How to Handle a Flat Tire

Have you ever had a flat tire in the middle of nowhere? I can tell you right now it isn’t the best feeling in the world. Your mind will start racing. Where is my jack, how long will it take to fix this, can I do this, do I even have a spare tire? Those are all good questions, but wouldn’t it be better to know these things before you’re stuck on the side of the road?

Being prepared for a roadside mishap is the best plan. Let’s start with having the right supplies in your vehicle. You will need a jack, lug wrench, and spare tire. A flashlight, reflective cones, wheel wedges, gloves, and flat tire repair kit will also come in handy.
Next, you want to make sure that your supplies work. I recommend practicing changing your tire at least once with every vehicle you own. That way you know in advance what struggles you are going to have. You should also make sure that your spare tire is in good shape. Check your air pressure on a regular basis. Nothing is worse than taking out that spare and finding out that it is flat.
Now we are back on the side of the road, you have all your supplies, and you have done this at least once before so you know how long it’s going to take. Let’s take a few more minutes to make sure you know all the steps to change your tire safely.

Steps For Roadside Tire Change

1. Pull off the road to a safe location. You never want to travel on a flat tire so pick the closest area that is free of oncoming traffic and level.
2. Turn on Your hazard lights
3. Engage your parking Brake
4. Make sure you look around before exiting your vehicle
5. Gather your supplies and immediately put out reflective cones to guide traffic away from your vehicle.
6. Remove your wheel cover
7. Jack up the vehicle while remaining clear. Never place yourself underneath the vehicle
8. Loosen the lugs on the affected wheel
9. Remove the flat tire and place it on the ground.
10. Place your spare tire on the bolts.
11. Tighten the lugs.
12. Lower your vehicle and tighten the lugs again.
13. Replace the wheel cover and gather all of your equipment.

At this point, you have fixed your tire and should be on your way. Remember to drive slowly and use caution. Most spare tires are only meant to be driven on for short distances. I recommend visiting your auto repair shop or tire dealer to either fix your damaged tire or replace it. I hope these tips have helped you feel better about changing your tire. Make sure you have all your supplies, practice at least once, and follow all the safety precautions involved with a roadside repair. If you have any questions or need help checking your spare come see us at Boyd’s Tire & Service today!