8001 Minnetonka Blvd.

952.931.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

6407 West Lake Street

952.922.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

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TOOLS USED TO CHANGE A FLAT TIRE

by | Jun 24, 2013 | Auto Repair, General Car Maintenance, Tire Repair

When you get a flat tire, having the correct tools to fix the problem is important. Experiencing a flat tire for the first time can be a dangerous situation. Usually you might experience pulling to one side or another or a loud thumping sound. Make sure you keep both hands on the steering wheel to ensure full control of the situation. Flat tires happen to individuals each day and with a little practice, you can change a tire in no time flat.

GETTING THE SPARE TIRE FOR A FLAT

Spare tires are not always located in the same place from car to car. Often times spare tires are located in the trunk underneath the carpet. However, your spare tire can also be found under the vehicle near the rear wheels or it may also be mounted on the back end of the car, as often seen on some SUVs. No matter where the spare tire is located, it is important to make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and more importantly, make sure you have one. Being without a spare tire calls for a really messy situation.

USING A CAR JACK FOR A FLAT TIRE

Car jacks are an essential maintenance tool that should always be in your vehicle. Manufacturers provide a specific car jack for each model of vehicle they make. However, many times these jacks are not replaced when lost or during the sale from owner to owner. For safety reasons, each car jack should be the appropriate type for the vehicle on which it is being used. If the jack is too small or too big it can cause damage to your vehicle and not offer sturdy enough support. The car jack is used to lift a portion of the vehicle in order for you to change or repair a tire.  Car jacks are an essential part of tire repair, but can also be very dangerous. Always place the car jack on a flat, level surface, never leave the car jack unattended, and never use it to support your vehicle overnight or for long periods of time.

USING A LUG-NUT WRENCH TO CHANGE A TIRE

Lug nuts are circular bolts that are used to hold your tire in its place. Without them, your tire would wiggle and possibly even come off of the car completely, which is very dangerous. Often times, lug nuts are tightened so well that it is difficult to get them off your tire in order to get your tire changed. This is why you should keep a lug nut wrench in your vehicle. This wrench is used to place around the lug nut and loosen the grip in order for you to get the tire off. If your lug nuts are on too tight and you experience trouble getting them off, then trying a different size wrench might work. Without the tools needed to change a flat tire, the job is nearly impossible. Before you set out on a road trip check your trunk for the essentials needed for proper tire repair.