Getting a flat tyre can be stressful and potentially dangerous if handled incorrectly. This guide walks you through exactly what to do when you get a flat tyre, step by step.
The moment you suspect a flat tyre — whether through vibration, a pulling sensation, or a loud bang — reduce your speed gradually by gently easing off the accelerator. Do not brake sharply, as this can cause you to lose control, especially at higher speeds. Grip the steering wheel firmly and steer smoothly towards the safest available place to stop.
Ideal stopping points include car parks, laybys, wide verges, or service stations. Avoid stopping on motorway hard shoulders unless it is absolutely unavoidable. Once stopped safely, switch on your hazard warning lights immediately.
Once stopped, put the car in park or engage your handbrake, and switch on your hazard lights if not already done. If you have a reflective warning triangle, place it at least 45 metres behind your vehicle on the same side of the road — but only do this if it is safe to exit the car. On a motorway, do not place a warning triangle and stay well away from moving traffic.
Check whether your vehicle has a spare tyre, a space-saver wheel, or run-flat tyres. Many modern vehicles no longer carry a traditional spare. If you have a spare and feel confident changing it in a safe location, proceed carefully. Otherwise, call for professional roadside tyre help.
If you are not confident changing the tyre yourself, or if you do not have a suitable spare, call Tech Mobile Tyres. Our mobile tyre engineers will come to your location anywhere in Liverpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Sunderland or Dundee — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
A professional mobile tyre fitting service is the safest and most convenient option in most flat tyre situations. We will assess whether a repair is possible or a replacement is needed, carry out the work on-site, and have you safely back on the road as quickly as possible.
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