Driving on a flat tire is possible, but not for long, and it isn't recommended. Driving on a flat tire gives you minimal control over your vehicle, which may cause damage or lead to an accident. So, you've got a flat tire on a busy road.
How Long Does It Take to Change a Flat
A quick change is ideal because it helps you reach your destination on time and avoid possible accidents if such a process occurs in the middle of a busy highway. Changing a flat tire may take 15 to 30 minutes or more, depending on whether you've got the right tools, skills, and assistance.
What Tools Do You Need
You should have the following items for a fast tire change;
- An inflated spare tire
- Your vehicle's manual
- A lug wrench
- Jack
- Reflective triangle
If you have to do it in the rain or at night, wedges, gloves, a mat, a flashlight, and a rain poncho are required.
Now that you know what's needed, let's look at the step-by-step process you should follow for a quick flat tire change.
How to Do a Fast Flat Tire Change
Don't stop your vehicle abruptly when you have a flat tire. You should slow down, find a safe location, and stop your vehicle's engine to inspect the tire. Ideally, choose level ground with straight stretches of road because it's easy and safe to change a tire on such ground. After that, consult your car's manual and follow these steps:
- Apply the parking brakes and switch on the hazard lights
- Put wheel wedges behind or in front of the other tires
- Position the reflective triangles behind and in front of your vehicle.
- Remove the wheel cover or hubcap.
- Loosen the nuts
- Place a jack under your vehicle and raise it
- Unscrew the nuts and remove the flat tire
- Place the spare tire on the lug bolts and tighten the nuts
- Lower your car by the jack and tighten the nuts firmly.
- Lower the car and put the hubcap in place
- Stow your tools and take the flat tire to your technician
Are you in need of tire repair services? If so, visit GTT Commercial Tires today for the best tire repair services.