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Changing Flat Tires: How to Get Back on The Road Safely

Getting a flat tire can be a scary experience for any driver. Whether due to road hazards or the normal wear and tear of everyday driving, a flat can affect your vehicle’s handling and increase your risk of an accident.

Knowing how to change a flat tire to get back on the road safely is essential. Fortunately, it’s not challenging to do yourself.

Preparation

It can be stressful and anxiety-inducing when you get a flat tire, but preparing ahead is essential. It will ensure you’ve got everything you need to change the tire and avoid becoming stranded on the side of the road.

It’s also important to know the best flat fixing spots – such as parking lots or low-traffic areas that are level and smooth. This knowledge will allow you to quickly find a safe place to stop when the time comes and start changing the tire. Many individuals find it challenging to fix, or depending on the location, it could not even be safe. Utilizing flat tire replacement Aurora CO is the answer.

Once you’ve found a safe spot to pull over, follow the directions in your owner’s manual to set up flares, reflective triangles and warning lights. You can also place wheel wedges to help prevent the car from rolling while putting the new tire on.

Find a Safe Place to Park

When you become aware that a tire is flat, gradually reduce your speed, activate your warning lights, and search for a secure spot to stop. A large shoulder on the side of the road or a parking lot may be it.

Once you’ve stopped, put your car in park and apply the parking brake. It will help prevent your vehicle from rolling back while you change the flat tire.

It’s also a good idea to block the tire opposite the flat tire with a large brick or another heavy object. When you raise it with the jack, it will make the car less likely to roll.

Remove the Hubcap

While many people need to think more about the wheel covers and hubcaps on their cars, they serve a critical functional purpose. They protect the lug nuts from dirt and moisture and keep debris from entering the wheel hubs.

There are two main types of wheel caps: bolt-on and clip-on. Bolt-on caps attach to the wheel with lug nuts, while clip-on caps slot snugly into a groove.

Hubcaps are a great way to enhance your car’s style while keeping the wheels clean and protecting lug nuts from dirt and moisture. However, they can sometimes be hard to remove and replace by yourself.

Inflate the Tire

Maintaining the condition of your tires is one of the simplest methods to ensure their function and safety since they are crucial to your car’s performance and safety. Check your tire pressure when you refuel or regularly inflate them using an air compressor.

If you need to figure out how much air your tires need, it’s best to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The recommended psi for your car’s tires should be listed there, though it can vary from vehicle to vehicle.

To check your tire pressure, unscrew the valve stem and insert a hand or foot gauge into the air valve until it reads an accurate pressure reading. Most tires need 30-35 psi, but check your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you’re using the proper air for your car.

Put the New Tire on

A flat tire can be a significant emergency that requires immediate attention. It can also leave you in a dangerous situation, especially if you’re stuck on the side of a busy road or highway.

Inspecting its tread and rim, drivers can tell when a tire is ready for replacement. Check for irregular or uneven wear that could indicate a safety issue with the tire.

Most DOT-approved tires have built-in treadwear indicators, which show when the tire’s tread is worn to two-thirty seconds (2/32) of an inch. It could be necessary to replace the tire if this signal is considerably off-balance or unequal.