A flat tire can happen without much warning. You may notice your vehicle pulling to one side, hear an unusual sound, or suddenly realize one tire has lost pressure.
The most important thing is not how quickly you change the tire. It is making sure you handle the situation safely.
Get Somewhere Safe
Turn on your hazard lights and slow down carefully.
Move away from active traffic when there is a safe place to do so. If you are on a busy freeway or in another dangerous location, changing the tire yourself may not be the best option.
Avoid standing close to moving traffic while inspecting the vehicle.
Check the Tire
Once you are in a safe location, look at the affected tire.
Is it completely flat or simply low on air? Can you see a puncture, damaged sidewall, or other obvious problem?
The answer can help determine whether the tire may eventually be repaired or whether replacement is more likely.
Should You Change the Tire Yourself?
If your vehicle has a usable spare tire, you have the correct equipment, and you are confident changing the tire safely, you may be able to install the spare.
Always follow the instructions in your vehicle owner's manual, including the correct jack points and wheel-changing procedures.
A temporary spare is meant to get you to a location where the damaged tire can be properly inspected. Follow the speed and distance restrictions provided by your vehicle or tire manufacturer.
When Should You Call for Roadside Help?
Calling for assistance is often the better decision when:
- You are in a dangerous location
- You are uncomfortable changing the tire yourself
- You do not have the correct tools
- Your spare tire is missing or unusable
- The vehicle appears to have additional damage
- You need the vehicle transported to a repair facility
Prioritize safety instead of attempting a tire change next to fast-moving traffic.
What Causes Flat Tires?
Common causes include punctures from road debris, pothole or curb impacts, worn tires, pressure problems, and damage to the tire's sidewall.
Regularly checking tire pressure and condition can help you spot some problems before they turn into roadside emergencies.
Need Roadside Help in Portland?
If changing the tire is unsafe or simply not something you want to handle yourself, Crown Towing can help you get off the road and on your way.
Call Crown Towing & Collision Repair at 503.705.7000 for roadside assistance.
