Flat tyre: what to do safely
Changing a spare is a common roadside job, but only where you can work well away from traffic. On a motorway shoulder or a blind bend, safety comes before the tyre.
Safety classification
Safe homeowner task
This guide covers safe first actions only. It is not a licence to perform regulated work or enter a dangerous area.
What to do
- 1
Slow down and get off the road
Keep a firm grip on the wheel, slow gradually and move as far from traffic as possible. Turn on hazard lights.
- 2
Decide if it is safe to change
Only change a tyre on firm, level ground with plenty of room from traffic. Otherwise get behind a barrier and request help.
- 3
Check the spare and tools
Confirm the spare is inflated and you have the jack, wheel brace and any locking-nut key.
- 4
Change the wheel carefully
Loosen nuts slightly before jacking, jack only at the marked points, and never put any part of your body under the car.
- 5
Drive carefully and follow up
Space-saver spares have speed and distance limits. Have the damaged tyre checked and repaired or replaced promptly.
When to stop
- You are exposed to live traffic
- The wheel, rim or suspension is damaged
- The spare is flat, missing or the tools are missing
- The ground is soft, sloped or unstable
Roadside assistance
Prepare the problem, safety status and location once. The matching category and service will be pre-filled.
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