What is a slow tyre puncture? Can you drive with air leaking out of your wheel and how do you fix it
A SLOW puncture can take hours, days or even weeks to fully deflate your tyre, making it hard to spot.
Many motorists are unsure whether or not they can drive with a gradual air leak, or fix it themselves – here’s everything you need to know.
WHAT CAUSES SLOW PUNCTURES
Usually these leaks are caused by small objects such as nails and screws.
They create a small hole which lets air out gradually, but don’t cause enough damage to instantly burst the tyre.
Air will continue to escape when you’re both driving and parked.
Sometimes the problem can be a result of faulty valves on the tyres.
There is a small rubber nozzle where air can be pumped into if the tyre needs topped up or deflated.
If this is damaged, motorists will soon discover they have a flat tyre.
Wear and tear on the wheels is another culprit, if the rubber is cracked or worn down it can lead to a deflated tyre over time.
SIGNS OF A SLOW PUNCTURE
Sometimes it’s hard to tell air has been leaking from the tyre until it’s too late.
Slow punctures can take hours, days or sometimes weeks to notice depending on the size of the hole.
That’s why it’s important to look out for these signs, according to the RAC.
The best piece of advice the car experts share is regular tyre pressure checks.
This can be done at home or at your nearest petrol station.
Another symptom to watch out for is uneven tyres, this could indicate a puncture.
Motorists should prioritise changing any deflated tyres as driving on them can lead to more damage.
It also puts your safety, and fellow drivers at risk on the road.
CAN YOU DRIVE WITH A SLOW PUNCTURE
As mentioned above, it is not a wise idea to get behind the wheel with damaged tyres.
Air could started leaking at a faster rate than usual which could leave you changing a flat at the side of the road.
It also affects your car’s braking efficiency, and your ability to control the vehicle when a tyre is damaged.
The experts at RAC suggest motorists can drive their car to the nearest garage or petrol station to have the tyre changed, but no further.
CAN SLOW PUNCTURES BE FIXED?
New tyres are always the best and safest option when damaged by a slow puncture.
Although sometimes they can be repaired.
But, unfortunately it won’t be a DIY job for your average motorist – it will require a mechanic or expert tyre technician.
The fix will be temporary and only possible if there’s no serious damage.
Mechanics will repair the puncture if it is less than 6mm in diameter, but anything larger than that will be sent to the tyre graveyard.
And, if the hole is on the sidewall, there’s no hope in fixing it.
Older and worn tyres should be replaced straight away.