Tips to Prepare for a Flat Tire in Colorado Springs

Recently, I had a flat tire.  Even though I knew how to change a tire, I had never changed a tire on my current vehicle.  A woman alone on I-25…and my phone died! I felt very uncomfortable.

Do you know how to change your tire on your current vehicle?  I was fortunate that a “good Samaritan” stopped by (after about 20 minutes … seemed like an hour!) and helped me out.  I was very thankful (thank you, Barry!).

How Does Driving on A Flat Tire Cause More Damage?

Recently, I followed a Hyundai with a flat tire, and he was driving with his emergency flashers turned on.  I don’t know how long he drove on that flat, but likely long enough to ruin the tire and possibly the rim as well.

Driving on a flat or low tire weakens and damages the sidewalls, and if you drive very far, the tire will likely need to be replaced.  With no air in the tire, there is nothing to protect and cushion the wheel rim.  If the rim is bent or the lip on the wheel is damaged, it will also require replacement since it will be unable to keep a seal and will not allow the tire to hold air.

Pull over as soon as you safely can when you have a flat tire, turn your emergency flashers on, and either change the tire or call for assistance.  It can save you time and money – a new tire can run into a few hundred dollars (or you may need 4 new tires, if you drive a 4-wheel drive car). If the wheel rim becomes bent or damaged, add another couple hundred for a replacement rim.

Tips to Help You Prepare for A Flat Tire

My suggestion is that, right now – before you are in an emergency situation- take stock of what and where everything is that you will need.

·         Where is your spare (“doughnut”) tire?  Is your spare tire properly inflated?

·         Can you access your tire jack?  Do you know how to use it?

·         How do you place the jack on the car frame without damaging the car?

·         Do you know where your wheel lock tool is and how to use it?

Pull out your Owner’s Manual – it is the best place to start.  The directions are generally very clear for how to change your tire, and where to find the needed tools.  First, place the jack under the car and put a partial load on the jack.  Second, you will need to loosen the lug nuts on the tire.  Then use the jack to raise the vehicle and wheel off of the ground.  Remove the tire from the car, and replace it with your spare tire.  Lastly, retighten the lug nuts and then remove and replace the jack.  Note: you may need to let the car the down a little so the tire and wheel do not turn while you are tightening the lug nuts.

Please understand that is not safe to drive above 50mph on your spare (check your Owner’s Manual for your specific spare tire), since it is not designed to be driven at higher speeds or for extended periods of time.  Bring your flat tire to Honest Accurate Auto‘s repair shop soon, and have the tire repaired, if possible.  Tires with a hole near the sidewall may not be able to be replaced safely – your Honest Accurate Auto technician will be able to advise you.

Flat tires do happen, at the most inconvenient times.  Be prepared and it will go much more smoothly!