How to Fix a Flat Tyre or Use a Tyre Repair Kit

A flat tyre can happen without warning. Whether you run over a nail, hit sharp debris, or the tyre simply gives out due to wear, it is one of the most common problems drivers face on the road. Knowing how to fix a flat or use a tyre repair kit can help you stay calm and get back on your way without waiting hours for help.

This guide covers two main solutions: changing the flat tyre with a spare and using a tyre repair kit when a spare is not available.

What Causes a Flat Tyre?

Understanding what causes a flat tyre can help prevent it in the future. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Punctures from nails, screws, or sharp stones

• Worn out tread that makes the tyre more prone to damage

• Impact damage from potholes or kerbs

• Over or under-inflation, which weakens the tyre

• Valve stem failure, allowing air to escape

Many flat tyres can be avoided by checking air pressure regularly, inspecting tread wear, and avoiding road hazards where possible.

What You Need to Fix a Flat

Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools. A basic tyre fix may require:

• Spare tyre (usually stored in the boot)

• Jack

• Wheel brace or tyre iron

• Vehicle owner's manual

• Tyre repair kit (if no spare tyre is available)

• Torch (if you are working in low light)

• Safety gloves

Some cars come with a tyre repair kit instead of a spare. This usually includes sealant and an air compressor.

Safety Comes First

Before touching the tyre, take safety steps:

• Pull over to a safe spot away from traffic

• Turn on hazard lights

• Apply the parking brake

• Place wheel wedges or bricks behind the wheels to stop the car from rolling

Never try to fix a tyre on a slope or soft ground. Choose a level, firm surface for safety.

How to Change a Flat Tyre

If you have a spare tyre, follow these steps:

1. Loosen the Wheel Nuts

Use the wheel brace to slightly loosen the nuts on the flat tyre. Do not take them off completely yet.

2. Raise the Car with the Jack

Place the jack under the correct lifting point (usually marked on the chassis). Raise the car until the flat tyre is just off the ground.

3. Remove the Flat Tyre

Finish loosening and removing the nuts. Take the tyre off and place it flat on the ground to stop it from rolling.

4. Fit the Spare Tyre

Place the spare tyre onto the wheel bolts. Put the nuts back on and tighten them by hand first.

5. Lower the Car and Tighten the Nuts

Lower the jack slowly and remove it. Use the wheel brace to fully tighten the nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.

6. Check the Tyre Pressure

If you have a pressure gauge, check the pressure of the spare. If it is too low, drive slowly to the nearest service station to inflate it.

How to Use a Tyre Repair Kit

If your car has no spare tyre, it likely comes with a tyre repair kit. This is suitable for minor punctures, like small nails or screws in the tread area.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Find the puncture: Inspect the tyre for the object that caused the flat. Do not remove it if you plan to use sealant.

2. Shake the sealant bottle: Follow the instructions provided with the kit.

3. Connect the sealant: Attach the sealant tube to the tyre’s valve stem.

4. Inject the sealant: Let it fill the tyre as directed. It will seal the hole from the inside.

5. Inflate the tyre: Use the included air compressor to inflate the tyre to the recommended pressure.

6. Drive for a short distance: Usually 5 to 10 kilometres. This spreads the sealant and helps it bond properly.

7. Recheck pressure: Make sure it holds air. If it continues to lose pressure, the damage may be too large for a repair kit.

Know When a Tyre Cannot Be Repaired

Tyre repair kits only work on small punctures in the tread. They do not fix sidewall damage, blowouts, or large holes. Also, sealant repairs are often temporary.

If your tyre is badly damaged or the repair fails, you may need a full replacement. At times, this can be costly or not worth it, especially if the car is already old or has other mechanical issues.

When that happens, some owners choose to part ways with the vehicle altogether. Services that help you Sell your Non Runner Car can be helpful when the car is no longer safe or worth repairing. These services take in cars that are no longer in running condition and can offer a way to remove the car without any added steps on your part. This is often a better choice than keeping a damaged or undriveable car parked at home.

Tips to Prevent Flat Tyres

Regular maintenance can reduce the risk of flat tyres. Try these habits:

• Check tyre pressure once a month

• Rotate tyres every 10,000 kilometres

• Replace tyres when tread depth is below legal limit

• Avoid driving over debris or potholes

• Replace valve caps and keep them clean

These small actions can keep your tyres in better condition and lower the chance of a flat.

Conclusion

Dealing with a flat tyre does not have to ruin your day. Whether you carry a spare or rely on a repair kit, knowing the right steps to follow helps you stay prepared. Safety should always come first, and if the tyre cannot be fixed, it is better to address the issue early before it turns into a bigger problem.

Learning how to change a tyre or use a repair kit is a useful skill for any driver. It gives you confidence on the road and helps avoid long delays or unexpected towing costs. And when a flat tyre is just one of many problems with your vehicle, it might be time to think about whether keeping the car is worth the trouble.