Your vehicle is important and although tires are replaceable, axles and brakes can be affected by ruined tired and lead to a lot more expensive jobs or tow truck fees. In the most severe cases, ignoring a tire that needs repair can lead to an accident. In the event of the worst possible scenario, you should know what to do when a tire goes out.
What to do in the Event of Tire Damage
There are many causes that can lead to the need for tire repair. In the event of an unexpected flat or tire damage, unless you carry patch supplies or a jack with you, you may need to enlist the help of roadside assistance. In Melbourne, one of the best companies to speak to is Casey Towing Transport Melbourne. They offer a towing service that can get you out of a rough spot in a jiffy.
If you have the faculties to patch or replace the tire yourself, be sure to follow safety procedures and move your car out of the road to lessen risk. If you’re using patch supplies to fix a flat, running soapy water over the tire surface can help identify the hole. If you are using a jack stand to replace the tire, make sure you don’t lose any nuts or bolts since without them the tire will fling itself off again.
How to Change a Tire
If you have the right tools, you may be able to get yourself on the road again quick. You will need:
- Lug wrench
- Spare tire, that is fully inflated
- Jack
- Vehicle manual
- Wheel wedges
- Gloves
- 2×6 cut of wood to help secure the jack
After you’ve moved your car to the wayside, turn it off and apply your parking brake; then you can follow these steps:
Step 1
Apply the wheel wedges behind or in front of your tires.
Step 2
Remove the wheel cover or hub cap.
Step 3
Loosen all the lug nuts by turning them counterclockwise. You may need to use incredible force here; we recommend throwing your body weight into it. Do not however, remove the lug nuts. That’s later.
Step 4
Jack up the vehicle. You will need to place it beneath the frame, alongside the affected tire. You’ll want to lift the car about 6 inches off the ground.
Step 5
Unscrew all the lug nuts and remove the tire now.
Step 6
Place the spare on the lug bolts and push until it goes through. Now place all the lug nuts back and tighten them by hand.
Step 7
Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts with the wrench. Then you can replace the wheel cover and be on your way.
Do I need a Tire Replacement or just Flat Tire Repair?
Sometimes tire damage falls in the grey area of not too good, but not too bad. This can leave some confusion on whether you need a repair or replacement. This decision is ultimately up to the type of tire you are using and if you purchased a warranty. There are certain types of tires that are easier to repair than others, so you may want to call your go-to mechanic to double check. Sometimes it can be easier to patch, but you may be at risk of tire failure or a blowout. Be sure to assess your risk before proceeding.
How Often do I Need to Replace Tires?
Even if you have not run over glass or sharp objects, your tires can still blowout if they are too old. Generally, they should be replaced every 6 years. Tires that are too worn down don’t even stand a chance against potholes. The weather in Melbourne is always an accident waiting to happen. To avoid the need for flat tire repair, look out for the signs of old age or keep time on your tires. Side bulging indicates that the tires need to be replaced immediately.
What if I Can’t Change the Tire?
If you are stranded, in an accident, or simply woke up to a flat tire, you’re going to need to get that fixed before you can get on with your day. Sometimes you may not have the right tools to get the job done, but Casey Towing Transport in Melbourne has you covered. They’re a fully licensed company that provides roadside assistance and has a tow truck fleet ready to go. They can even assist with lockouts.
Now Casey Towing Transport is available in Carrum Downs Victoria 3201.
Contact Us
Casey Towing Transport
39 Majestic Blvd
Cranbourne VIC 3977
0435 555 400
www.caseytowingtransport.com.au
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