The seriousness of tyre punctures varies according to the nature of the damage and the extent of the penetration. The following symptoms may indicate a tyre puncture:
Loss of tyre pressure
Immediate tyre deflation
Wheels wobbling or shuddering
Difficulty steering your car
Car pulling to the left or right as if pulled in that direction
Ignoring these symptoms can cause unnecessary tyre damage and the disintegration of the tyre components. Even more importantly, you could be putting yourself and passengers at risk by leaving you stranded.
It’s a good idea to keep a tyre sealant in your car. Note that if your tyre is ripped more than 4mm wide your tyre repair kit is unlikely to work.
If you suspect a puncture, turn off the road safely and gently and follow these steps:
When several metres away from the traffic and in a secure place, stop your car and apply the handbrake.
Guide passengers from the car to a safe place.
Take your tyre sealant from the boot of your car (and compressor, should you have one).
Locate the puncture.
Replace the damaged tyre with the spare.
If you spot a nail or piece of glass in the tyre, do not remove or this will cause a bigger hole.
Should you need to repair your tyre on the roadside, use the sealant by following the instructions as mechanisms in these repair kits vary.
After repairing your tyre, check if your car is in neutral, then start the engine and switch on your compressor.
Inflate the tyre to the correct PSI/Bar recommended in your vehicle handbook.
When driving off don’t exceed the maximum speed detailed in the car’s handbook and on the repair kit.
A repaired tyre using a repair kit is a temporary measure and only meant to help get you to a safe place. Drive to Kent-Tyres and have it properly repaired or replaced as soon as possible.