A tire can go flat at any time, on or off the road. Knowing what to do and who to call for roadside assistance in the event of one can save you time, money, and stress. It can also keep you safe and prevent other accidents. Learn more about flat tires and how to handle them below. 

Common Causes of Flat Tires

If your car was parked when you discovered the flat, it could mean that you have a faulty valve stem. When properly functioning, it allows air to get into and stay in your tire. But they can corrode or wear over time, letting air escape.

It could also indicate that your tire has a slow leak. Your tire may be slowly letting out air through a small puncture caused by a sharp object, like a nail or broken glass. It’s typically not noticeable until the tire is already flat. 

On the other hand, you’ll notice a blowout right away. It occurs when you drive over an obstruction—like a bump, pothole, or rock—on the road at a fast enough speed. Your car might shake or vibrate, and you may hear a loud popping or banging sound when your tire blows out.

What to Do

If you’re parked, don’t attempt to drive it to an auto repair shop, even if it’s close by. Doing so can result in aesthetic or structural damage to the wheel.

If your problem is a slow leak or a faulty valve stem, your mechanic can salvage the tire and save you the expense of buying a new one. But driving on it while it’s flat can cause it to shred and require replacement. Instead, call a towing company for help. 

Similarly, if you experience a blowout on the road, you should pull over where it’s safe and turn on your hazard lights to alert others of your presence. Call for roadside assistance and have them tow your car to a mechanic or put on a spare for you if possible. 

If you experience a flat tire in Groton, CT, contact Groton Auto Body & Sales for prompt roadside assistance. This auto repair shop and its team of ASE-certified technicians provide a wide array of services, including car repairs, exterior auto bodywork, towing, and tire changes. To learn more about their offerings, call (860) 449-9120 or visit them online.