Why Your Tyres Keep Losing Pressure Even After You Inflate Them

You inflate your tyre.

A few days later, the pressure is low again.

So you inflate it again.

Then it happens again.

If one tyre keeps losing pressure while the others seem fine, there's usually a reason.

It could be a slow puncture, a problem with the valve, damage to the tyre or an issue where the tyre meets the wheel.

The important thing is not to keep topping it up and assume the problem will go away.

Here's what could be causing the pressure loss.

1. You Have a Slow Puncture

A slow puncture is one of the most common reasons a tyre keeps losing pressure.

A nail, screw or other sharp object can become lodged in the tread.

The tyre may not go flat immediately.

Instead, air escapes slowly over several days.

You might notice that one tyre is consistently lower than the others.

If that's happening, have the tyre inspected rather than repeatedly inflating it.

2. The Valve May Be Leaking

The valve is a small part, but it plays an important role in keeping air inside the tyre.

If the valve or valve core isn't sealing properly, air can gradually escape.

You may not see anything wrong when looking at the tyre.

A tyre specialist can check the valve and determine whether it's the source of the leak.

3. The Tyre Could Be Damaged

Tyres can lose pressure because of damage that isn't immediately obvious.

Check for:

• Cuts
• Cracks
• Bulges
• Punctures
• Damage to the sidewall

If you've hit a pothole or kerb recently, the tyre should be inspected even if it doesn't look badly damaged.

4. The Tyre Isn't Sealing Properly Against the Wheel

The tyre needs to form an airtight seal against the wheel.

If there's damage, corrosion or another problem around the sealing area, air can slowly escape.

This can be particularly frustrating because the tyre may look perfectly normal from the outside.

If pressure keeps dropping after inflation, the wheel and tyre assembly should be checked.

5. Cold Weather Can Lower Tyre Pressure

Temperature affects tyre pressure.

When temperatures drop, the air inside the tyre contracts and the pressure reading can decrease.

That doesn't necessarily mean you have a puncture.

However, if one tyre continues losing pressure while the others remain stable, there may be another issue that needs investigation.

6. You're Not Checking the Pressure Correctly

Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold.

Driving heats the tyres and temporarily changes the pressure reading.

Always follow the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Don't use the maximum pressure printed on the tyre sidewall as your normal vehicle setting.

7. Uneven Pressure Can Affect Your Tyres

Driving with incorrect tyre pressure can affect more than comfort.

It can change:

• Handling
• Braking
• Fuel consumption
• Tyre wear

If your tyres aren't holding the correct pressure, you're also making it harder to maintain even wear across the tread.

One Tyre Losing Pressure Is Different From All Four

This is a useful clue.

If all four tyres are slightly lower than expected, temperature or normal pressure loss may be part of the reason.

If one tyre repeatedly loses pressure while the others don't, a leak or damage is more likely.

Either way, repeated pressure loss deserves attention.

Don't Keep Driving on an Underinflated Tyre

It's tempting to keep inflating the tyre whenever the pressure drops.

That only deals with the symptom.

If there's a puncture or another fault, the underlying problem remains.

Driving for extended periods with an underinflated tyre can increase heat and wear and may cause further tyre damage.

Getting the cause identified is the safer approach.

Check Your Tyres After Hitting a Pothole

Blacktown and Western Sydney drivers know that potholes and rough road surfaces can appear unexpectedly.

A significant impact can damage a tyre or wheel.

If your tyre starts losing pressure after hitting a pothole or kerb, don't assume it's coincidence.

Have the tyre and wheel inspected.

It's also worth checking the wheel alignment if the vehicle feels different afterwards.

What If the Tyre Looks Fine?

A tyre can have a slow leak without showing obvious damage.

That's why visual inspection isn't always enough.

If you've inflated the same tyre several times recently, tell your tyre specialist.

They can check the tyre, valve and wheel to find where the air is escaping.

How Often Should You Check Tyre Pressure?

Check your tyre pressure regularly and before longer trips.

Your vehicle's recommended pressures are normally listed on the tyre placard, often located around the driver's door area.

Use those figures as your guide.

Regular checks also give you an opportunity to notice if one tyre is consistently losing pressure.

Questions Drivers Ask Us

Q- Why does one tyre keep losing pressure?

A- A slow puncture, leaking valve, tyre damage or a sealing problem between the tyre and wheel can all cause gradual pressure loss.

Q- Is it normal for tyre pressure to drop over time?

A- Some gradual pressure loss is normal. A tyre that repeatedly loses a noticeable amount of pressure needs to be checked.

Q- Can a nail cause a slow tyre leak?

A- Yes. A nail or screw can remain lodged in the tread and allow air to escape gradually.

Q- Should I keep inflating a tyre that keeps going flat?

A- Inflating it may get you moving temporarily, but it doesn't fix the cause. Have the tyre inspected.

Q- Can potholes cause tyre pressure problems?

A- Yes. A significant pothole impact can damage the tyre or wheel and may result in pressure loss.

Don't Ignore a Tyre That Keeps Going Flat

If you're regularly reaching for the air compressor, something may be wrong.

A slow puncture or valve problem can be easier to deal with when it's found early.

If one of your tyres keeps losing pressure, visit Goodyear Autocare Blacktown. We'll check the tyre and wheel, explain what we find in plain English and only recommend the work your car actually needs.