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I Got a Flat Tire, Now What?

I got a flat tire, now what? Discover what to do if you have a flat tire, and the advantages of calling roadside assistance.

Getting a flat tire is nearly unavoidable, at least if you drive even remotely consistently. Did you know that in the US about 7 flat tires happen every second?

If you’re a part of this statistic, you might be on the side of the road right now searching “I got a flat tire, now what?” on your phone. Even if you're not, you probably should make sure you know what to do since if it does happen, you want to be prepared!

Keep reading to discover what to do if you have a flat tire and the advantages of calling roadside assistance!

How Do I Take Care of My Tires Before a Flat?

Before we dive into the specifics of changing a flat, it’s important to understand basic tire maintenance. Following a few guidelines can help prevent a flat tire from happening in the first place.

First, you should make sure you have a spare tire in your car, and the necessary tools if you plan to change it yourself. This would include a lug wrench, wheel wedges, flashlight, gloves, and a jack.

If you do plan to change it alone, you should practice in your driveway. Otherwise, you could be in a dangerous scenario on the side of the road in the future.

There’s also a lot of tire maintenance you can follow to avoid having a flat tire. You should check the tire pressure on occasion. This will make sure it matches the recommended pressure requirements for your tires.

It’s also best to inspect the tires for any cracks, punctures or damage on a regular basis. If you do see any issues with your tires, you should get them inspected. Getting your tires rotated will help you to maintain them regularly.

Now that you are aware of basic tire care, what should you do if you have a flat?

What Should I Do If I Got a Flat Tire on a Parked Car?

If you are experiencing a flat, but your car is parked, you’ll be in a more convenient situation. In this case, start by inspecting the tires.

Lightly run your hands along the tire, both the front and the back. You’ll be looking for anything that could be stuck like a like or staple. If you don’t see anything lodged then you could just have low air in the tire.

At this point, you want to put on your spare tire instead of patching it yourself. You should drive to a service center or call roadside assistance to help.

What Should I Do If I Got a Flat Tire While Driving?

Getting a flat tire while driving can be a scary experience and you’ll definitely know when it’s happening. You’ll likely feel that the car is being pulled to the side of the flat tire. It could also feel like you aren’t able to accelerate.

Your first step should be to pull over to the side of the road as safely as you can. If you’re on the highway, make sure you pull over to the side with the shoulder. Make sure you aren’t at risk of being hit by other drivers.

If it’s nighttime, it’s also extremely important that you put your hazard lights on. If you have safety cones, use those to give other drivers an additional warning.

You’re now ready to put on your spare tire. You’ll need all the tools and spare tire to follow these steps.

How to Change a Flat Tire

First, you’ll need to position the wheel wedges. This will stop your car from rolling.

Then, loosen the lug nuts on your tire. Use the lug wrench to turn them counterclockwise. Now you’ll need the jack to lift the flat tire. It should be about six inches lifted and then you can remove the lug nuts.

To remove the tire, hold onto it and pull it toward you. You can then put on the spare tire. Align the tire rim with the lug bolts in order to put it on. Replace the lug nuts by turning them clockwise. Wait until they’re tightly screwed.

You can now lower the car until the tire touches the ground. Be careful to not allow it to support the car’s full weight just yet. Use the wrench to tighten the lug nuts.

Lower the car to remove the jack, and make sure the spare tire has a good amount of pressure before hitting the road.

At this point, if you’re having trouble following the steps, don’t have the tools available, or would rather have professional help, you should call roadside assistance.

Benefits of Roadside Assistance

Changing a flat tire can be a bit tricky, especially if you’ve never done it before or if you don’t have the proper tools with you. Also, many cars today won’t come with a spare tire (although buying one yourself isn't a bad idea if your car lacks one).

Calling roadside assistance will minimize your risk and allow you to remain in the car while you wait. Many people opt for roadside assistance because of the peace of mind it gives you. Knowing that you’ll have a professional that’s on call to help you or a family member makes you feel safer on the road.

S.O.S. Mobile Tire Corp specifically provides roadside assistance for many services, like tire repair and replacements!

Learning What to Do For a Flat Tire Keeps You Safe

Simply follow the guideline above if you’re on the side of the road wondering, “I got a flat tire, now what?” Remember that roadside assistance is the easiest and safest way to make sure you’re able to replace your car tire and get back on the road.

Click here to learn more about how we can help you with all your tire and car needs!