If you are lucky enough to own a newer car, it will most likely alert you to a drop in pressure in one of the tyres. If not, if one tyre looks “flatter” than the other, try to spot the tyre puncture by visually inspecting the tread and sidewall for damage or foreign objects. Did you know that small punctures in the tread area (not in the side wall) are repairable? To safely repair the tyre, bring it to the Perth Tyre experts AME Auto for an internal patch and inspection.
Let’s go into more detail and talk about the essential tools and techniques for a successful tyre repair.
How to Spot a Tyre Puncture in Perth
Driving around in Perth, you will pick up a nail (or four). To spot a tyre puncture, you will first need to visually inspect the tyre for any apparent signs of damage, like nails, screws, or other sharp objects embedded in the tread. Look closely at the tyre’s surface, paying attention to irregularities or protrusions. If you find a foreign object, do not attempt to remove it yet, as it may be plugging the hole and preventing air from escaping.
If there are no visible objects stuck in the tyre, check for any cuts, tears, or bulges on the sidewall. These can indicate internal damage that may lead to a puncture or blowout. Also, watch for unusual wear patterns or bald spots on the tread, which could signify an underlying issue.
Another way to detect a puncture is by monitoring your tyre pressure. If you notice that one tyre consistently loses air pressure faster than the others, a small puncture likely causes a slow leak. Use a tyre pressure gauge to regularly check the pressure in all four tyres and compare the readings to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
Signs of a Tyre Puncture
Sluggish Vehicle
A sign your vehicle may have a punctured car tyre is sluggish acceleration or difficulty maintaining speed. If you are driving on a flat surface and notice that your car is not responding as quickly when you press the gas pedal, it could be due to a tyre losing air pressure. This is because a deflated tyre has increased rolling resistance, so the engine must work harder to overcome the friction and propel the vehicle forward.
You might also find that your car needs help to reach or maintain higher speeds, even when applying consistent pressure to the accelerator. This sluggishness can be particularly noticeable when driving uphill or carrying a heavy load.
If you experience these symptoms and other signs like a booming sound or vibrations, you must pull over safely and inspect your tyres for punctures or damage. Continuing to drive on a compromised tyre can lead to further damage, a blowout, or even loss of control, putting you and other road users at risk. Promptly addressing the issue and seeking professional repairs is the best action.
Veering Off
Your vehicle’s tendency to veer off to one side of the road could signal a punctured tyre, especially if it is a front tyre. When a front tyre loses air pressure due to a puncture, it affects the vehicle’s steering and stability, causing it to pull in the direction of the deflated tyre. This can be particularly noticeable when driving on a straight, level road.
If you experience this sudden change in your vehicle’s handling, it is imperative to address the issue promptly. Pull the car over, continuing to drive with a punctured tyre can lead to further damage to the tyre and wheel and may even result in a complete blowout, putting your safety at risk.
To confirm a punctured tyre, safely pull over to a level area and inspect your tyres. Look for any visible signs of damage, such as a nail or screw embedded in the tread or a bulge or tear in the sidewall. If you spot a puncture, it is vital to have it repaired or the tyre replaced as soon as possible to guarantee your vehicle’s stability and safety.
Locating the Puncture
Visual Inspection
As discussed above, inspect your tyre’s surface thoroughly for any signs of damage, focusing on potential puncture culprits like nails, screws, or glass shards. It is essential to identify the cause of the puncture before attempting any repairs. Slowly rub your palm over the tyre, examining the entire tread area and sidewalls. Again – If you spot an object embedded in the tyre, do not remove it just yet, as it may be plugging the hole and preventing further air loss.
If there is no visible object but you suspect a leak, mix dish soap with water and apply the solution to the tyre’s surface. Watch for bubbles forming as you rotate the tyre, indicating the puncture’s location. Once you have found the damaged area, mark it with a tyre crayon or chalk to make it easily identifiable when ready to repair it.
Keep in mind that not all punctures are repairable. If the damage is on the sidewall or the puncture is too large, you must replace the tyre rather than attempt a repair.
Soapy Water Test
Mix a dish soap solution and water in a spray bottle or bowl. Spray or apply the soapy mixture onto the entire surface of the tyre, focusing on the tread and sidewalls.
As you apply the solution, watch closely for any bubbles forming on the tyre’s surface. The appearance of bubbles indicates air escaping from a puncture, helping you pinpoint the exact location of the leak.
Once you have identified the puncture site, mark it with a tyre crayon or chalk. If you cannot locate the leak using the soapy water method, it is possible that the puncture is too small to detect or that the tyre has a slow leak. In such cases, having a professional inspect the tyre is best.
When to Repair a Tyre Puncture
Knowing when to repair a tyre puncture is critical for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance. AME Auto will help. If you spot a nail, screw, or other sharp object embedded in your tyre, it is imperative to address the issue promptly. Driving with a punctured tyre can lead to further damage, compromising the tyre’s structural integrity and increasing the risk of a blowout.
Even if the puncture seems small and there is no immediate air loss, it is still essential to have it repaired. Over time, the object can work deeper into the tyre, causing a slow leak or sudden failure. Additionally, if the puncture is located on the tyre’s sidewall, it is not repairable, and you will need to replace the tyre.
