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What does your car carry for a puncture?
It depends on the model: cars may have a spare wheel, a space-saver, a repair kit with sealant and compressor, or run-flat tyres. Knowing this before you call us changes the type of job.
| Equipment | What it allows |
|---|---|
| Spare wheel | Wheel change and normal driving, if in good condition |
| Space-saver | Temporary use, maximum speed shown on the space-saver (typically 80 km/h) |
| Repair kit | Small holes in the tread only, followed by a check by a tyre fitter |
| Run-flat | Limited distance at reduced speed, according to the manufacturer's guidance |
| No equipment | See no spare wheel |
The equipment is usually under the boot floor. Full comparison in the guide repair kit or space-saver.
What does the tyre pressure warning light tell you?
The pressure warning light tells you that one or more tyres have lost pressure. TPMS has been mandatory on all new cars registered in the European Union since 1 November 2014, so it's fitted to most cars on the road. When it comes on, slow down, stop as soon as possible somewhere safe and check the tyres. Find out more in the guide on the tyre pressure warning light.
How do we deal with a car?
With a car, we come out straight away to wherever it is, without you having to move it, and get you back on the road in no time:
- we make the vehicle and the work area safe;
- we inspect the damaged tyre;
- if the damage is a small hole in the tread, we assess an on-the-spot repair;
- otherwise we carry out a wheel change with your spare or space-saver;
- we check the pressure before handing the car back to you.
Replacement with a new tyre needs to be checked on the phone based on size and availability.
Where do you find your car's tyre size?
The size is written on the tyre sidewall, for example 205/55 R16 91V: 205 is the width in mm, 55 the ratio of height to width, R indicates radial construction, 16 the rim diameter in inches, 91 the load index and V the speed rating. The approved sizes are also listed in the vehicle registration document. Step-by-step guide: how to read the tyre size.
Which tyre problems happen most often to cars in the city?
In the city, the typical situations are linked to roadworks, potholes, tram tracks and kerbs:
- a nail or screw in the tyre, often picked up near roadworks;
- hitting the kerb when parking, which can cause a bulge on the sidewall;
- potholes that damage the tyre and rim;
- tyres that slowly lose air and are discovered in the morning.
What should you prepare while waiting for the tyre fitter?
While you wait, as well as getting yourself safe, get ready what we need: empty the boot if the spare is under the floor, find the locking wheel nut key if your car has them, and apply the handbrake. If you're stopped on the road, follow the guide on how to stay safe.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell whether my car has run-flat tyres?
Run-flat tyres carry a specific code on the sidewall, which varies by manufacturer, for example RFT, RSC, ROF or SSR. You can also check the owner's manual or notice that there's no spare wheel or kit. If in doubt, send us a photo of the sidewall on WhatsApp.
Can I fit a spare wheel of a different size from the others?
You can use the spare wheel or space-saver supplied with the car, following the manufacturer's instructions and the limits shown on the space-saver. Fitting wheels of sizes other than those specified isn't advisable: always check the owner's manual and ask the technician if in doubt.
After the wheel change the pressure warning light stays on: is that normal?
It can happen, especially if the space-saver or spare has no sensor or if the system needs recalibrating. On many cars the reset procedure is described in the owner's manual. If, however, the light comes back on after the reset, check the pressure of all the tyres.
How often should I check my car's tyre pressure?
A good habit is to check it at least once a month and before a journey, always with the tyres cold. The correct values are given by the manufacturer, often on a label on the door pillar or inside the fuel filler flap. Remember to check the spare wheel or space-saver too.