Finding a nail in your car’s tire is an unwelcome surprise. Whether you discover it while at work, on a road trip, or in your own driveway, it’s important to know how to handle the issue, so you can get your car to a mechanic safely. Here are a few steps you should follow when you find a nail in your tire. 

What to Do When You Have a Nail in Your Tire

1. Check Your Tire Pressure

Before you do anything else, use a tire pressure gauge to check your air. Having a nail in your tire doesn’t automatically mean that it’s flat, so you need to determine if you can use it to drive to your mechanic. If the air pressure is adequate, it should be fine to give your tires a quick fill and head over to an auto care center. However, if the pressure is significantly lower than it should be, put on your spare tire before heading out.

2. Have the Nail Removed by a Mechanic

Resist the urge to remove the nail yourself; a professional mechanic should always take care of this problem. Even if your tire is not losing air, snow, water, and other moisture can seep inside and cause the nail to rust if it’s not properly removed, which could eventually lead to a blowout.

3. Patch or Replace the Tire

Your mechanic can probably remove the nail and repair the hole using a plug and an interior patch. However, if the size of the puncture is large—typically one-quarter inch in diameter or more—this technique won’t be sufficient, and you’ll need to have your tire replaced. While it may seem like a hassle, getting a new tire is safer and more cost-efficient in the long run, as it reduces your risk of getting a flat or having an accident.

If you discover a nail in your vehicle’s tire, take it to Professional Automotive in Anchorage, AK. For more than 25 years, these experienced mechanics have been providing friendly and trustworthy auto care services, including suspension and brake repairs, oil changes, and tire replacements. Visit them online to see all of the services they offer, and call (907) 562-2471 to schedule an appointment today.