When talking about tyres, a ‘puncture’ is when a foreign object penetrates the tyre, allowing air to escape. That being said, not all punctures cause flat tyres and not all flat tyres are caused by punctures.
Typically, nails are the most common cause of punctures, and in many cases, they have a slow leak that takes some time before the damage is noticed.
A flat tyre is something you may not have given much thought to until it actually happens. Not everyone would have the knowledge and necessary tools on hand in the event of a tyre puncture.
That’s why we are going to answer some of the common questions asked by customers, including ‘Can I drive on a flat tyre?’, and ‘What are the signs I’m driving on a flat tyre?’.
Can I drive on a flat tyre?
The short answer is: no. Driving on a flat tyre can result in decreased car handling capabilities and can potentially result in significant damage to vehicle components, such as the steering system, brakes, alignment of the wheels, suspension, wheels and so on.
In some situations, it is ok to travel a very short distance at a decreased speed, such as to pull your car over in a safe location out of the way of traffic. However, whenever possible, you should avoid driving on a flat tyre at all.
If your vehicle is equipped with run-flat tyres, you are able to keep driving even if you get a puncture. This is because run-flat tyres are designed to maintain a reasonable level of handling, durability, and performance even if they get punctured.
Many run flat tyres are rated for up to 80 km of distance, at a maximum speed of 80kph. This will get you back to a tyre shop where you can have your tyre repaired or replaced.
What are the signs I’m driving on a flat tyre?
If your vehicle is fitted with a TPMS, or Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, you’ll be able to tell you have a flat tyre when your tyre pressure warning light is on. Other warning signs that will tell you you have a flat tyre are:
- Apparent flatness or sagging
- A lot of vibration when driving
- Depending on which side of the affected tyre is on, your car may want to veer to one side or the other.
- You hear a booming or thumping sound
- Sluggish acceleration
If you notice any of these symptoms, pull over to the side of the road in a safe spot and inspect your tyres for damage.
If you’re unfamiliar with your vehicle tool kit, aren’t in a safe place to change a tyre, or you’re having difficulty with your spare, the safest option in this situation is to call for roadside assistance. Remember to put your hazard lights on, this gives other traffic a heads up that you’re in a potentially broken down or immobile vehicle.
If you manage to replace your punctured tyre with a spare one, bring the damaged wheel and tyre to your nearest Tyrepower store so we can assess the condition of your damaged tyre. Our tyre puncture repair service involves the removal of the tyre to inspect its condition and suitability for repair.
Services at Tyrepower
Tyrepower stores are your locally owned and operated wheel and tyre stores. We stock tyres and wheels from quality brands for cars, 4WDs, SUVs, and trucks from the biggest brands
Apart from tyre puncture repairs, at Tyrepower, we offer a wide range of automotive services, including mechanical repairs, and battery testing, along with a number of other relevant services to improve the performance and longevity of your tyres. This includes wheel alignment and balancing and tyre fitting. At Tyrepower, we'll even ensure that your old tyre is recycled through our TSA affiliation!
Repair your flat tyre at Tyrepower
If you have the unfortunate experience of a tyre puncture, Tyrepower can help.
If you are able to fit a space saver or regular spare tyre on your car, come to nearest Tyrepower store, and we’ll give you some options for either fixing the punctured tyre or replacing it if necessary.
Alternatively, you can use our website to book online and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.
