If you have found that you are filling up your tyres with air more often, it might be due to a leak. It would be nice if you found a nail or other object stuck in the tyre, as it makes it very obvious where the leak is coming from. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Using your senses can help you find the leak so you are able to patch it up instead of having to get a brand new tyre. Here are ways to use three of your senses for finding an air leak in your tyre.
Look for Bubbles
The first sense that helps you find a tyre air leak is your sense of sight. Unless you have found an object stuck in the tyre, it can be hard to find a crack or hole in a tyre. The best thing you can do is use soapy water to find the source of the leak. Just about any type of cleaner that makes bubbles will work for this method. Either pour some dish soap into a spray bottle with water or just grab a bottle of window cleaner. Spray the bottle in different areas of the tyre, covering small sections at a time. If you see any bubbles start to form on the tyre, that is the area of the leak. When you find a problem area, mark it with a white oil-based pencil and move on. Continue doing this for all sections of the tyres.
Listen for a High-Pitched Sound
The next sense you can use to find a tyre leak is your sense of hearing. You might be able to hear a high-pitched hissing sound coming from the area of the leak. The best way to use this method is by first filling up the tyre with air. Put your head close to the tyre and try to listen for any odd sounds. It may take a few tries of moving your head in order to hear the sound. Some leaks cause more of a high-pitched sound, while others is a lower hissing sound. This can at least help you find the general area of the tyre, then the bubbles help you pinpoint the location exactly.
Feel for an Escape of Air
You may also be able to use your sense of feeling to find the air escaping. This requires the tyre to be filled once more, so you can feel around for the air beginning to escape. It tends to work better with a fuller tyre. Slowly move the palm of your hand around different areas of the tyre until you can feel a faint feeling of air escaping. It may be very subtle, so move your hand slowly. A good place to start is any area of the tyre with low tread or obvious signs of wear.
If you have any other questions about tyre air leaks, consider calling a local tyre specialist, such as Metro Tyre Service, to discuss your concerns.
