What to Do If You Have a Tyre Blowout
A practical guide to tyre blowout for UK drivers, from the CarPal mobile tyre team.
What a blowout actually is
A blowout is sudden structural failure — the tyre lets go rather than deflating slowly. It is usually caused by heat build-up from running under-inflated, by impact damage, or by an existing bulge failing.
It is loud and the car pulls hard toward the failed corner.
The correct response
Grip the wheel firmly with both hands and keep the car straight. The pull will be strong but it is manageable if you do not fight it with a sudden correction.
Do not brake hard. Braking transfers weight forward and can turn a recoverable situation into a spin. Ease off the accelerator and let the car slow itself.
Once speed has bled off, indicate and move gently to the left, onto the hard shoulder or nearest safe place, then brake gently.
After you stop
Hazards on. Get out on the left and stand behind the barrier if you are on a motorway. Call 999 if you are in a dangerous position.
Do not attempt to change the wheel at the roadside on a motorway.
Preventing one
Most blowouts trace back to under-inflation. Checking pressures monthly is the single most effective prevention there is.
Also act on bulges immediately, and replace tyres showing sidewall cracking or impact damage rather than hoping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my tyre blows out?
Hold the wheel firmly, do not brake hard, ease off the accelerator, and steer gently to safety as speed drops.
Why should I not brake during a blowout?
Hard braking shifts weight forward and can cause a spin. Let the car slow naturally first.
What causes tyre blowouts?
Most commonly under-inflation causing heat build-up, plus impact damage and existing sidewall bulges.
Can a blown tyre be repaired?
No. A tyre that has failed structurally must be replaced.
Need help with a damaged tyre?
CarPal provides mobile tyre fitting and roadside assistance. Call us for help at your location.
Need help with your tyres?
Call 07888 861557 · 
WhatsApp 07459 623445
Flat tyre, blowout or a tyre that keeps losing pressure? CarPal comes to you — at home, at work or the roadside — anywhere in the UK, 24 hours a day
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