CHANGING A FLAT TIRE: ARE YOU PREPARED?

Even though rarer than years past, flat tires can happen any time you’re driving…so it’s important to always be prepared. Not only do you need to know how to change out the flat for a spare, but you need to make sure you have all the right tools to do so. Here are a few tips for coming prepared the next time you get a flat.

1. Put Together a Kit
Putting together a kit that will help you change your tire in the event of a flat is the first step in being prepared. Make sure it includes instructions on how to change your flat in case you forget, all the proper tools you’ll need to change the tire, and your spare tire. Your owner’s manual as well as some labels near your jack should have instructions as well. You should also remember to check your spare regularly, so you know it’ll be there and ready to go when you need it.

2. Pick a Safe Spot
Not every spot on the highway is an ideal place to stop. Oncoming cars can be careless and sometimes not notice you stopped on the side of the road. Pick somewhere close by that won’t be dangerous, and put your hazards on while you slowly make your way there. Don’t drive too long on your rim, otherwise, you’ll need to replace that too.

3. Know All Your Tools
You may know the basics of changing a tire, but what good is that if you don’t know what tools to use or how to use them? Make sure you’re familiar will all the tools you’ll need to use to replace your tire so you’ll know what you’re doing when the time comes.

4. Clean Up After Yourself
After you’ve changed your tire, check around your car and gather up any loose parts or trash you may have left behind. If there are parts of your tire laying on the side of your road, collect them and take them with you so you can dispose of them properly.

5. Get a New Tire
Depending on what size spare you have, the distance you’ll be able to drive on it until you can get a new one will range. If you have a full-size spare, they’ll be able to function as a normal tire for a longer period of time. If you have a donut spare, the general rule is that you should drive no further than 70 miles above 50mph. Find the closest dealership or tire store and get a new tire right away.

On Another Note:
Several vehicles today are built with no spare tire at all. This means you will have to call for help. If you have a great service like OnStar, which includes Roadside Assistance, they will come change your tire for you…or tow you to town to get the tire replaced. Something to consider.

If you’re looking for a new tire after a flat, give Hawkins Chevrolet a call today at 507-238-4786 and we’ll help you find the right tires for you. Hawkins Chevrolet is your trusted dealership in Fairmont and the reason why its loyal customers keep coming back. We partner with General Motors to offer the best tire prices in our area. We can even do an alignment check to be sure you don’t have premature wear due to wheel alignment issues.

We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and being an integral part of our community. Jackson, MN Chevrolet customers should view our hours and directions page to get to our Fairmont dealership. We hope to see you soon at our showroom. Hawkins Chevrolet is waiting for you!