Flat Tyre? Here’s What to Do Next

You're cruising along when suddenly, your car jolts. The ride feels rough, and you hear a flapping sound. You pull over, step out, and there it is—your tyre deflating before your eyes.

A flat tyre can put a damper on any journey, but with a little know-how, you can get back on the road in no time. Here’s what to do if you find yourself with a flat and how to change it like a pro.

Can You Drive on a Flat Tyre?

Short answer: No, you shouldn’t.

While it might be tempting to limp your way to the nearest tyre shop, driving on a flat can do serious damage. A properly inflated tyre cushions the wheel rim, but when it goes flat, the rim takes the full force of the road. That can lead to costly wheel damage—turning a simple tyre replacement into an expensive repair.

If you get a flat, pull over as soon as it’s safe, put on your hazard lights, and either swap it out for your spare or call for help.

Is It Flat or Just Low on Air?

If you’re unsure whether your tyre is punctured or just low on air, time is your best clue.

• Slow air loss? Your tyre may just need inflating. Tyres naturally lose pressure over time.
• Rapid deflation? A puncture is the likely culprit. If your tyre suddenly goes flat, inspect it for any visible nails, cracks, or cuts.
• No visible damage? Check the valve stem—it could be loose or missing its cap.

How to Change a Flat Tyre

If you're prepared with a spare tyre and the right tools, changing a flat is easier than you think. Just follow these 16 simple steps:

🔧 What You’ll Need:

✔ Spare tyre ✔ Jack ✔ Lug wrench ✔ Vehicle manual ✔ Safety vest (optional but recommended) ✔ Reflective warning triangle (optional)

🚗 Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ Find a Safe Spot – Pull over on flat ground, away from traffic, and turn on your hazard lights. Engage the handbrake.

2️⃣ Check the Manual – Some cars have specific jacking points—your manual will guide you.

3️⃣ Remove the Hubcap – If your wheel has a hubcap, use the flat end of the lug wrench to pry it off.

4️⃣ Loosen the Lug Nuts – Turn the lug nuts counterclockwise with the wrench. They may be tight, so use your foot or body weight for extra force.

5️⃣ Position the Jack – Find the designated jacking point near the flat tyre and place the jack securely against the metal frame.

6️⃣ Lift the Car – Raise the car about 15cm off the ground. Never put your body under the car while it’s jacked up.

7️⃣ Remove the Lug Nuts – Fully unscrew and set them aside.

8️⃣ Take Off the Flat Tyre – Grip the tyre by the tread and pull it towards you. Lay it flat to prevent it from rolling away.

9️⃣ Mount the Spare – Align the holes with the lug bolts and slide it into place.

🔟 Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts – Screw them on as much as possible by hand.

1️⃣1️⃣ Lower the Car Slightly – Lower the jack just enough so the spare tyre touches the ground but the full weight isn’t on it.

1️⃣2️⃣ Tighten the Lug Nuts – Use the lug wrench to fully tighten each nut in a crisscross pattern for even pressure.

1️⃣3️⃣ Lower the Car Completely – Remove the jack once the tyre is secure.

1️⃣4️⃣ Reattach the Hubcap – If your car has one, snap it back into place.

1️⃣5️⃣ Pack Up – Store your tools and the flat tyre in the boot.

1️⃣6️⃣ Check the Spare Tyre Pressure – If it’s low, drive carefully to a service station and inflate it to the correct level.

Flat Tyre Repair vs. Replacement

Not all punctures mean the end of a tyre. Here’s when you can repair it and when you’ll need a new one:

✔ Small puncture (under 5mm in the tread area) – Can usually be patched. ❌ Large puncture, sidewall damage, or bead damage – Requires a full replacement. ❌ Old, worn-out tyre losing air – Time for a new tyre.

Final Tips

• Always carry a spare – If your car doesn’t have one, consider getting a space-saver spare or tyre repair kit.
• Regularly check tyre pressure – Keeping your tyres properly inflated reduces the risk of a flat.
• Replace old tyres – Even if they look fine, tyres lose grip and durability over time.

A flat tyre is never fun, but with the right knowledge, it’s just a minor bump in the road. Stay prepared, drive safely, and get that spare back in your boot as soon as possible! 🚗💨

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