How to Change a Flat Tyre Safely
A puncture is always an inconvenience, but on a busy UK road, it can be a major safety risk. Here is how to handle it.
Safety First: Where to Stop
If you feel the car pulling or hear a rhythmic "flapping" sound, you likely have a puncture. In the UK, the Highway Code is clear: only change a tyre if you can do so safely without obstructing traffic.
Never change a tyre on a motorway hard shoulder or on a "Smart Motorway" refuge. The risk of being hit by other traffic is too high. In these cases, stay in the car with your seatbelt on and call for professional recovery.
Step-by-Step Guide
Secure the Vehicle
Park on flat, firm ground. Turn on hazard lights, engage the handbrake, and put the car in first gear (or 'P' for automatic).
Loosen the Nuts
While the car is still on the ground, use the wheel brace to loosen the wheel nuts by half a turn. Do not remove them yet.
Jack it Up
Locate the jacking point (check your manual). Crank the jack until the flat tyre is slightly off the ground.
Swap the Wheels
Remove the nuts, pull the flat tyre off, and slide the spare on. Hand-tighten the nuts in a diagonal pattern.
Lower and Torque
Lower the car, remove the jack, and tighten the nuts fully with the brace. Visit a garage as soon as possible to have them checked with a torque wrench.
Puncture Repair vs Replacement Costs
If the puncture is in the central 75% of the tread and hasn't been driven on while flat, it can often be repaired.
Estimated Costs (2024/25)
- Garage Puncture Repair: £20 – £35
- Mobile Tyre Fitting (Call-out + Tyre): £100 – £180+
- New Budget Tyre (Fitted): £60 – £90
- New Premium Tyre (Fitted): £110 – £200+
Essential Checklist
- Check your spare: Many modern cars only come with a "gloop" repair kit. Check your boot today.
- Check pressure: A flat spare tyre is useless. Check it every time you do your MOT prep.
- Locking wheel nut: Ensure you know where the key is kept (usually in the glovebox or with the tools).
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can I drive on a "space saver" spare?
Most are limited to 50mph and should not be driven for more than 50 miles. They are designed only to get you to the nearest garage.
Can run-flat tyres be repaired?
Most manufacturers advise against it, as the internal structure is often damaged once the tyre has been driven on without air pressure.
Tyre Condition Matters for MOT
A tyre with less than 1.6mm of tread or a visible bulge is an automatic MOT failure.
Check MOT Status