How to Repair Tires When You Have a Flat

Tires are very important to the proper function of your vehicle. The problem is that even great tires can go flat on occasion. Making sure that you are getting everything that you need to repair your tires will help in making sure that you are able to keep driving and doing what you want to do with your vehicle. The majority of the problems you will run into in your vehicle have to do with a slow leak in the valve, though there are problems which can occur when you have a nail in the tire or if you have scratched the sidewall of the tire. Knowing why you have the flat tire will help you to decide what you should do about the problem.

Getting Your Tires Patched

It is only possible to patch holes which have occurred in the tread of the tire. If the hole which is causing the flat is in the sidewall of the tire, you will have to get a completely new tire for your vehicle. Make sure that if you do have to get new tires that you are getting four new tires rather than just replacing one tire. If you can patch the hole because it is in the tread, you will need to take it to a professional. They will be able to prepare the tire for being patched. This is done using a tool to make the hole more regular and to get rid of any extra fibers in the hole. They will then put use a sealant to add to the hole. Once the seal dries, the plug will remain in place as you are driving.

Using Temporary Tires

All cars come with at least a temporary tire you can use on your vehicle when you have a flat. Simply use your car jack to lift up the vehicle high enough you will be able to remove the flat tires. You will then need to make sure that you are using the tire iron so you will be able to remove the lug nuts from their location on the tire. It can be easier to remove one or two before you lift up the car. This will help to keep the tire motionless while you are trying to loosen the bolts. After the tire has been removed completely, install the temporary tire in place. Only use this tire to get a new tire for your vehicle and do not exceed 35-55 mph depending on the model of tire.

Instant Fixes for Tires

There are specially formulated canisters which can be used to instantly fix a flat whenever you have one. These are handy to keep in the car because you will be able to use them anywhere you are. Simply connect the nozzle to the tire gauge and push it into place. A specially formulated adhesive and compressed air will fill the tire at least part of the way. Drive on the tire until you can get to a location to fill the tires the rest of the way. Immediately go out and buy a new tire because this is intended to be a temporary solution for a puncture in the tread.