your car manufacturer’s manual.
Drive carefully
Avoiding potholes and other road hazards, particularly at speed, will reduce your risk of a tyre puncture. Where it is safe to avoid running over debris on the road, do so.
Wheel alignment
Keeping your wheels aligned as part of your regular servicing schedule is an important way to keep your tyres safe from uneven wear.
When does a punctured tyre need to be replaced?
A punctured tyre will almost always need to be replaced. Once punctured, the tyre is compromised from a safety point of view. Leave this decision to a professional tyre fitter or seek advice from your roadside assistance service.
The best cure for tyre puncture is prevention
That’s why we inspect your tyres every time your vehicle is here for a service and will rotate them at regular intervals to maximise their lifespan. If we notice your tread wearing down, we’ll let you know when it’s time for a replacement. Along with regular wheel alignment servicing, this will keep your tyres in the best condition to avoid the dreaded ‘THUMP flap flap flap’!
Our specialist technicians provide the highest quality workmanship and customer service for all your car servicing and tyre needs. As soon as you notice any warning signs that your tyres or wheels are past their best, book a service. We will assess the condition of your tyres and provide you with honest, reliable advice on the best course of action.
Need to get somewhere while your vehicle is being serviced at Cox Auto? As well as a fleet of courtesy cars, we offer a complimentary pick-up and drop-off service via Uber within 10 km of our centre in South Melbourne.
