Changing a tyre can be a daunting prospect. Here are a few hints that can make life easier when changing a tyre.

• Gloves – Keep a pair in the car at all times.
• Bin Liner – Something to put a muddy tyre into. Keeps your car clean.
• Sturdy Board – If the ground is soft the jack may sink. Use as a stand.
• Wheel Nuts – Grease threads lightly to allow easy removal.
• Wheel Nuts – Make sure these are tightened correctly.
• Wheel Nuts – Correct tightening will allow easier removal next time.
• Wheel Balancing – Always have this done after repair.
• Tyre Pressure – Never drive too far or too fast after replacing a tyre until the pressure is checked and at the correct level. Refer to Owners Manual.
• Spare Tyre – Check and examine condition regularly. 

PUNCTURES
It is not always necessary to replace a tyre when punctured. In some cases the tyre can be repaired. However Black Circles advise that you get the Tyre checked by one of our Professional Fitters. If you have any queries, please call 0845 200 0022 for advice.

Here are some basic guidelines.

What can be repaired?
(In accordance with British Standards (BSAU 159))
Only certain areas of the tyre can be repaired. This is demonstrated below by Area’T’

Repairable Area - Definition of Area'T' 

 
 
The repairable area 'T' is defined as a percentage of the tyre's nominal section width and this is dependant on the type and size of the tyre.

Radial Ply tyres – Minor Repairs to Radial Tyres for Cars, Vans, and Commercial Vehicles

AREA T Defined as Percentage of Nominal Section Width CAR Up to and including 155mm 60% Above 155mm to 200mm 65% Above 200mm 70% Commercial Vehicle Up to and Including 225mm 60% Above 225mm to 305mm 65% Above 305mm 70%

Radial Tyre Limitations: Straight Penetration Damage (After Preparation) Type Of Tyre Maximum size of damage at base of injury in Area T Car 6mm Commercial Vehicle 10mm

Cross Ply tyres – Minor repairs to Cross Ply tyres for Cars, Vans, and Commercial Vehicles

AREA T Defined as Percentage of Nominal Section Width CAR Up to and including 155mm 60% Above 155mm to 200mm 65% Above 200mm 70% Commercial Vehicle Up to and Including 225mm 60% Above 225mm to 305mm 65% Above 305mm 70%

Diagonal (Crossply) Injury Limitations: Straight Penetration Damage (After Preparation) Type Of Tyre Maximum size of damage at base of injury in Area T Car 6mm Commercial Vehicle 10mm

Motorcycle & Scooter Cross Ply tyres – Minor Repairs for Tyres Motorcycles and Scooters

Area T is defined as 50% of Nominal Section width Injury Limitations: Straight Penetration Damage Tyre Max. Size of Damage Max. no. of repairs Up to J Speed Rating 6mm 2 Above J up to V Speed Rating 3mm 1 Above V Speed Rating - 0

What is Suitable for repair?

Black Circles would like to point out that certain checks are mandatory before repairing any tyre. (General Requirements of BSAU159f.) This ensures whether a tyre is suitable for repair.

Check the Following

• Minimum Tread Depth Requirement. (Cars 1.6mm, Truck & Motorcycle 1.0mm)
• Run-flat Damage
• Contamination
• Ageing/deterioration of the rubber
• Bead/Liner Damage
• Previous repairs not in accordance with BS159

If any of the above is evident it is recommended that tyre is not suitable for repair. Do not repair it. These are only guidelines, and not an exhaustive list. Basic principles of common sense must be adhered to when deciding upon puncture repair. If in any doubt contact Black Circles on 0845 200 0022 and we can arrange an inspection.

All Tyres must be checked before repair. Safety First.