How To Tell When You Have A Flat Tire and What to Do
What are the tell-tale signs your tire has gone flat?
- Steering feels heavier or harder to control
- You hear a flapping or thumping noise while driving
- The vehicle pulls to one side
Overview
- Flat tires are common on Philippine roads, but early detection and proper response can keep you safe. Signs include heavier steering, rhythmic thumping noises, and your vehicle pulling to one side.
- If you experience a flat, stay calm, turn on hazard lights, and find a safe place to stop.
- If unsure about changing the tire, use the Motolite RES-Q app for 24/7 roadside assistance. This app connects you quickly to trained technicians who can help, so you’re never stranded.
- Staying prepared and knowing what to do ensures safety and peace of mind on the road.
Getting a flat tire is something many drivers face, especially with the rough roads and extreme weather common across the Philippines. But how often have you experienced it, and how confident are you in changing one?
Before panic sets in and costly repairs pile up, you must know how to tell when you have a flat tire early and understand the best steps to stay safe on the road.
When you realize you might have a flat tire, the first step is to stay calm and pull over safely. Once you’ve stopped, check the tire’s condition before deciding on your next move—whether that’s replacing it with a spare, using a repair kit, or calling for help. For situations like this, having the Motolite RES-Q app on your phone is a lifesaver. With 24/7 roadside assistance, you can get immediate help not just for flat tires, but also for battery troubles and other emergencies
Download the RES-Q App now: Google Play | App Store | AppGallery
Steering Feels Heavier Or Harder To Control
If your steering suddenly feels heavier or harder to turn, it could mean you have a flat tire. This happens because a deflated tire has less air pressure, causing it to drag and resist smooth rolling.
Unlike issues such as power steering failure, which might cause a sudden loss of assist, a flat tire makes the steering wheel physically tougher to turn, especially when you’re driving slowly or making sharp turns, like pulling into a parking spot.
You Hear A Flapping Or Thumping Noise While Driving
This happens because the deflated tire doesn't roll smoothly, causing uneven contact with the road. On smooth roads, this noise is usually a steady, repetitive thump-thump-thump that matches the rotation of the wheel and gets louder as you speed up.
In contrast, other car noises like engine knocking tend to be irregular. They might speed up or slow down unpredictably, change in pitch, or come and go inconsistently. So if you hear a steady, rhythmic noise that feels tied to your wheel’s rotation, it’s a strong sign of a flat tire.
The Vehicle Pulls To One Side
When a tire goes flat, it loses the air pressure needed to properly support the vehicle’s weight, causing it to sag visibly. This imbalance makes the car lean and pull toward the side with the flat tire, especially noticeable when accelerating, braking, or turning. Without adequate air pressure, the tire can’t absorb shocks evenly, resulting in a bumpier and rougher ride.
What Should I Do When I Have A Flat Tire?
A flat tire can happen anytime, often when you least expect it. Knowing how to respond quickly and safely is crucial to protect yourself, your passengers, and other road users. Follow these steps to handle any situation calmly and effectively.
Stay Calm And Keep Control
Avoid sudden movements or hard braking. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to maintain control as you slow down safely.
Turn On Your Hazard Lights
Alert other drivers by turning on your hazard lights right away. This signals that your vehicle is experiencing trouble and helps prevent accidents.
Find A Safe Spot To Stop
Look for a wide, flat area away from traffic, like a shoulder or parking lot. Avoid stopping on blind curves or narrow roads where visibility is low.
Check You Surroundings
Before getting out of the car, make sure it’s safe to do so. Watch for oncoming vehicles and assess the environment for any hazards.
Call For Roadside Assistance
If you’re not confident in changing the tire yourself, open the Motolite RES-Q app on your phone. Simply select the flat tire service, confirm your exact location through the app’s GPS feature, and submit your request. Once your request is sent, a trained Motolite technician will be dispatched to your location promptly.
While you wait, stay safely inside your vehicle if possible or in a secure spot nearby. The app provides real-time updates on the technician’s estimated arrival time, so you’ll know exactly when help is coming. The team carries all the necessary tools and expertise to quickly change your tire and get you back on the road with minimal hassle.
Key Takeaway
Knowing how to tell when you have a flat tire early is not just about avoiding inconvenience; it’s about taking control of your safety and that of everyone on the road.
When you notice the signs, act immediately, and ensure you have the RES-Q app installed on your phone before you start your drive. You can also reach out to us through our official hotlines at Motolite or message us on our official Facebook page to know more about the services we offer.
