Tyre age is a hot topic within the automotive world. There are many factors that will affect the age, longevity and that all-important tread depth, with everything from your vehicle’s weight, driving style and speed to tyre position, pressure and alignment impacting condition. How long tyres have been stored for before fitting can also determine their physical condition going forward.

As your tyre gets older and increasingly worn, the risk of sustaining a puncture also rises. Over inflation, valve stem damage, and road hazards such as potholes can cause punctures too. If you suffer a puncture on the road, your spare tyre is usually the first port of call. But what if you don’t have a spare? Read on to find out more about your options…

Invest in a tyre repair kit

Who needs a spare when you have a tyre repair kit to hand? A tyre repair kit is a great and easy to use option if you have to make an emergency stop due to a puncture. In your kit, you’ll generally find sealant and an air compressor to complete a speedy patch job on small punctures.

It is important to remember that use of a tyre repair kit only offers a temporary fix. This means you should make your way to a mechanic as soon as possible after completing your repair.

Choose run-flat tyres

If your tyres are due for replacement, why not consider run-flat tyres? These tyres may offer a firmer ride and be more expensive, but when you sustain a puncture, they can be a real time saver.

Due to their reinforced sidewalls and internal structure, run flats are designed to run even in a deflated state, meaning if you do sustain a puncture, you can continue your journey. Vehicles with punctured run-flat tyres should last a maximum of 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50mph as a rule of thumb, giving you plenty of time to seek the tyre repair or replacement required.

Run-flat tyres can however only be fitted in conjunction with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Call for roadside assistance

If you find yourself stranded and without a spare tyre following a puncture, don’t panic. Even if you didn’t invest in run flats or a tyre repair kit, finding a safe place to stop and requesting roadside assistance is the best option to get you moving once more.