It’s a situation no one wants to find themselves in, and it’s always a huge inconvenience, no matter where it happens. Getting a flat tire, and figuring out what to do right after, is one of the most stressful things that can happen to a driver, especially if it’s happened somewhere unfamiliar. So what exactly should you do right after you’ve found yourself stuck with a flat tire? What if you can’t find a clear space to pull over, or don’t have the right tools to change the flat tire out with a spare? No matter what the circumstances are, be sure to follow a few key steps so that you can get back on the road safely.
Turn on Your Hazard Lights and Pull Over
The first and most important thing for you to do is once you know you’ve gotten a flat tire, turn on your hazard lights to alert other motorists that something is wrong. With these hazard lights on, drivers on the road will be able to know to go around your car and hopefully clear the way so that you can pull over. If you’re on a highway or a crowded street, you might have to drive a little bit more to find a safe stretch of road. Once you have gotten off of the main road, try and give yourself as much space as possible so that you can safely get out of your vehicle to assess the damage and take stock of what tools you have available.
Now It’s Time To Change Out The Flat Tire
As soon as you’re safely out of the way of traffic and have checked what tools you have, you can start changing your tire if you have a spare. Other necessary supplies are a jack lift, a wrench, and safety wedges.
Change your tire with these steps:
- Turn the lug nuts on the flat tire counter clockwise
- Loosen the lug nuts and take them off
- Use the jack lift to lift up your vehicle
- Pull off the flat tire and replace it with the spare tire by lining up the tire rim and lug bolts
- Put the lug nuts on to the spare tire and tighten
- Lower the car back to the ground and take off the jack lift
- Check that your spare has adequate tire pressure before driving
If you are missing any of the tools, a durable spare tire, or are unsure if you are able to complete the steps, call a towing company and get your car to a trusted mechanic. If you have successfully changed your flat tire, keep in mind that a spare tire is not a permanent fix, and spares should only be driven on for a few miles, or until you can get your car to the nearest auto shop.
For Flat Tire Help, Come To RSW Auto Repair!
If you’ve found yourself stuck with a flat tire or just need a simple tire rotation, come see the pros at RSW Auto Repair, and we’ll get you taken care of! Call or book online for your appointment today!
