Is it safe to drive with a nail in my tyre?

Author Name – Ben Garner

20 Dec 2021 21 people

A nail in your tyre can be very annoying. It can make driving dangerous, can be expensive to fix and you may not even notice it unless you check your tyres.

nail in tyre

Unfortunately, having a nail in your tyre can happen quite frequently. You might spot it when you’re checking your tyres or if you have a slow puncture, but an untreated nail in a tyre can lead to your tyre blowing out and potentially causing an accident.

In this article, we’ll discuss how you can identify if you have a nail in your tyre, and what you can do to fix it.

To read a more detailed guide on puncture and tyre repairs, please click on the green button below.

Puncture Repairs

How to tell if you have a nail in your tyre

There are a few key ways to identify if there is a nail in your tyre. We recommend checking your tyres before you drive anywhere, regardless of having a puncture. Upon an inspection, you should notice if a nail is stuck in the tyre.

Another way to tell is if you have a slow puncture. If your tyre is slowly deflating over time, you should bring it to one of our branches for repair. Our friendly technicians will be able to identify the cause of the slow puncture and repair it or replace if needed. To find your nearest branch, click the button below.

Branch Locator

Our team will also notice if you have a nail in your tyre during a service, MOT or FREE safety check. To book a safety check, click the link below.

FREE Safety Check

Can you drive with a nail in your tyre?

It is not safe to drive with a nail in your tyre, as a puncture could lead to a blowout at any time. The only reason you should drive with a nail in your tyre is to get to a garage for a repair or replacement for your tyre.

Call in to one of our branches and our technicians will be able to tell you if it can be repaired or if you need a new tyre.

Is a nail in a tyre an MOT failure?

Any sharp object embedded in your tyre, including nails, will cause your car to fail its MOT. This is due to the tyre being punctured which could lead to a blowout. This is deemed unsafe and would make your car illegal to drive without having it repaired or replaced.

Do I need a new tyre if I have a nail in it?

If the nail is in the middle section of the tyre and hasn’t caused the tyre structure to fail, you may not need a new tyre. National can repair punctures if your tyre still maintains a strong structure and no other damage has been done to it. However, if is best to speak to one of our experts first before deciding to replace or repair your tyre, as they will be able to give their opinion on the puncture.

What are the risks of dangerous tyres?

Every year, dangerous tyres lead to around 5,000 convictions, 900 casualties, and 160 deaths or serious injuries. Not only that, but illegal tyres can actually end up costing you more than the price of a new set: you could face fines of up to £2500 and 3 points on your licence per illegal tyre, not to mention that if you're found to have illegal tyres in an accident, it can invalidate your insurance.

A free tyre check from National can make sure your four wheels are ready for the road. Book in now to stay safe on your journeys.

Book a Free Tyre Check

Want to know more about looking after your tyres? Check out our online tyre safety hub.

Where can I get a new tyre?

We have over 240 branches across the UK, making it super convenient to get your tyre replaced. We also offer mobile fitting in some areas, so we can replace your tyre at your home, at work or any location of your choice. To order a new tyre for your vehicle, click the button below.