The quick answer
Stop safely if the impact is followed by pressure loss, a bulge, vibration or a significant handling change. Have the tyre and wheel assessed where damage is suspected. Holding air or having good tread does not prove that the assembly escaped harm.
Notice the change without creating another risk
Remember what happened: which side took the impact, whether the tyre deflated, and whether the steering, noise or ride changed afterwards. You do not need a precise estimate of impact speed to make an enquiry. Do not repeat the manoeuvre or drive faster to reproduce the symptom.
If the vehicle is dangerously positioned, deal with people’s safety first. A photograph of the pothole or tyre is secondary, and you should not enter traffic to obtain one. See the flat tyre next-step guide for arranging appropriate assistance.
Look only from a safe, accessible position
An outward bulge can indicate damaged tyre reinforcement after an impact. Michelin describes structural sidewall damage. Report a visible bulge, cut, exposed material or loss of pressure. Do not prise open a cut or reach behind the wheel to examine a hidden sidewall.
A tyre may need removal and internal inspection to establish its condition. Say when the inner side or wheel cannot be seen; an uninspected area should not be described as undamaged.
Tell the assessor about the wheel as well
A tyre and rim work together as an assembly. Mention visible wheel distortion, a crack you noticed, or a suspected tyre-to-rim leak. Do not assume a new tyre will solve a damaged wheel or a changed steering setting.
If the wheel is unsuitable for use, fitting a tyre to it may not be the right next step. Agree what assessment or additional work is needed before treating replacement rubber as a complete solution.
Separate the symptom from the possible cause
| After the impact | Useful next discussion |
|---|---|
| Visible bulge or reinforcement | Urgent tyre-condition assessment and suitable assistance. |
| Pressure loss | Tyre, valve and wheel assembly investigation. |
| Vibration or altered steering | A broader wheel and vehicle assessment. |
| No obvious external mark | The impact history and whether a professional check is needed. |
This is a communication guide, not a fault-finding test. A symptom can have several explanations.
Explain any driving after the impact
Tell the professional how far you continued, whether the tyre was low or flat, and whether you used a spare or sealant. Do not withhold that history because the tyre currently looks better after inflation. It can affect the assessment of internal damage.
Keep any warning messages and pressure readings available. They may help establish the sequence, but they do not certify that the tyre is repairable or safe.
Prepare the replacement enquiry
For Fix My Tyre, send the registration, affected wheel, full tyre marking if safely accessible and current location. Mention the suspected wheel damage and any access restrictions. We confirm the compatible replacement, availability, price and working arrangements before agreeing attendance.
Our service is replacement rather than puncture repair, wheel refurbishment or alignment. If additional work or recovery is needed, clarify those arrangements separately so the fitting visit is planned around the vehicle’s actual condition.
Common questions
The tyre has not lost air. Is it fine?
Air retention does not establish structural condition. Report a significant impact and any changes; arrange assessment where damage is suspected.
Can I drive with a new bulge after a pothole?
Do not keep using a tyre with suspected structural damage. Stop safely and arrange professional assistance.
Will a new tyre fix a bent wheel?
No. The wheel needs its own assessment and any necessary repair or replacement before a suitable tyre can resolve the job.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked on 11 October 2026. Use the current official instructions for your vehicle and circumstances.