Although tyre punctures are a fact of life for drivers, many can be avoided through careful driving and parking and can be fixed easily and safely with the correct equipment.
Most frequently punctures result when sharp objects like nails or glass penetrate the tyre causing air to escape. Here are further causes of punctures and tips to help you avoid each:
The valve stem is the tiny tyre protrusion used to inflate your tyre. When loose, clogged, corroded, or damaged, it causes air leakage. Examine your valve stem when checking your tyres and repair or replace where necessary.
Check your tyres for wear as this makes them more susceptible to punctures, a sudden loss of inflation and greater braking distance, which can lead to serious accidents.
The tyre bead is the edge of the tyre which rests on the rim and causes a flat tyre when leakage occurs around the circumference. Spray your wheels with soapy water if you suspect a leak. If bubbles emerge, see a tyre technician to confirm whether you have a puncture or not.
Park your car in a safe place to prevent vandalism and criminals letting the air out of your tyres.
The most common cause of separation between tyre and rim is a tyre hitting the curb. This causes a slow loss of air over time and needs an experienced tyre technician to fix the problem.
This extra tyre pressure is dangerous. At worst it can cause a sudden loss of inflation pressure and at best lead to tyres being taught and inflexible which makes them more susceptible to punctures should you hit a pothole.
Be vigilant while driving and do your best to avoid potholes, extremely uneven roads, and debris (including glass and nails), all of which can damage your car’s undercarriage, axles and wheels.