What to Do When You Get a Flat Tire

Make sure you know how to handle a flat tire.

Imagine you’re driving down the freeway and suddenly you hear an ominous thump. You tense immediately and keep your eyes glued to the dashboard. Your worst fears are confirmed when your tire light blinks on: you have a flat tire.

This scenario could happen to any driver at any time. Read on to make sure you know what to do when you get a flat tire.

Be Safe

If you blow a tire while you’re on the highway, do your best to take the nearest exit and pull into a gas station. If that isn’t possible, pull over to a shoulder that is clearly visible from the road. Before you exit the car, make sure you are on level ground and apply the parking brake. Always turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers to be careful.

Inspect the Damage

Examine your tire and determine whether the tire can be repaired or should be replaced. If the puncture has a diameter greater than ¼ inch, then it cannot be repaired. Additionally, if the puncture is in the tire’s sidewall, repairs should not be attempted. When in doubt, it’s better to simply replace the damaged tire with your spare.

Remove the Tire

Break the seal on the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise with your tire wrench. Jack up your car a few inches off the ground, making sure you have enough space to remove and replace your tire. To find the best spot to place your jack, check your owner’s manual. Use your tire wrench to remove the lug nuts completely and pull the tire straight towards you. This may require some effort on your part.

Put on Your Spare

Place your spare onto the hub, making sure to align the wheel and wheel bolts. Replace all the lug nuts and tighten by hand. Use the tire wrench to tighten further. Be careful not to completely tighten any lug nut at once, alternate tightening each lug nut to ensure the wheel is balanced. Lower the car and remove the jack. Check to make sure all the lug nuts are tightened completely. Now you’re good to go!

Remember these steps and stay safe the next time you blow a tire. Having the right auto insurance is also an important part of staying safe. Contact the professionals at Robert J. Los Insurance Agency in Hamburg, New York for all your personal and commercial insurance needs.