Changing a tyre can be a messy and frustrating job, especially if the nuts are on so tight even a weight-lifter would have difficulty. For these and other reasons, most women prefer to seek assistance when they find themselves faced with a flat tyre. In fact, in an AA Membership survey of 16,865 people, only 26% of women would change it themselves, compared to over 80% of men who said they would change their own flat tyre.

However, it could be that men, notoriously stubborn, choose to have a go themselves. Only after much time is spent, trying in vain to get the wrench to loosen the nuts, that they call for help. The fact is that about 14% of all AA Rescue call-outs are to motorists with a flat tyre and AA Patrols carry all the equipment needed and they can do it in a flash.

Changing a tyre on your own can be very dangerous, especially if the flat is on the side closest to the road. Other motorists, may not see you crouched down beside the wheel. AA Patrols are very well trained on the safety procedures for working at the scene and their vehicles have warning beacons.

To make sure you stay safe and protected on the roads, we've got one year's free membership of AA to give away to one lucky Her.ie reader. To win, just answer the simple question below. Good luck!