Spotting the signs of a slow puncture

Tyres are crucial for vehicle and driver safety. Slow punctures often go undetected for long periods of time which can endanger your safety. Continue reading to find out the best way to deal with slow punctures.

What is a slow puncture?

A standard puncture is easily detectable. However, a slow puncture can easily remain undetected for a long time. Tyre damage results in a slow loss of air and finally a drop in pressure. This means that the tyre can’t perform properly and driver safety and comfort are compromised. Bumps on the road surfaces, such as potholes, will have a greater impact on your tyres if you’re suffering from a slow puncture.

How to spot a slow puncture

• Pulling- If you’re driving on a flat road and relax your grip on the steering wheel and notice the vehicle pulling to the left or the right, it’s a sign that the pressure is low in at least one of your tyres. If your tyre pressure remains low, it is likely that you are suffering from a slow puncture.
  
• Vibration- Another sign of a slow puncture is vibrations from your steering wheel. When your tyre loses air, it can cause your wheel to become unbalanced. Due to this, you’ll feel a vibration especially when travelling at a high speed.
• Responsiveness- If you notice any changes in your vehicle handling, check your tyre pressures. If you feel like your suspension is harder than usual, you should also check your tyre pressures to ensure that they are normal. If you’re used to driving your vehicle regularly, you are likely to notice even slight changes in vehicle handling.
  

What are the causes of a slow puncture?

• A sharp object piercing the tyre
• Severe impact such as going over a pothole
  
• A faulty tyre valve
  

Sometimes, these scenarios cannot be avoided but there are a few things you can do to spot a slow puncture earlier. Undertaking regular visual inspections of your tyres can help with spotting these issues earlier. The earlier these issues are spotted, the easier and more economical they are to fix.

Tyre technology

Tyre manufacturers are working to engineer tyres that reduce the risk of punctures. Manufacturers such as Continental have produced tyres that provide extended mobility. An example of this is Self Supporting Run Flat tyres. These tyres allow you to safely continue with yout journey for up to 50 additional miles.

Concerned about your tyres?

If you are experiencing any handling issues with your car, don’t take any chances and pop into your local Kwik Fit. Find your nearest Kwik Fit centre here.