A situation where a nail has punctured a tyre is not just a problem but an urgent issue that necessitates very swift action. The time extent that a tyre can still hold air depends on several factors, such as the place where the nail punctured the tyre, the size of the nail, how fast the air is losing and what type of tyre it is. By understanding these factors, drivers can easily determine the safest course of action and prevent incurring unnecessary and extra costs. For those who need cheap solutions, getting the help of the right Cheap Tyres Harrow professionals would be the best way to get fast and professional support without having to pay so much.

Factors That Determine Driving Distance

Location of the Puncture

The location of the nail has a huge impact on the safety and repairability issues. Ordinary punctures that are found on the tread area or even on the shoulder are usually safe and less dangerous. However, punctures on the sidewall are deemed extremely critical in terms of safety.

Any damage to the sidewall is out of the question to be safely repaired. The sidewall flexes constantly every time the car is on the move, thus making the repair unstable. Driving with a sidewall puncture is one way of bringing about sudden tyre failure.

Size and Angle Matter

Very small nails (about 6 mm or less) that are perfectly perpendicular to the tread are the usual culprits of slow leaks. These types of punctures allow just a bit of driving time before the professional repair person has to step in.

In the case of a big nail, an angled puncture, or a significant hole, air will release rapidly through the damaged area. In these extreme situations, immediate attention is necessary as a tyre can fail very quickly, especially when travelling at a higher velocity. 

Tyre Types

A variety of tyre types react differently when punctured. Run-flat tyres have reinforced sidewalls that allow the vehicle to continue driving when it is completely deflated. Most run-flat tyres allow driving approximately 80 kilometres, up to a maximum speed of 80 km/h after the tyre has been punctured.

This is not something that normal tyres can do. Some tyres have sealant inside the tyre, which will plug smaller holes. However, you must check with your particular tyre to see how far the tyre will go after a puncture. 

Age and Condition of Tyre

Older and worn tyres do not tolerate punctures as well as a newer tyre. Old and worn tyres are at a larger risk of failure when punctured, as the rubber has degraded, and in many cases, the internal structure is gone as well. 

Prior Damage adds to the issue; a tyre with previous repairs or issues with the profile may fail even faster due to an existing puncture. 

Immediate Safety Checks

When the nail is discovered or visible, a driver should quickly glance at the tyre and use their hands to check. A driver can use their hands to check whether the nail is in the tread vs a sidewall. 

Signs of serious damage include bubbling, tearing, or significant holes. If you hear hissing, this indicates a rapid loss of air. If the vehicle drifts to one side, there is likely considerable air loss. 

Using a tyre pressure gauge or looking at the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) reading will get you some tangible readings. Comparing the PSI to the door placard will show pressure loss.  

Repair Versus Replacement 

Repairable Punctures 

Single punctures, preferably in the tread area only, up to 6 mm in diameter, are typically repairable. Professional repair shops use a plug-and-patch method from the inside. 

Just an external plug only provides a temporary fix. External plugs may fail quickly and unexpectedly, leading to a dangerous situation.

Non-Repairable Damage 

Sidewall or shoulder damage will always be replaced. Punctures greater than 6mm and pockets with multiple punctures cannot be repaired. When damage is found, it compromises the structural integrity of the tyre. 

If an inspector sees internal cord or body damage, the tyre will need to be replaced. 

Recommended Action Steps 

First, stop at a safe place and do a visual inspection. Check the current pressure reading and record it. If rapid loss or damage to the sidewall has occurred, switch it over to the spare, or call a roadside assistance service.

If there are slow leaks in the tread area of your car's tyre, simply drive slowly and directly to the tyre shop. However, you should limit the travel distance and monitor the pressure the entire time. Once at the tyre shop, you should have the technician remove the tyre, then request that they thoroughly inspect the body of the tyre on the inside, and plug-and-patch the tyre if the puncture is repairable. This is the best option for your safety. If the tyre cannot be repaired, it may require new tyre replacement as the safer option.

Conclusion

When dealing with tyre puncture and leaks, safety should supersede convenience. If you are a resident and prefer to have someone do this work for you, professional specialists at Tyres Northolt can do an initial assessment and provide quality repairs that can help restore or improve safety and performance.