If your tyre keeps going flat but you can’t find a clear puncture, you might be dealing with a slow leak. From trapped nails to faulty valves, several hidden issues can cause gradual pressure loss. In this guide, we explain how to identify a slow puncture, what warning signs to look for, and when to replace your tyre for safety.
While most drivers and vehicle owners are wary of sudden blowouts and punctures when driving, arguably the most inconvenient of issues is tyre that keeps going flat despite no obvious damage.
If you have a vehicle and one of the tyres keeps losing air pressure and going flat, the likelihood is that you are facing a slow puncture. In this article, we’re looking at the causes of slow punctures, what they are, and what you should do to keep your vehicle safely on the road.
What is a Slow Puncture?
If you have a tyre that keeps going flat, the chances are you have a slow puncture. This is characterised by damage to the structure of the tyre, which allows air to leak at a very slow and gradual rate.
A slow puncture is not immediately noticeable as air is not lost suddenly from the tyre – rather, the air and pressure loss is gradual. This means that while the tyre can likely get you from A to B, over the course of the journey and any time being left to stand in a car park or driveway, the tyre will steadily lose pressure.
What Causes a Slow Puncture?
Slow punctures can be caused by all manner of issues, from a nail or debris that gets stuck in the outer edge of the tyre to a tiny hole caused by driving over a pothole or bumping the curb.
A slow puncture could also be caused by damage to the tyre valve – that is, the small nozzle through which you add and remove more air. If this valve is not sealed effectively, it can cause air to leak from around its base.
How to Confirm a Slow Puncture
Tyres losing air and you’re not sure why? The best way to confirm a slow puncture is to drive slowly and see how well the vehicle responds to steering and braking.
If the steering wheel keeps pulling to one side, then there is a chance that you have a slow puncture. Similarly, if the steering wheel feels juddery or you can sense some vibration coming from the wheel, then there is a high chance you have an issue with your tyres,
What to Do if You Have a Slow Puncture
The first challenge that vehicle owners face when their tyre keeps deflating, is identifying the location of a slow puncture.
A visual inspection is often enough to find the source of a slow puncture – mainly because in most cases, you will quickly find a nail or something else sharp sticking out of the tyre tread. If this is the case, you can assess the damage and determine if the hole is suitable for a DIY tyre repair, or if it needs to be replaced straight away.
If you cannot see a nail or other sign of debris, then the chances are that damage has struck the valve. In this case, replace the tyre with a spare and get it to your local garage for a professional check and potential replacement.
