It’s inevitable that at some point you will experience a flat tire. Flats can be caused by anything from running over a sharp object to hitting a curb too hard. No matter what the cause, it’s important to know how to prevent and/or deal with a flat tire when it happens. But before we tell you what you should do in case you get a flat tire, let’s first talk about what could have caused it.
What causes a flat tire?
Flat tires can be caused by a variety of things or they can also be due to a combination of causes. Sometimes, the tires can naturally get flat as it is used or when the tires are already worn out and old.
The most common cause of a flat tire is running over something sharp that punctures the tire. This could be anything from glass to nails, and it’s usually unavoidable. Other causes could include hitting a curb too hard, which can damage the rim or sidewall of the tire; driving on an underinflated tire, or simply having worn-out tires.
Although tires may be able to go through such scenarios without getting a flat, it is still possible to get a flat if the pressure is too much for your tires. Now that would depend on the current condition of your tires and how you prepare them.
What to do if you get a flat tire?
If you find yourself with a flat tire, the first thing to do is take a deep breath. This can be stressful and frustrating, but it’s important to stay calm so you can handle the situation in the best way possible.
Once you’ve calmed down, assess what happened and then check if your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated. If it isn’t, or if you don’t have one, contact roadside assistance for help.
If you do have a spare tire that is in working order, change out your tires following the instructions in your car manual. Make sure to place all of the lug nuts on securely before driving off again.
How to change a flat tire
1. Make sure you park in a safe, flat area.
2. Apply the parking brake and then turn off the engine.
3. Place blocks or wedges behind the opposite wheel so that it does not move when attempting to loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire.
4. Loosen the lug nuts with a wrench (they should come off relatively easily).
5. Lift up the car with a jack, being careful not to lift it too high as it could be dangerous.
6. Take off all of the lug nuts, then carefully remove the flat tire and set it aside.
7. Put the spare tire onto the hub, ensuring all of the lug nuts are tightened securely before lowering the car
How to prevent getting a flat tire?
The best way to prevent getting a flat tire is to check your tires regularly. Check the air pressure and inspect the treads for wear and tear. If you notice any punctures or cuts, take it to a professional as soon as possible.
Tire pressure is very important as it could help make sure that your tires are able to handle the heavy load. That is why you should make it a habit to regularly check your tire pressure and make sure that it is optimal.
Rotating your tires is another good way to prevent your car from getting flat. You should have the tires rotated every five to seven thousand miles or so, which will help ensure that all of the tires wear out evenly. This can prolong the life of your tires and save you money in the long run.
Finally, if you are aware that you may be driving over rough terrain, it’s best to prepare your car accordingly. Make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and check for any inconsistencies with the treads before going on your journey.
Conclusion
Although getting a flat tire is never ideal, we hope this article has helped you understand how to both prevent and deal with them. By following these steps, you should now feel more prepared if ever faced this problem again! Remember- prevention is key, so make sure to regularly check your tires for any wear and tear.
Flat tires can happen when you least expect it. If you happen to be in Cincinnati and don’t know what to do with your flat tire, call One Click Towing Company for their mobile flat tire services...
