Getting a flat tire is something you cannot anticipate, but you can be prepared to handle it when it happens. Flat tire prep means knowing how to change your tire, having a functioning spare tire, and ensuring you are equipped with the proper equipment. In this month’s blog post, we share proactive steps to prepare if you unexpectedly get a flat tire on the road.
Do you know how to change a tire?
Even if you use a roadside service, it is helpful to know how to change your tire. There may be times when you are unable to get roadside assistance and will need to do it on your own.
Use your owner’s manual to review the steps for changing your vehicle tire. You can also search online for many videos that will step you through the process. More importantly, it is a good idea to actually practice changing a tire. Ask a friend or family member who knows how to change a tire to help you out. While you are learning how to change a tire, you can check off our remaining steps to ensure that you have everything you need.
Is your spare tire functional?
Believe it or not, many drivers do not realize that they need to keep their spare tire inflated along with their other vehicle tires. Don’t get into a situation where you discover your spare is underinflated when you are stranded on the side of the road.
Consult with your owner’s manual or the tire manufacturer for the proper air pressure of the tire. Check the pressure at least twice a year. Just because the spare is sitting in the trunk, does not mean it will lose air over time.
Determine what type of spare tire you have – is it a full-sized replacement, or a temporary donut? Apart from a full-sized spare, you should never drive on a spare tire at high speeds or great distances. Use the 50/50 rule – do not exceed 50 miles per hour or 50 miles driven.
Do you have the right equipment?
You can’t change a flat tire if you are missing the necessary equipment. The most important equipment you need includes:
- Car jack
- Lug nut remover/lug nut key
- Tire pressure gauge
- Automatic inflator
In addition to the equipment for changing the tire, you should also have items that can keep you safe while changing the tire.
First, always pull off the road as far as possible to a safe, flat area to change the tire. To keep you safe, make sure to include the following on your equipment list:
- Road flares
- Safety cones
- Safety vest or brightly colored flags
- A flashlight with spare batteries
No driver wants to think about getting a flat tire, but you can minimize the hassle and danger by taking a few simples steps to be prepared.
If you would like to have your spare tire checked, give the service professionals at Campus Repair a call today to schedule an appointment.