Getting a flat tire while on the road can be an headache and a hazard, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding how to change a flat tire, and knowing a few tricks for a roadside repair, you’ll be ready to handle whatever the road throws your way. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe and on the go.

Changing a Flat Tire

The first step in changing a flat tire is to take the applicable emergency tools out of your trunk or car, including the car jack and tire iron. Make sure you have jacked up the car a safe distance from the ground before removing the lug nuts. With those nuts out of the way, you can remove the wheel and replace it with the spare. Finally, tighten the lug nuts finger-tight, lower the car, and use the tire iron to give them an extra turn.

Tire Repair Tips

Before installing your spare tire, you can use tire repair kits to fill small punctures in the flat tire and stop the air leak. Put a layer of the plug strip over the puncture and press it down; it will stick and form a plug. To secure the plug, apply a layer of the tire sealant and press it into the hole. Place the punctured tire back on your vehicle and reinflate it to normal pressure.

If the hole in the tire is too big for the plug kit, the tire may need to be replaced. Have the tire checked by a professional, and if it cannot be repaired, have it safely disposed of and get a new one.

Trustworthy Tow Services

If the flat tire is beyond repair and requires professional assistance, here are a few tips on how to choose a trustworthy tow service. Start by checking online reviews from real customers. Also, ask whether they use flat-bed tow trucks instead of the wheel-lift style, and whether their drivers are equipped to change tires instead of just performing a tow. Talk to a few different tow services on the phone before selecting one and asking them to come to your location.

Roadside emergencies can be a hassle, but with the right knowledge and tools you can be prepared for any situation. When it comes to changing a flat tire and making roadside repairs, safety should always be a priority.