AME Automotive will assess the damage’s location, size, and severity to determine if a repair is feasible.
Repairable Conditions
Location
Examine the puncture’s location to determine if the tyre can be repaired safely. Punctures in the tread area, the central 60-70% of the tyre’s width, are usually repairable. This is because the tread area is the thickest part of the tyre and can handle a repair without compromising the tyre’s structural integrity.
However, if the puncture is located on the shoulder or sidewall of the tyre, it is unsafe to repair. These areas are thinner and more flexible, and a repair in these locations can weaken the tyre’s structure, potentially leading to a blowout or other dangerous situations while driving.
Scrutinising the puncture’s location before attempting any repairs is essential. If you are still determining whether the damage is in a repairable area, it is best to consult a professional tyre technician. They can inspect the tyre and advise you on the safest action. Remember, your safety on the road should always be the top priority, so if there is any doubt about the repairability of the puncture, it is better to replace the tyre entirely.
Size
Another vital factor is the size of the puncture. Not all punctures are repairable, and assessing whether the damage falls within the limits for a safe repair is essential.
If you are dealing with a passenger tyre, you can fix punctures up to 6mm in diameter. However, if the puncture exceeds this size, it is time to consider replacing the tyre.
Keep in mind that the location of the puncture also plays a significant role in determining the feasibility of a repair. Even if the puncture is within the repairable size range, if it is located on the tyre’s shoulder or sidewall, attempting a repair could compromise the tyre’s structural integrity and put your safety at risk.
When you are still determining the severity of the damage or your ability to perform a proper repair, it is always best to seek the advice of a professional tyre technician. They can accurately assess the puncture’s size and location and recommend the most appropriate course of action to guarantee your vehicle’s safety and performance on the road.
Tyre Condition
Before you start the repair process, take a moment to inspect the overall condition of the tyre thoroughly. Look for signs of excessive wear, such as bald spots or uneven tread wear, which may indicate that the tyre needs to be replaced rather than repaired. Check for any visible sidewall damage, such as cuts, bulges, or separations in the rubber. If you notice any of these issues, it is best to replace the tyre, as repairing it could be unsafe.
You can proceed with the repair if the tyre is in good overall condition, with no signs of excessive wear or damage. Remember that punctures within the tread area that do not exceed 6mm in diameter are considered repairable. However, the tyre should be replaced if the puncture is located on the tyre’s shoulder or sidewall or is more significant than 6mm. Remember, your safety is paramount, so always be cautious when repairing or replacing a damaged tyre.
Safety Considerations
Professional Inspection
Even if you have successfully repaired the puncture yourself, getting your tyre professionally inspected to verify its roadworthiness and safety is the best thing you can do. A trained technician like AME Auto will thoroughly examine the tyre inside and out, evaluating the quality of your repair and checking for any additional damage or wear that may compromise the tyre’s integrity.
We will guarantee that the tyre is perfectly balanced and inflated and that there are no slow leaks or structural issues. If we spot any concerns, we advise you on the best course of action: further repairs, replacement, or adjusting your driving habits.
Money is tight in our West Australian economy, but don’t skip this essential step – AME Automotive provides peace of mind and could prevent a dangerous tyre failure. Remember, your tyres are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, so prioritising their maintenance is essential for your safety, passengers, and other motorists.
Investing a little time and money now can save you from costly and potentially life-threatening consequences later.
Best Tyre Repair in Perth
AME Automotive’s expert mechanics provide excellent tyre repair services in Perth, guaranteeing your vehicle’s safety and performance. With over three decades of experience, we are the go-to choice for all your Canning Vale car needs. Their family-owned business is built on a solid foundation of exceptional customer service, quality, and honesty.
When you bring your car to AME Auto, you can trust that we will tell you precisely what is wrong and fix it right the first time. We specialise in spotting and repairing tyre punctures, following strict legal and safety standards to ensure your vehicle’s integrity.
Our detailed tyre repair process involves carefully inspecting the puncture, removing the damaged tyre, and professionally patching or plugging the hole from the inside. We will then resurface the tyre, balance it, and remount it on your vehicle. AME only uses high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure a lasting, reliable repair.
In addition to our expert tyre repair services, AME Auto goes beyond cleaning and washing your car after every service. We pride ourselves on providing a complete, customer-focused experience that leaves you with a safe, well-maintained vehicle.
Please do not settle for less regarding your car’s safety and performance. Trust the experienced, honest, and skilled mechanics at AME Automotive for Perth’s best tyre repair services. With our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can confidently drive knowing your vehicle is in capable hands.
Check out our discounted internet full car service, “Pamper My Car,” which starts at $199.
Conclusion
You have now learned how to spot and repair a tyre puncture safely. You can confidently manage this common roadside issue by recognising the signs, locating the damage, and following the step-by-step repair guide.
Remember to consider the repairable conditions and prioritise safety throughout the process. With the right tools, techniques, and knowledge, you will be back on the road quickly.
Do not let a tyre puncture disrupt your journey – you have this!