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No matter how diligent a driver you are, there may come a time when you get a flat or burst tire on the road. If it’s your first time changing a tire, knowing what not to do can help you stay safe on the road while you perform this service. Here are common mistakes auto shops say motorists make when they attempt to change their tires.

Mistakes to Avoid When Changing a Tire

1. Proceeding Without Warning Signals

Even if you’re an expert at changing tires, it becomes a dangerous activity if you don’t warn approaching drivers of your presence on the side of the road. Always place a reflective warning triangle behind your vehicle to catch the attention of other drivers and prevent accidents. If you don’t have a sign and are on a busy road, consider calling a roadside assistance service to change your tires with no risk to you.

2. Using a Flat Spare

Just as you’d do for your active tires, ensure your spare has the proper air pressure to prevent ending up with a flat when you need to use it. Air pressure can naturally decrease over time, making getting traction on the road difficult, so when you have access to a pump or are at an auto shop, service your spare as well as your other tires.

3. Forgetting to Tighten the Lug Nuts

While auto shoploosening the lug nuts is required to change a tire, drivers frequently forget to tighten them again after placing the spare. This can cause steering problems or even result in the tire coming loose as you’re driving, which can end up in another accident. To stay safe, always double check that you’ve tightened all nuts and bolts after completing a tire change.

 

If you require roadside assistance to fix a flat tire, call Craig's Towing & Repair in Baraboo and La Crosse, WI. With over 20 years of experience, their auto shop technicians are AAA certified, and provide emergency towing and car repair to get you back on the road when you need it the most. Learn more about the services on their website, then call (608) 784-1638 to make an appointment with their La Crosse auto shop or (608) 356-7400 for towing near Baraboo.

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