What to Do When You Have a Flat Tyre

Having a flat tyre can be a frustrating experience, but knowing how to handle it safely and efficiently can make all the difference. Here are some steps to follow from your trusted Alloy Experts when your wheel needs changing due to a flat tyre:

Safety Measures on the Side of the Road

We spoke to one of Peterborough’s RAC Approved Garage’s about best practices for repairs at the side of the road. Here’s four essential tips we both decided on:

1. Find a Safe Location: If you experience a flat tyre while driving, try to find a safe spot to pull over. Move to the side of the road as far away from traffic as possible.
2. Turn on Hazard Lights: Once you have stopped in a safe location, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle is stationary.
3. Use Warning Triangles: If you have them available, place warning triangles or behind your vehicle to further warn approaching traffic.
4. Stay Inside the Vehicle: It is safer to remain inside your vehicle while waiting for assistance, especially if you are on a busy road.

How Far/ Fast You Can Drive on a Spare Tyre

Spare tyres, also known as “donuts” or compact spare tyres, are designed for temporary use only. They are not meant for long distances or high speeds. It is recommended to drive at reduced speeds (usually around 50 mph) and avoid driving more than 50-70 miles on a spare tire.

Determining if You Need a New Tyre or if it Can Be Repaired

We spoke to our expert alloy repair technicians who said when assessing whether your tyre needs replacement or repair, you should consider the following factors:

1. Tyre Tread Depth: Check the tread depth of your tyre. If it is below the recommended depth (typically 2/32 of an inch), it may need replacement.
2. Puncture Size and Location: If the puncture is larger than 1/4 inch in diameter or located on the sidewall of the tire, it may not be repairable.
3. Age of the Tyre: Tyres degrade over time, even if they have not been used much. If your tyre is older than six years, it may be time for a replacement.

Changing a Tyre Step by Step

Secure the Vehicle

Place wheel wedges or chocks in front of or behind the tires to prevent the vehicle from moving while you change the tye. If you’re changing a rear tire, place the chocks on the opposite side of the vehicle.

Remove the Hubcap or Wheel Cover

If your vehicle has a hubcap or wheel cover, it might be easier to remove it before lifting the vehicle with the jack. Use the flat end of the lug wrench or your hands (if possible) to pry it off. Set it aside in a safe place.

Loosen the Lug Nuts

Using the lug wrench, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise until you break their resistance. You may need to use force, and that’s okay. Do not remove the lug nuts yet; just loosen them enough to break their resistance. Remember: “Left loosey, righty tighty.”

Use the Car Jack

Place the car jack under the vehicle frame near the tyre that you are going to change. Ensure that the jack is in contact with a solid part of the frame and not just resting on a plastic panel. Start lifting the vehicle with the jack until the tyre is about six inches above the ground. This will provide enough clearance for you to remove and replace the tire safely.

Unscrew and Remove the Lug Nuts

Now that you have lifted the vehicle, use your hands to fully unscrew and remove the lug nuts. They may still be somewhat tight, but you should be able to remove them without much difficulty after breaking their resistance earlier. Place them in a secure location where they won’t roll away or get lost.

Remove and Replace with Spare Tyre

Pull the tyre towards you to remove it from its position on the wheel base. Once removed, place it flat with the alloy facing the sky so it won’t roll away or need an alloy refurbishment. Align your spare tyre with the wheel base and gently push it into position until it cannot be pushed any further by hand. Ensure that it is properly seated on all lug bolts or studs, and not at an angle or off-centre.

Replace and Tighten Lug Nuts

Replace and screw in each lug nut by hand as tightly as possible using a star pattern (tightening every other lug nut). Once they are all snugly hand-tightened, lower your vehicle using your car jack until it is fully on the ground but not bearing weight on its own yet. Finally, use your lug wrench to tighten each lug nut further using a star pattern until they are all as tight as possible without straining yourself or damaging any components. It’s important to apply even pressure when tightening lug nuts during this step, as uneven tightening can lead to expensive damage down the road. Once all lug nuts are tightened as much as possible with your lug wrench, lower your vehicle completely so that it is bearing weight on its own again. Remove any wheel wedges or chocks placed earlier for safety purposes before driving away slowly (to avoid damaging your new tire configuration). Inspect your now-mounted spare tyre regularly for proper air pressure levels and any signs of damage or wear while driving to your nearest mechanic centre or Alloy Refurbish Centre as soon as possible.

Waiting Safely for Assistance

While waiting for assistance with your flat tyre, remember these tips:

1. Stay Calm and Patient: Dealing with a flat tyre can be stressful, but staying calm will help you make better decisions.
2. Contact Roadside Assistance: If you are unable to change the tyre yourself or do not have the necessary tools, contact roadside assistance or a trusted independent garage.
3. Inform Someone: Let someone know about your situation and estimated time of arrival if you are waiting for help.

By following these guidelines and safety measures, you can effectively handle a flat tyre situation and ensure your safety on the road.