Can a punctured tyre be repaired?
Monday 29th April 2024
You may have already encountered the dreaded tyre puncture. Not only can it be a real pain, but it can be potentially dangerous for you and other road users. If you have a punctured or flat tyre, you may wonder if it’s repairable or needs replacing. Our guide aims to answer any questions you may have about punctures.
What is a slow puncture?
Compared to a rapid puncture, where you can immediately notice your tyre is flat, a slow puncture means that the pressure is lost gradually and won’t be noticeable straight away. It can take days or weeks for the tyre to deflate. This means you may initially drive your car without noticing the reduced tyre pressure or notice a difference in its appearance.
What causes a slow puncture?
A slow puncture can result from:
- Old and worn-out tyres.
- Issues with the valve stem or a faulty tyre valve.
- Hitting a sharp object, such as a nail or screw that pierces the tyre.
- Punctures in the tyre tread area.
How can I tell if I have a slow puncture?
There are noticeable signs to look out for when diagnosing a slow puncture. Over time, you may notice that your car feels and drives differently, which may include:
- Your car pulls to the left or right.
- Constant vibration coming from your steering wheel.
- Consistently having to top up your tyre pressure.
- The suspension feels stiff.
Can my slow puncture be repaired?
Slow punctures are fairly common and can usually be repaired by a professional. However, this depends on three factors:
Location
All slow puncture repairs must follow the British Standard (BSAU159) policy. This means a punctured tyre can only be repaired within the central three-quarters of the tyre, known as the minor repair area. If the puncture is outside the area, it is considered too close to the sidewall and cannot be repaired.
Size
The British Standard (BSAU159) policy allows safe repairs to occur if the diameter of the damaged area is under 6mm. A slow puncture caused by a nail or screw makes it easier for the punctured tyre to be repaired compared to a larger object, such as metal debris. Cuts or splits to the tyre cannot be repaired because they’re too big to repair effectively.
Condition
The tyre’s general condition also determines if the punctured tyre can be repaired. If the tyre tread on your tyres is less than the legal limit of 1.6mm, it will not be possible to repair your slow puncture and you could be fined up to £2,500 per tyre or get three points on your licence unless the illegal tyres are replaced. However, if the slow puncture is caused by damage to the sidewall, a dent to the wheel rim or a rusty corroded wheel rim, it may not be possible to repair the puncture. Not only may you need a new tyre, but you may be advised to replace the whole wheel.
Can run-flat tyres be repaired?
No, tyre manufacturers advise against repairing run-flats. The design of run-flat tyres enables them to be driven carefully for a short distance, following a puncture. This gives the driver a chance to reach a garage safely without assistance from a roadside recovery service. When a run-flat tyre is punctured, it cannot be repaired. Due to the reinforced side walls used in the design of run-flats, it is difficult to assess if there is any secondary damage to the tyre, rendering it unrepairable.
What if I cannot repair a punctured tyre?
If the slow tyre puncture is so severe that it cannot be repaired, you will need a new tyre. To find out what make and design is suitable as a replacement tyre, use our registration checker. Alternatively, you can browse the range of tyres we offer online. We recommend replacing the tyres on your cars in pairs to ensure the handling remains smooth and consistent.
Don’t let a punctured tyre get in the way of your journey. Do you already have a flat tyre and need to get it replaced? Our article answers how far you can drive on a flat tyre. If you need your flat or punctured tyres repaired, visit your local Formula One Autocentres branch for a tyre repair service.
