Feb 9,2026
Active Admin
Flat tyres usually happen when you least expect them, whether you’re close to home or miles away on a longer journey. Being left with a puncture can feel frustrating and stressful, especially if you’re unsure what steps to take next. Whether it’s one tyre or more, the situation needs dealing with properly to get you back on the road safely. In this blog, we’ll explain what to do with a flat tyre, from the moment you notice the problem through to getting it repaired or replaced.
How To Tell If You Have A Flat Tyre
Flat tyres usually happen when you least expect them, whether you’re close to home or miles away on a longer journey. Being left with a puncture can feel frustrating and stressful, especially if you’re unsure what steps to take next. Whether it’s one tyre or more, the situation needs dealing with properly to get you back on the road safely. In this blog, we’ll explain what to do with a flat tyre, from the moment you notice the problem through to getting it repaired or replaced.
Sometimes a flat tyre is obvious straight away, but in other cases the signs can be more subtle, especially if the tyre is slowly losing air rather than going down suddenly. Knowing what to look and listen for can help you react quickly and avoid further damage to your vehicle.
One of the most common signs is the car starting to pull slightly to one side while driving. You may also notice the steering feels heavier or less responsive than usual. In some cases, there may be a flapping or thudding sound coming from one corner of the car, which can indicate that a tyre has lost pressure.
Many modern vehicles will also show a tyre pressure warning light on the dashboard if something isn’t right. If this appears, it’s important not to ignore it and to check your tyres as soon as it’s safe to do so.
If you’re parked, a flat tyre can often be spotted visually. The tyre may look lower than the others, appear deflated, or seem to be sitting unevenly against the ground. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to stop driving as soon as it’s safe and assess the situation.
What Causes A Flat Tyre?
Flat tyres can happen for a number of reasons, and often it’s something that occurs without much warning. Understanding the common causes can help you spot problems earlier and reduce the chances of it happening again in the future.
One of the most frequent causes is a puncture from sharp objects on the road, such as nails, screws, or broken glass. These can pierce the rubber and allow air to slowly or suddenly escape, leaving the tyre deflated.
Potholes and rough road surfaces are another major cause. Hitting a deep pothole at speed can damage the tyre’s structure or even cause it to burst, especially if the tyre pressure is already low. Kerbs can also cause damage if they’re hit at the wrong angle.
General wear and tear can play a part too. As tyres age and the tread becomes worn down, they become more vulnerable to punctures and splits. Driving regularly with incorrect tyre pressure can also increase the risk, as underinflated tyres put more strain on the rubber.
Valve issues are another possible cause. If the valve that holds the air in the tyre becomes loose or damaged, it can lead to a slow leak over time, which may eventually result in a flat tyre.
How To Deal With This Safely
When it comes to a flat tyre, there are many different ways that you can sort out the problem of a flat tyre. Here are some key steps:
Slow down and find a safe place to stop
As soon as you notice an issue, reduce your speed and pull over somewhere secure, such as a lay-by or quiet side road.
Turn on your hazard lights
This helps alert other drivers that you’re dealing with a problem and keeps you safer while stationary.
Check the tyre condition
Once it’s safe to exit the vehicle, take a look to see which tyre is flat and whether there is any obvious damage.
Use a spare tyre if you have one
If you feel confident and have the right equipment, you may be able to change the tyre and continue your journey carefully.
Call for assistance if needed
If you’re unsure, don’t have a spare, or are in an unsafe location, it’s always best to contact roadside support or a local tyre specialist for help.
Getting Your Tyre Repaired or Replaced
Once you’ve safely stopped and dealt with the immediate situation, the next step is to have the tyre properly checked. In some cases, a flat tyre can be repaired, but in others a full replacement may be the safest and most reliable option.
If the damage is small, such as a minor puncture in the main tread area, a repair may be possible. This can often be a quick and cost-effective solution that gets you back on the road without needing a brand new tyre. However, not all tyres can be safely repaired. If the puncture is in the sidewall, the tyre has been driven on while flat, or there is significant wear, replacement is usually recommended.
It’s also important to remember that driving even a short distance on a flat tyre can cause internal damage that isn’t always visible at first glance. This is why having a professional inspect it is the best way to make sure it’s safe to continue using.
If you’ve fitted a spare tyre to get moving again, it’s a good idea to visit a tyre specialist as soon as possible. Spare tyres are often designed for temporary use and aren’t intended for long journeys or higher speeds.
A trusted local tyre centre can quickly assess the condition of the tyre, confirm whether a repair is suitable, and fit a replacement if needed, helping you get back on the road safely and with confidence.
Contact Longbridge Tyres Today!
If you’re dealing with a flat tyre and need quick, reliable support, the team at Longbridge Tyres is here to help. Whether you need a puncture repair, a full tyre replacement, or simply expert advice, we’re ready to get you safely back on the road. View our range of tyres today.
Our experienced team can assess the damage, recommend the best solution, and carry out the work efficiently so you can continue your journey with confidence. No matter how small or serious the issue may seem, it’s always worth having a professional take a look.
Get in touch with Longbridge Tyres today or visit us in person for fast, friendly service and expert tyre care when you need it most.corper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
