Punctures can be a major source of frustration in many cases, but this shouldn’t have to leave you without an option. Luckily, identifying a puncture is relatively straightforward, and we have outlined some of the most crucial things you need to know to help you identify a puncture in your tyres.
Common Signs Your Tyre Has a Puncture
Several common signs you should look out for could indicate your tyre has a puncture. These will usually depend on the type of puncture; however, some of the most common signs can include:- Difficult steering: Since punctures cause uneven air fill in the tyres, it’s common to notice that punctured tyres are surprisingly difficult to steer. The car may slightly pull to one side or the other while driving, leaving you overcompensating. This could also cause shuddering.- Tapping or ticking sounds: If you notice tapping or ticking sounds while driving, it could be that your tyre has a puncture due to an embedded nail or screw. As such, it may be worth checking your tyres for any such issues once you are able to pull over safely.- Rapid deflation: If your tyres seem to be getting flat more often than you’d expect, you may have a slow puncture. These only release air very slowly, making them pretty hard to notice at first. One simple tip that could help is to keep a note of when you pump up the tyres; this can help you determine whether they’re deflating faster than you would normally expect.
These are just a few of the most common signs that your car might have a puncture. Make sure to keep these in mind to ensure you’re not caught out with surprise punctures. And, if you do notice that you’ve got a puncture, be sure to repair or replace the tyre as soon as possible so you’re not putting yourself – or others – at risk.
Don’t Chance it When Buying a Used Car
If you’re buying a used car, it’s not impossible for these to come with more than you bargained for. Punctures are just one such example of an unwanted and unwelcome bonus! As such, before buying any used car, always do your research.
If you are buying second-hand, start by asking the seller about the tyres. Always check them closely to ensure they’re well-inflated and not deflating, especially after a drive.
If you are able to take the car for a test drive, the odds of noticing a slow puncture may be higher. With that being said, if you’re still unsure, running a vehicle check can help you understand the history of the car, including MOT advisories and any past damage that may have caused damage to the tyre.
Final Thoughts
If you have been looking to purchase a new-to-you used car, ensuring the tyres are in good condition is crucial. Indeed, replacing damaged tyres will often cost a significant sum, and this can turn a great-value vehicle suddenly seem less appealing. Nevertheless, with careful inspection of the car and its tyres – and checking carefully for any past accidents with a car history check – you can avoid buying a car with damaged tyres.