How To Tell If You Have A Slow Puncture: Signs + Symptoms
Written on .A slow puncture that's undetected can severely damage your car and your ability to drive safely. Here's how to tell if you have a slow puncture on the road.
A standard tyre puncture is easily detectable. However, a slow puncture can remain undetected, since it doesn't result in an instant flat tyre.
Instead, air gradually escapes and the tyre is subjected to more weight and uneven wear. Bumps in the road, such as potholes, will have a greater impact and turns can place unnecessary force on your wheel wells.
Because of this, slow punctures are extremely dangerous, both for the lifespan of your tyre (and its ability to be repaired) and your ability to drive safely. Due to the slow loss of air, any sudden drop in pressure can make your tyre abruptly blow out.
Here's how to tell if you have a slow puncture:
How To Spot A Slow Puncture
While you're driving, these symptoms will alert you that a slow puncture has happened and is starting to impact your car's performance:
Pulling
If you're driving on a flat road and relax your grip on the steering wheel, you may notice the vehicle pulling to the left or right. This is a sign that the pressure is low in at least one of your tyres. If your tyre pressure remains low, you're likely suffering from a slow puncture.
Vibration
Likewise, pay attention to vibrations from your steering wheel. When your tyre loses air, it often causes the overall wheel to become unbalanced. Due to this, you'll feel a vibration, especially when travelling at high speeds.
Responsiveness
If you notice changes in your vehicle's handling, check your tyre pressure. You may feel like your suspension is stiffer than usual, or that turns are more difficult to complete smoothly. Tyres that are gradually becoming flat will be less responsive.
Causes Of A Slow Puncture
If you've driven over any of the factors below, you may have picked up a slow puncture. Be sure to check your car afterwards!
- A sharp object
- High kerb, especially when turning quickly
- A deep pothole
- Speed bumps at high speeds
At times, these scenarios cannot be avoided. Visually inspecting your tyres whenever you get into or climb out of your car will help you notice minor and major damage as it happens. This will allow you to address the problem before it turns into a costly repair or replacement job.
Tyres That Resist Slow Punctures
Manufacturers are working to engineer tyres that limit the risk of punctures. For example, self-supporting tyres and run flats are designed to reduce the impact of punctures and prevent blowouts from slow leaks, so an undetected hole in your tyre doesn't result in hazardous driving.
If you have a slow puncture, or you're interested in tyres that resist punctures altogether, then pop into your local Autofusion. Our experts can discuss tyre safety with you, help you find the right set for your car, and repair whatever damage is possible to rectify.