EdupradaA tire puncture affects many motorists during the life of their car. It can occur after an impact, due to poor tire pressure or due to a foreign body. It can be a quick puncture, easy to notice, or on the contrary a slow puncture that is sometimes difficult to spot.
What are the different types of puncture?
A puncture is an affliction that can affect any tire : that of a car of course, but also of a bicycle for example. A puncture is defined by deterioration of the tire , generally punctured, which then deflates.
But there are actually different types and causes of punctures, including:
- Under -inflating the tire: a tire whose pressure is not respected increases the risk of tire puncture. In fact, the weight of the vehicle and the centrifugal force will cause the tire plies to rupture. The latter will then sag and lose strength, hence the risk of hernia or bursting.
- Foreign body : often the puncture is caused by a foreign body (sharp stone, screw, shard of glass, etc.) which pierces the tire, generally at the level of the tread .
- Shock : a puncture can occur suddenly after a somewhat sudden impact against a sidewalk, a pothole, etc.
It is also necessary to distinguish rapid puncture , such as that due to an impact, from what we call slow puncture . This is characterized by slow deflation, sometimes difficult to notice. In fact, it is normal for a tire to lose pressure as it is driven (at a rate of approximately 0.1 Bar per month).
But a greater loss of pressure should alert you. We therefore advise you to check your tire pressure once a month.
How to spot a puncture?
When a puncture occurs suddenly, it is generally difficult not to notice it. Whether it’s an impact on a curb or a tire explosion on the highway , you won’t be able to miss it. However, it is sometimes more complicated to find a slow puncture.
Every month, your tires lose around 0.1 Bar of pressure. If you notice a significant and continuous loss of pressure, it may be a puncture. If your car is equipped with one, the tire pressure warning light may come on, alerting you to a problem.
Start by restoring the pressure and check that the decrease continues. Once this is confirmed, examine the tire (sidewall and tread) to look for a foreign body that could have punctured it: screw, nail, various debris.
If that doesn’t work, pour soapy water or leak detection fluid on your tire and look for bubbles that tell you air is escaping. When you have a flat tire, you may also experience other symptoms like a vehicle pulling to one side or loss of handling.
What are the elements to take into account during a puncture?
During a puncture , it is essential to take into account several elements for an effective repair. Here are the main things to consider:
- Extent of damage : Carefully assess the extent of damage to the tire. It is important to separate the tire from the rim and inspect both the inside and outside of the tire. Sometimes a tire may appear repairable from the outside, but have internal damage that renders it unusable;
- The tightness of the internal membrane : it is crucial to guarantee the tightness of the internal membrane of the tire to avoid air leaks. Using a plug or adhesive substance may not be enough. Moisture infiltration can cause metal parts inside the tire to rust. Be sure to clean the internal membrane thoroughly and remove any dirt present;
- Filling the air hole : make sure to fill the hole causing the air leak. You can use a special lotion designed for tire repair and apply it to the inner membrane. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper repair.
It’s also important to keep in mind that not all punctures are repairable. Depending on the size and location of the puncture, as well as the recommendations of tire manufacturers and experts, it may be necessary to replace the damaged tire.
What to do in case of a puncture?
A puncture immobilizes the car, especially if it is a quick puncture that immediately flattens the tire. To avoid calling a tow truck and give yourself time to get to a garage, it is possible to repair the tire , depending on the nature of the puncture, or to change the wheel .
Material :
- Spare wheel
- Jack
- Wrench
- Anti-puncture spray
- Anti-puncture kit
Solution 1: Change the tire
In the event of a puncture, the most obvious solution is naturally to change the punctured tire. Sometimes you have no other choice: a puncture cannot always be repaired. To replace your tire with a spare wheel or tire pad , start by unscrewing the wheel nuts .
Then raise the car using the jack provided with your spare wheel and finish removing the nuts. Then remove the wheel to replace it. Be careful, however, if it is a flat tire: do not exceed 80 km/h and replace it with a real tire quickly.
Solution 2: The puncture spray
If it is a tubeless tire and the puncture is small and located on the tread, you can repair it with a puncture spray . If the tear is too big or located on the side, you will have no other choice but to change the wheel .
To repair the puncture, remove the tire valve and place the puncture spray on the tip. Empty it completely into the tire and drive a few kilometers so that the product spreads well throughout the inside of the tire . Please note: the puncture spray is only a temporary solution.
Solution 3: The anti-puncture kit
Finally, there are puncture repair kits , which can consist of bits , a patch or even a compressor and a sealant . Like the puncture spray, these kits are temporary solutions which will allow you to repair your tire while you reach a garage to change it.
How much does it cost to repair a puncture?
Some punctures can be repaired: it is then not necessary to change the tire immediately . Depending on whether or not the wheel will have to be removed to carry out the repair , count on a price of around €20 to €30 . This price includes tire balancing .
If the puncture cannot be repaired, the tire will need to be changed. But be careful: the difference in wear between two tires on the same axle cannot exceed 5mm . In other words, it may be necessary to replace both tires .
The price of a tire varies depending on the brand , its dimensions and its category ( summer / winter ). Allow €30 to €60 for a tire. Add to this the price of assembly and balancing (around €15 per tire) and possibly that of the rims .
You now know the different punctures that can occur on a car tire. You also know how to spot a slow puncture and the options for reacting in the event of a puncture. We remind you that all these repairs are temporary and that it is necessary to consult a mechanic after a puncture.