If you drive a fleet or commercial vehicle, you log a lot of hours on the road. Inevitably, a flat tire is going to happen - it’s just a matter of knowing how to handle it when it does. Here’s what you need to remember, from Westerville Automotive in Westerville, OH.
First thing’s first; get off the road and out of the way of traffic. Your steering will be severely compromised, and you don’t want to tear up your vehicle. Make sure you pull off onto the flat, solid ground, where other drivers can see you and you can effectively deal with the situation.
Depending on the size of your truck, you may be confined to calling a tow truck or tire service to get back on the road. If you’re in a manageable vehicle, you may opt to install the spare yourself.
Remember - a jack is an emergency tool, and without having the vehicle supported on jack stands, never put any part of your body under the vehicle (including in the wheel well.) Break the lug nuts loose with your tire iron. Next, carefully jack the vehicle up, paying close attention to the jack to ensure it doesn’t move or fall. Once your sure the vehicle is well supported, finish taking the lug nuts off, slide the wheel under the truck to catch it in case it falls, then install the spare in reverse order. Be sure to tighten the lug nuts in a cross pattern after you have the wheel back on the ground. You’re ready to go! Just make sure you get the original wheel reinstalled as soon as possible.
No matter your repair or maintenance needs, we’ve got you covered. For the best fleet and commercial service shop in Westerville, OH, call or stop by Westerville Automotive today.
