🚗 Car Problems
How to Fix a Flat Tyre
Getting a flat tyre is stressful but manageable. Many modern cars do not come with a spare wheel — they have a repair kit instead. Here is what to do in both cases.
Likely causes
- Puncture from a nail or screw
- Kerb damage causing a slow leak
- Valve stem failure
- Tyre sidewall damage
- General wear causing a blowout
Step-by-step fix
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1
Pull over safely
Do not brake suddenly. Ease off the accelerator and steer gently to a safe location away from traffic. Put on your hazard lights.
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2
Do not drive on a flat
Driving even short distances on a completely flat tyre can destroy the tyre, wheel, and suspension.
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3
Use the tyre repair foam kit if provided
Modern cars often have a foam inflation kit instead of a spare. Attach the canister to the tyre valve and follow the instructions. This is a temporary fix for small punctures only.
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4
Change the wheel if you have a spare
Loosen the wheel nuts slightly before jacking, then jack the car up (check your manual for jack points), remove the flat, fit the spare. Do not drive above 50mph on a space-saver spare.
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5
Call for breakdown assistance
If you have no spare and no repair kit works, call your breakdown provider.
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6
Get the tyre repaired or replaced
Take the flat to a tyre shop as soon as possible. Small punctures in the centre of the tread can often be repaired for £15-25. Sidewall damage always requires a new tyre.