So you’re driving down I-64 enjoying the drive with your radio on and thinking about what you’re going to be eating for supper. You’ve had a long day but it’s almost over now. Just another 15 minutes of driving and you’ll be home where you kick off your shoes, sit back in your recliner and watch your favorite shows on Netflix. It’s relaxing just thinking about it….woah, what’s that noise?
thump, thump, thump,
uh-oh, that can’t be good. You pull over on the shoulder, get out of your car and your fear comes to fruition. Yep, it’s a flat.
After moving all your junk out of the way in the trunk, you discover the jacks there, but no tire. Now what?!
It’s during these trying times when you may want to considered calling for help in the form of a roadside assistance company like Reliable Guys Towing. However, wouldn’t it be great if we could some avoid getting a flat altogether? While a flat can happen anywhere and anyplace, even with the very best of tires, we’ve put together some proactive steps you can take to reduce the chances of an unexpected blowout.
Check Your Tire Pressure
Improper air pressure is likely the leading cause of premature wear. Check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s informational tag on the door post or door edge. A common misconception is that the pressure that is on the side of the tire is the correct pressure. It is not.
It is the maximum recommended pressure for that particular tire. Your car will have a specific pressure based on weight, wheelbase, and other factors.
Have your tires Rotated Regularly
Tire rotation is another big one that many people ignore until it’s too late. It’s a good rule of thumb to have your tires rotated at least every other oil change. However, with modern vehicles and synthetic oils that have longer intervals between changes, it’s a good idea to keep up with rotation schedule in your owner’s manual.
Generally, tires should be rotated around the 5,000-mile mark.
Keep Track of Tread Depth
You can buy a tread depth tool at most auto parts retailers. As a general rule of thumb, 1/16th of an inch is the minimum tread depth for your tires. When your tires get below a minimum tread depth they can become very dangerous, especially on wet roads. So make this a priority.
Uneven Wear
Just because the tread on the outer section of your tires is within specs doesn’t always mean the entire tire is the same. Misalignment or worn chassis parts such as ball joints and tie rod ends will cause your tires to wear unevenly. So when you inspect your tires, make sure you check the innermost part of the tire.
NOTE: Bald tires can significantly increase the chances of hydroplaning during a rainstorm, or with standing water. Check out our article on What to do When Your Car Hydroplanes.
Mobile Flat Tire Repair – St Louis’ favorite affordable, PROMPT tire service
In the St. Louis metro area and need emergency roadside assistance? Why not give Reliable Guys Towing a call. We offer mobile tire repair on a 24-7 basis and have over 20 years experience with roadside assistance services exclusively in our proud Gateway City.
Fully insured, licensed and bonded in the states of Missouri and Illinois, we pride ourselves in clear communication to ensure that services, prices and quality far surpass our competition. We know our talented technicians are the best in the business, and we go that extra mile in resolving our clients issue so that they feel comfortable and assured for their Roadside Assistance needs.
Whether you need a tow, a jump start, or a long distance tow, call at (314) 325-1016 and one of our knowledgeable towing service reps will help assist getting a tow truck to you so we can quickly get you on your way. We offer…