Punctures and damaged tyres
Punctures occur when there’s a tear in your tyre’s rubber surface. That can either be repairable (if it’s superficial) or irreparable (if it penetrates through to the inner ring).
We cannot repair your tyre if:
- Puncture Location – If the damage is outside the central tread (especially near or on the sidewall), it likely affects the internal structure, meaning the tyre can’t be safely repaired and must be replaced.
- Run-Flat Tyres – These tyres are designed to keep you moving after a puncture, but the internal damage is impossible to assess accurately. For safety reasons, they should always be replaced rather than repaired.
Slow punctures are a common form of puncture. This occurs when the tear is small, leading to a gradual air leak. It can take days or even weeks to fully get flat. While it sounds less serious, driving on a slow punctured tyre can cause more damage to the rubber if not fixed quickly.
When To Get Your Tyre Replaced
We perform a thorough tyre inspection along with each replacement. We might also review your TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system) to ensure it can detect punctures and slow leaks.
You should get your tyre replaced if any of the following signs are present:
Puncture Repairs in Exeter
from M&M Tyres
Got an urgent puncture or a suspected slow leak? We can help. If you can’t make it down to the service centre, we’ll come to you — performing the repair or replacement wherever you are.
Book an appointment online or call us at 07702 615 145. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.
Frequently asked questions.
Our most frequently asked questions.
Yes, if correctly repaired, a previously punctured tyre should continue to function perfectly. If there’s any risk to your safety, we’ll always recommend a replacement. But generally, a repaired puncture is safe to drive on.
Usually, the most obvious sign of a puncture is that the tyre looks deflated. Modern vehicles contain a TPMS, with a sensor attached to each wheel. It detects any sudden or gradual loss of air pressure. In older vehicles, you should inspect your tyres every few months and look for signs of a slow leak.
Puncture repairs are quite quick, we’re usually finished in 20-30 minutes. If your tyre cannot be repaired, we can replace it. Replacing a tyre can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.
To check if your tyres are safe, use a 20p coin. If the inner rim is hidden, your tyre is likely safe with at least 3mm of tread. If you can see the outer rim, it might be less than 3mm and unsafe. You can also speak to one of our technicians for a safety check.
Whether it’s worth repairing a puncture depends largely on the size and location of the puncture in your tyre. Before proceeding with a repair, it’s advisable to have your tyres thoroughly checked by a professional technician.
The cost of a puncture repair can vary, so it’s advisable to contact us for accurate pricing details. Several factors can influence the cost, such as the type of tyre, the severity and location of the puncture, and any additional services or materials required for the repair.
The lifespan of a new tyre can vary significantly, influenced by both the type of tyre and how it’s used. Different tyres have different tread patterns and rubber compounds, which affect their durability. Factors like driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices also play a role in determining how long a tyre will last.
Absolutely, you can always give us a call to learn more about our mobile tyre-fitting services and our availability.
