HOW TO AVOID YOUR NEXT PUNCTURE

You’re rushing to fetch the kids from school and before you know it, you get a puncture. It’s a stressful experience and while you wait for help to come or change out the flat with a spare, you may ask yourself if there’s any way to avoid it happening again. The answer can be yes, depending on the causes. Sometimes a puncture is unavoidable, but with proper tire and car care maintenance, you can reduce the chances of it happening when you least expect it. Here are some of the most common reasons for a puncture.

1. Weakened Tires

It’s important to consistently check your tires. If you fail to do so, worn out areas can greatly increase the chance of a puncture taking place. Look out for bulging, cracked and worn out edges. These all significantly decrease the lifespan of your tires and make them more susceptible to impact punctures.

2. Incorrect Inflation

Over and under-inflation are significant issues that can lead to a puncture or a blowout. Overinflation leads to unstable pressure and this is sometimes not physically visible. Air pressure should be checked as per the service manual you received with your vehicle. Checking it frequently can save you expensive puncture and tire replacement bills in the future.

3. Faulty Valves

The airway for inflation in your tires can get damaged and this can result in air leaking out. It may be more prone to an accidental puncture or even run completely flat. Dirt and dust build-up can congest this airway too, which is why these checks must be regularly done.

4. Intentional Damage

Whether it’s a prank or malicious, tires are often subject to vandalism and interference by others. There isn’t anything you can do to deter this type of action, but frequently checking on the condition of your tires can alert you to sharp objects or tears before it causes an accident as a result of a puncture. Passing by construction sites or road works are sometimes inevitable and any debris or building materials left lying around can cause a puncture.

Life happens, but if you’re driving and feel your tire puncture – you must remain calm. Alert your fellow road users by switching on your hazard lights and start gradually slowing down the car. Ensure that you’re out of traffic and not obstructing the flow in any way to avoid a collision. You may be overwhelmed and unsure what to do next, but to get back up and running you’ll need to replace or repair your punctured tire as soon as possible. As an affordable outlet offering cheap tyres in Auckland, Drury Tires offers free puncture repairs for half a year after purchase. Contact them today.