What is a Tyre Puncture?

tyre puncture occurs when a sharp object, like a nail or glass, pierces the tyre’s tread area, causing it to deflate. This loss of air pressure leads to a flat tyre, compromising the structural integrity of the tyre.

Top Causes of Tyre Puncture

From debris scattered on the streets to potholes lurking in the shadows, sharp objects find their way to puncture tyres when you least expect it.

Signs You Are Driving with a Flat Tyre

Picture this: you’re cruising down the road, and suddenly, something feels off. If you notice your car pulling to one side, hear unusual noises, or feel vibrations through the steering wheel, it’s time to check if you’re dealing with a deflated tyre.

How to Know if the Tyre is Punctured

Inspecting your tyres regularly is key to catching a puncture early. Look for any visible signs of damage like nails or cuts on the tyre’s surface. If you suspect a puncture, a quick pressure check using a tyre pressure gauge can confirm your suspicions.

When Not to Repair a Tyre Puncture

If the puncture is larger than 6mm or located on the sidewall, it’s a no-go for repair. Additionally, if the tyre has been driven on while flat, it may have incurred internal damage, compromising its integrity and needing replacement.

How to Repair Tyre Puncture

First things first, gather your tyre puncture repair kit, which typically includes a reaming tool, rubber plugs, and a plug insertion tool. Next, safely remove the tyre from the vehicle and locate the puncture. Use the reaming tool to clean and widen the puncture hole, then insert a rubber plug using the insertion tool. Trim any excess plug, reinflate the tyre to the recommended pressure.

How to Prevent Tyre Puncture

To reduce the risk of tyre punctures, regularly inspect your tyres for signs of wear and tear. Maintaining proper tyre pressure and avoiding road hazards whenever possible also go a long way in keeping your tyres puncture-free.

Why Good Tyres Matter for Safe School Runs

The school season is here, and for many Kiwi families, that means daily trips through busy school zones, early morning starts, and plenty of driving in unpredictable weather. While you’re getting the kids’ lunches and uniforms ready, don’t forget one crucial part of the school run—your car’s tyres!

Your tyres are the only thing keeping your vehicle connected to the road, so ensuring they’re in great condition is vital for safe and stress-free school commutes. In this blog, we’ll explain why good tyres matter, how to check their condition, and tips for choosing the best tyres for your family vehicle.

The Importance of Tyre Checks for School Runs

The daily school drop-off can be more demanding than it seems. From navigating through school zones filled with children and parked cars to braking suddenly in wet conditions, your tyres need to perform their best. Here’s why tyre safety checks are so important:

Quick Stops in School Zones:

Tyres with sufficient tread depth and even tread wear provides the grip you need to stop quickly and safely, especially when a child unexpectedly crosses the road. Uneven tyre wear can compromise this, making regular checks essential.

Handling in Changing Weather:

New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable. Properly maintained tyres, along with correct air pressure and wheel alignment, reduce the risk of aquaplaning on wet mornings or slipping on damp roads.

Avoiding Delays:

A flat tyre on a busy school morning can throw your schedule into chaos. Regular tyre checks, including monitoring the circumference of the tyre for uniformity, help you avoid these last-minute mishaps.

How to Keep Your Tyres School-Run Ready

Check Your Tyre Tread

Tyre tread is essential for good grip, especially in wet conditions. A quick way to check your tread depth is by using a 20-cent coin. While New Zealand law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm, keeping an eye on overall tread wear can help you replace tyres before they become unsafe. Worn tyres not only reduce stopping power but may also affect your vehicle’s handling in emergency situations.

Check Your Tyre Pressure

Driving on under-inflated tyres can make your vehicle harder to control and increase fuel consumption. On the other hand, over-inflated tyres reduce grip, making braking less effective.

Use a tyre pressure gauge to ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct level, which is usually listed in your vehicle’s manual or inside the door frame. Regular air pressure checks ensure smoother rides and better fuel efficiency—a win-win for busy families.

Look for Signs of Tyre Damage

Before you head out on the school run, take a few minutes to inspect your tyres. Look for:

Cuts or cracks on the sidewalls.
Objects like nails or glass lodged in the tread.
Bulges or bubbles on the tyre surface.

If you spot any of these issues, have your tyres checked by a professional. Damaged tyres may need to be replaced to avoid unexpected failures during your commute.

Choosing the Best Tyres for Your Vehicle

Not all tyres are created equal, so choosing the right ones for your vehicle and driving conditions is key:

City Drivers:

If you’re mostly driving in urban areas with frequent stops and starts, look for tyres designed for comfort and smooth handling.

Wet Weather Commutes:

For areas with frequent rain, choose tyres with excellent wet grip and braking performance to handle slippery roads.

Rural School Runs:

If your school route involves gravel roads or uneven terrain, all-terrain tyres offer the durability and stability you need.

Additionally, keep an eye on your tyres’ circumference. Tyres of varying circumferences on the same axle can affect stability and handling.

Do not Forget About Your Spare Tyre

School mornings are already hectic—do not let a flat tyre ruin your day. Ensure your spare tyre is in good condition, properly inflated, and ready to go. Check it regularly along with your other tyres, and make sure you have the tools to change it if needed.

Keep Your Family Safe and Stress-Free

Preparing your tyres for the school run is not just about safety; it’s about peace of mind. Knowing your vehicle is in top condition means one less thing to worry about during busy mornings.

At Tyre Shop Online, we make it simple to find the right tyres for your vehicle. Shop online, choose a local fitter, and you’re good to go.

Start the school term on the right foot—because keeping your family safe is always in season!

Happy Motoring!