Newer vehicles are increasingly equipped with puncture repair kits instead of traditional spare tyres. These kits typically contain sealant to patch the hole and a small compressor to reinflate the tyre. If your vehicle has such a kit, it’s important to familiarise yourself with its usage by consulting the vehicle’s manual. Knowing how to use the repair kit in advance can save you time and stress should you encounter a flat tyre on the road.
However, many vehicles still come with a spare tyre. If this is the case for your vehicle, it’s a good idea to practice changing the tyre in a non-emergency situation. Being able to change a tyre efficiently in good conditions will help you perform the task with ease when faced with a real emergency, especially in bad weather or less-than-ideal locations.
Your vehicle should have all the necessary tools for either repairing a puncture or changing a tyre. These include the jack, a wheel-nut wrench, and tyre-changing tools. If your car lacks these essentials, you should consider purchasing a spare tyre, jack, and tools, or a comprehensive repair kit complete with a compressor.
What to Do When a Flat Tyre Occurs
If a flat tyre occurs while you’re driving, your priority should be to find a safe place to pull over. Ideally, pull off to a location where the ground is even and away from traffic. If you cannot do so safely, it’s best to call for roadside assistance. Changing a tyre or repairing a puncture in an unsafe location, such as the side of a busy highway, can be dangerous.
Once you have safely stopped:
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re experiencing an issue.
- Engage the emergency brake to prevent the car from moving.
- Turn off the vehicle and make sure it’s in park.
Changing a Spare Tyre
If your vehicle has a spare tyre, follow these steps for a safe tyre change:
- Refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on where to place the jack and how to safely lift the vehicle. Each vehicle has specific instructions regarding the use of the jack.
- Before raising the car, check the spare tyre for proper inflation and ensure that the tread is in good condition.
- Gather the tools you’ll need, including the wheel-nut wrench, wheel chock, and if possible, gloves and reflective clothing. Having something to kneel on, such as a mat or towel, can make the process more comfortable.
- Use the wheel chock to secure the tyre diagonally opposite the flat to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Position the jack under the car as directed in the manual. Lift the vehicle just enough until the jack touches the springs, then stop.
- Loosen the wheel nuts slightly before lifting the car higher. Once the tyre is fully off the ground, you can continue to remove the nuts by hand. Always turn them counterclockwise to remove.
- Carefully remove the flat tyre by pulling it away from the wheelbase. Place the spare tyre onto the wheel, ensuring that it’s aligned correctly.
- Hand-tighten the wheel nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure. Tighten them securely but not too tight just yet.
- Lower the jack until the spare tyre touches the ground. Once the car is stable, fully tighten the wheel nuts with the wrench.
- Place the flat tyre and all tools back into the vehicle’s boot or storage area.
Using a Puncture Repair Kit
If your vehicle has a puncture repair kit rather than a spare tyre, the process differs slightly. Follow these steps:
- Read the vehicle’s manual for instructions on using the sealant and compressor.
- Locate the puncture and apply the sealant to the affected area.
- Once sealed, use the compressor to reinflate the tyre to the recommended pressure, which is usually indicated on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the manual.
- Drive cautiously to the nearest tyre shop for a more permanent repair or replacement.
Important Safety Tips
Changing a tyre can be a straightforward process, but it’s important to always keep safety in mind. Consider the following tips:
- Always pull over in a safe location, away from traffic.
- Ensure the ground is flat and stable before using the jack.
- Wear reflective clothing, if possible, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions.
- If you’re unsure about changing a tyre yourself, don’t hesitate to call for professional roadside assistance.
What to Do After Changing the Tyre
Once the spare tyre is fitted, remember that it may be a temporary solution. Many spare tyres, particularly “donut” types, are designed for short distances and limited speeds. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the maximum number of kilometres and speeds allowed when driving on a spare tyre.
As soon as possible, drive to a nearby tyre shop to have the flat tyre replaced or repaired. You’ll also want to replace the spare if it’s a temporary tyre to ensure you’re prepared in case another flat occurs in the future.
Conclusion
Knowing how to change a tyre or use a puncture repair kit is an essential skill for any driver. While it’s always best to practise changing a tyre in non-emergency situations, having the right tools on hand and knowing what to do can make all the difference when you’re faced with a flat. Whether you’re using a spare tyre or a repair kit, always follow your vehicle’s manual and prioritise safety. And if in doubt, professional roadside assistance is always just a phone call away.
