Getting a puncture while driving can be a major inconvenience for drivers. It can also pose a danger for the driver and other road users so it’s important to know what to do if this situation arises.
Flat tyres or slow punctures can go unnoticed for some time, but they should be fixed as soon as they're spotted. Symptoms of a slow puncture can include a ‘flapping’ noise or your car pulling to the right or left.
On the other hand, a puncture that happens suddenly can be frightening, particularly if you're driving at fast speeds or on the motorway.
First Things First - Pull Over Safely
If you get a puncture while driving on a local road, put on your indicator and pull over when it's safe to do so. While it may be tempting to drive until you get to your destination, continuing to drive on a puncture can damage your wheel. This will not be covered by your car insurance policy. Some punctures can even be repairable, so you can save yourself some money by changing the tyre as soon as possible immediately and then bringing the damaged tyre to one of the many car repair shops.
Driving at speed when you get a puncture can lead you to lose control of the car. If you're on the motorway when a puncture occurs, you may feel the steering wheel pull away from you.
- Do not put your foot on the break. Instead, put your hazard warning lights on to warn other drivers.
- Hold on to the steering wheel as tightly as you can.
- Avoid putting your foot on the break as your car could go into a spin.
- Put your foot on the clutch and reduce speed slowly, going down the gears until you come to a stop on the hard shoulder.
- Remember, never change your tyre on the hard shoulder of a motorway.
If you pull over on a local road, make sure it is in a safe location to change a tyre. If you're exposed to traffic, put up your reflective triangle to warn other motorists before you get to work.
How To Safely Change a Flat Tyre
What Equipment Do I Need to Change a Flat Tyre?
Firstly, you need to have the necessary equipment so stock your boot with the following essentials:
- Inflated Spare Tyre
- Car Jack
- Wheel Wrench
- Warning Triangle
- Torch
- First Aid Kit
- Warm Blanket
- Hi-Vis Jacket
- Wheel Nut Key – if locking nuts are fitted
- Wheel Wedges
- Gloves
- Flat Piece of Wood – to steady the car jack if the ground is uneven
- Tyre Pressure Gauge – to check if spare tyre is properly inflated
Changing Your Flat Tyre in 10 Easy Steps
Firstly, reduce your speed and pull over to a safe location. Then:
- Ensure You Are Parked Safely
If you suspect that you have a flat tyre, gradually reduce your speed and pull over to a safe location where the ground is level. - Get Prepared
Ensure your handbrake is on and ask all passengers to vacate the vehicle. Put on your hazard lights and apply wheel wedges to prevent the car from rolling. (If you have children with you, it’s advisable to remain in the car and call for assistance, as it would not be safe to have them on the roadside while you are occupied with changing the tyre). If you’re a RedClick customer, your policy may entitle you to avail of our Breakdown Assist option- for more information, please review your policy booklet. Phone 01 553 4040 to get the help you need. - Loosen the Wheel Nuts
Turn the wheel wrench anticlockwise and loosen the nuts to the point where they can be turned by hand, but don’t remove them fully yet. If necessary, you can use your foot on the wheel brace and your body weight will help loosen the tighter wheel nuts. - Jack the Car up
Position the jack at the dedicated jacking point under the frame of the car. Place a flat piece of wood under the jack to keep it steady. Raise the car up until the flat tyre is off the ground. - Remove the Flat Tyre
While the car is raised, remove the wheel nuts completely and gently take off the tyre and place it on its side. - Mount the Spare Tyre
Lift the tyre onto the hub making sure to align it correctly. Tighten the wheel nuts by hand. - Lower the Car
Slowly lower the car and tighten the wheel nuts completely now with the wrench. - Check the Tyre Pressure
If possible, use a tyre pressure gauge to check the spare wheel is fully inflated. - Drive Carefully
If your spare tyre is a ‘space-saver’, avoid driving at high speed (max 80 km/h) and replace it as soon as possible. Space-savers are suitable for only one or two journeys, not for the long term. - Take Your Flat Tyre to a Mechanic or Car Repair Shop
Don’t forget to take your flat tyre to a professional to get it repaired or replaced immediately.
Armed with this information, you now know the steps to take to get you back on the road. Take a screenshot or bookmark this list and you won’t be scratching your head at the side of the road.
Other Useful links :
- What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down
- What to do if you Need Breakdown Assistance
- Top Tips For Tyre Safety
- What To Do If You Have an Accident
- Essential Items to Keep in Your Car
- Monthly Checks On Your Car
Finally, what about Car Insurance?
As well protecting yourself in the event of a flat tyre by carrying a spare, it's important that your Car insurance will be there for you when you need it. At RedClick, we offer custom-built cover, fast claims and offer online discounts* when you get a car insurance quote online. Get a car quote
*Online discount applies to new private car insurance policies only. Maximum discount €300. Subject to minimum premium and applied before optional covers. Acceptance criteria, terms and conditions apply.