There are many ways you can get a flat tire. Sometimes the tire goes flat almost instantly and other times it’s slow and barely noticed for several days or more. Depending on the type of issue that’s leading to a flat tire, your course of action will be different. When possible and safe, a mechanic can perform tire repair, otherwise you’ll need to replace your tire.
Low Tire Pressure
Low tire pressure can happen due to a change in the outside temperature, but that’s not a common reason in Florida. More often either there’s a hole in your tire or someone has let the air out. If you simply have low tire pressure you can likely head to a gas station or mechanic and get it re-inflated. If the low tire pressure happens again, you probably have a small hole and that will require a trip to a mechanic for tire repair.
Flat Tire
A flat tire is a different story. If the car is already parked, you shouldn’t drive on it. Driving on a flat tire can damage your tire rim. Worse, you won’t have good control of your vehicle and could end up in an accident. Some cars today no longer have spare tires. If your car doesn’t, you’ll want to call and have your car towed to a mechanic who can replace or repair your tire depending on the type of damage.
If you do have a spare, it’s either a full size or what’s commonly referred to as a donut. If you have a donut, know that its not intended to replace your tire. Don’t go over 50mph on it and don’t drive more than you have to. Usually about 70 miles is the maximum recommended distance. Just because you have a flat tire doesn’t mean tire repair is impossible.
New Tires
If you end up with a flat due to an aging tire or low tread, you probably need two or four new tires. An honest mechanic will let you know if the issue is from a road hazard and the rest of your tires are safe or if you should consider replacing all your tires.
Oldsmar Automotive will honestly evaluate by inspecting it for nails or other items that may be causing the flat. If it would be safe to do so, we will remove the item and repair the tire. If it’s not safe, we’ll help you select a new tire or tires for your car. Come by 3166 Tampa Road in Oldsmar or have your car towed to our shop and we’ll take care of you. Questions about the safety to drive your vehicle, call us at (727) 784-3501.
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