What to Do When You Get a Flat Tyre
A practical guide to nail in tyre for UK drivers, from the CarPal mobile tyre team.
Do not pull it out
While the nail is in place it is partially plugging the hole. Remove it and the tyre may deflate rapidly, turning a drivable situation into a roadside one.
Leave it, note roughly where it is, and get the tyre looked at promptly.
Check the pressure
If the tyre is holding pressure, you have time to get it repaired properly. Check it before setting off and again on arrival.
If it is losing pressure noticeably, treat it as a flat and do not drive on it.
Whether it can be repaired
A nail in the central three-quarters of the tread, under 6mm, in an otherwise sound tyre, is normally repairable to BS AU 159 — the tyre comes off the wheel, is inspected inside, and gets a combined plug-and-patch.
A nail in the shoulder or sidewall is not repairable. Neither is one in a tyre that has already been run flat.
Cost either way
A compliant repair is around £35. A replacement starts at £65 for a budget tyre fitted.
That gap is exactly why it is worth not driving on a deflating tyre — it turns the cheap outcome into the expensive one.
Common Questions
FAQs About Nails in Tyres
Should I remove a nail from my tyre?
No. Leave the nail in place because it may be partially sealing the puncture. Removing it could cause air to escape more quickly. Have the tyre inspected by a professional to determine whether a repair is possible.
Can I drive with a nail in my tyre?
Driving with a nail in your tyre can be dangerous, even if it appears to be holding pressure. Check the tyre pressure without removing the nail. If the tyre is losing air, visibly damaged or underinflated, do not drive on it. Arrange professional assistance instead.
How much does a nail puncture repair cost?
A puncture repair may cost around £35 where the damage is suitable for a compliant repair. Replacing the tyre may cost £65 or more, depending on its size and specification. The final cost depends on the tyre’s condition and whether the puncture can safely be repaired.
What if the nail is in the tyre sidewall?
A puncture in the sidewall cannot normally be repaired safely, so the tyre will need replacing. Avoid driving on a damaged or deflating tyre and arrange professional assistance to confirm the safest option.
Got a Nail in Your Tyre?
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