Most drivers have experienced the frustration of dealing with a flat tyre, whether parked on the side of a road or in a parking lot. While modern tyres are more resistant to some causes of flats, they are not immune. Here are the most common reasons why tyres go flat and what you can do about them.
Improper Inflation
Improper tyre inflation is the most common cause of flat tyres. If your tyres are not inflated correctly when installed, they can become unseated from the rim, leading to air leakage. This issue is easily fixed by having the tyre re-seated and properly inflated by a tyre professional. It’s essential to regularly check your tyre pressure, as both under-inflation and over-inflation can cause damage over time. Under-inflation can lead to the tyre overheating, while over-inflation can cause uneven wear on the tread.
Proper inflation ensures your tyres maintain the correct level of contact with the road, reducing the risk of a blowout. It also improves fuel efficiency and ensures a smoother ride. You can easily avoid the issue of improper inflation by checking tyre pressure monthly and adjusting as needed based on your vehicle’s recommended pressure levels.
Foreign Objects
Nails, bolts, shards of metal, glass, and thick plastic can puncture tyres, leading to slow leaks or sudden flats. These sharp objects are common on roads, especially in areas with ongoing construction or where debris is not regularly cleared. If you suspect a tyre is going flat, it’s a good idea to inspect the tread and sidewall for any foreign objects lodged in the tyre. In many cases, small punctures can be patched, but larger damage may require a tyre replacement.
Running over foreign objects while driving at high speed increases the risk of significant tyre damage. Keeping an eye on the road and avoiding debris, when possible, can help minimise the risk of foreign object-related punctures.
Leaky Valve Stems
Another common culprit for flat tyres is a leaky valve stem. If you cannot see any obvious signs of puncture or damage, check the valve stem. Dirt or debris can get into the stem, causing air to leak slowly. Sometimes, valve stems may wear out and need to be replaced. A simple check by a tyre professional can confirm whether the valve stem is the issue. Replacing a faulty valve stem is a relatively inexpensive fix compared to dealing with other forms of tyre damage.
Sharp Gravel Roads
Driving regularly on roads covered with sharp gravel can wear down your tyres over time. The steel belts within the tyre may separate due to the constant impact with sharp surfaces, eventually causing a hole to form, particularly along the sidewall. This type of damage is more difficult to repair, and it’s essential to check your tyres for any bulges or signs of wear if you frequently drive on such roads. Gravel roads can be particularly harsh on tyres, so it’s worth considering tyres designed for rough terrain if this is part of your regular driving route.
Checking Tyre Pressure When Cold
It’s important to check tyre pressure before driving and during the cool of the morning. Tyre pressure fluctuates as the tyres warm up, and the recommended pressure level is based on “cold” air inside the tyre. Checking the pressure after driving may give you an inaccurate reading, so always check them before the tyres have had time to heat up.
Regularly checking tyre pressure in the morning ensures accurate readings and helps prevent under- or over-inflation issues. If you notice that your tyres are frequently losing pressure, it could be a sign of a slow leak, and you should have them inspected by a professional.
Tread Separation
Although not as common as it was in the past, tread separation can still be a factor. When the tread separates from the tyre, the exposed underlying rubber is more vulnerable to sharp objects, which can cause punctures. It’s a good idea to inspect your tyres regularly, such as during routine oil changes, to ensure the tread is in good condition. Tread separation is more likely to occur in older tyres, so it’s important to monitor tyre wear and replace them when they reach their recommended lifespan.
Neighbour Pranks
While it may seem unlikely, sometimes a flat tyre could be the result of a neighbourhood prank. Teenagers or mischievous neighbours might let the air out of your tyres as a joke. If you suspect foul play, try refilling the tyre to see if it holds air. If the tyre doesn’t appear to have a puncture and holds air after refilling, this could be the issue.
Conclusion
Flat tyres can happen for a variety of reasons, from improper inflation to road hazards and even pranks. To avoid getting stranded with a flat, it’s important to regularly inspect your tyres for any signs of wear or damage and to check the tyre pressure consistently. By addressing these common causes, you can prolong the life of your tyres and ensure a smoother, safer ride. Taking preventative measures such as choosing the right tyres for your driving conditions and keeping them properly inflated will help minimise the risk of flats.
