What to Do When Your Car Tyre Punctures

A tyre puncture is a common issue that can happen to any driver. Knowing what to do when your car tyre punctures can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you handle this situation safely and efficiently.

Stay Calm and Find a Safe Spot: When you realise you have a punctured tyre, stay calm and look for a safe place to pull over. Avoid stopping in dangerous areas like the middle of the road or near sharp bends. Ideally, find a flat, straight stretch of road with enough space to park your car away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your situation.

Gather Your Tools: Before attempting to change the tyre, gather all the necessary tools. You’ll need:

• A spare tyre
• A car jack
• A wheel wrench
• Wheel chocks
• Gloves (optional but recommended)

These items are typically found in the boot of your car. If you’re unsure where they are, check your vehicle’s manual for guidance.

Secure Your Vehicle: Once you’re safely parked, engage the handbrake and place the car in gear (or in “Park” if you have an automatic transmission). Place wheel chocks (or large stones) in front of and behind the wheel opposite the flat tyre to prevent your car from rolling.

Loosen the Lug Nuts: Before jacking up the car, use the wheel wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tyre. Turn them counterclockwise, but don’t remove them completely yet. Loosening them while the car is still on the ground makes it easier to remove the tyre later.

Lift the Car with the Jack: Place the jack under the car’s jacking point nearest to the flat tyre. Refer to your vehicle’s manual if you’re unsure where this is. Slowly raise the car until the flat tyre is off the ground. Make sure the car is stable before you proceed.

Remove the Flat Tyre: Now that the car is lifted, finish unscrewing the lug nuts and remove the flat tyre. Place the lug nuts in a safe spot where they won’t roll away. Carefully pull the tyre off the hub and set it aside.

Install the Spare Tyre: Align the spare tyre with the wheel bolts and slide it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible. Ensure the tyre is seated correctly and securely.

Lower the Car and Tighten the Lug Nuts: Use the jack to slowly lower the car until the spare tyre is just touching the ground. At this point, you can begin tightening the lug nuts with the wheel wrench. Tighten them in a star pattern (opposite pairs) to ensure even pressure. Once they’re snug, lower the car completely and remove the jack.

Check the Tyre Pressure: After installing the spare tyre, check its pressure with a tyre gauge. The recommended pressure can usually be found in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. If the spare tyre’s pressure is too low, drive cautiously to the nearest service station to inflate it.

Drive to a Repair Shop: A spare tyre is a temporary solution designed to get you to a repair shop safely. Drive slowly and avoid long distances or high speeds. Head to a tyre repair shop to have your punctured tyre professionally repaired or replaced.

Know When to Call for Help: If you’re unable to change the tyre yourself or if the situation feels unsafe, don’t hesitate to call for roadside assistance. Many insurance policies include this service, or you can contact a local tow company. Your safety is the priority.

Prevent Future Punctures: While you can’t always avoid punctures, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Regularly check your tyre pressure, avoid driving over debris, and keep an eye on the condition of your tyres. Consider carrying a tyre repair kit in your car for minor punctures.

By following these steps, you can handle a car tyre puncture with confidence. Being prepared and knowing what to do can turn a potentially stressful situation into a manageable task. Keep your tools handy, stay calm, and get back on the road safely.