If you’ve recently earned your learner’s permit or license, you’ll likely feel excited about getting behind the wheel. As you navigate city streets and highways, it’s important that you know how to handle common issues, like flat automotive tires. Fortunately, you can usually detect them early to prevent potential hazards and the need for roadside assistance. Here’s what to know about flat tires and spares.

Warning Signs & Causes of Flats

Vibrations

Though you may feel mild vibrations while driving, more noticeable rumbling and shaking indicate a tire is out of alignment. This causes the tire to make contact with the road at an incorrect angle, which wears the rubber faster and leads to flats. Having the tires aligned by a mechanic every two to three years reduces this risk.

Low Tread

Tread patterns are the grooves and raised patches on automotive tires that help them grip the roads securely. When the tread wears down below the minimum depth of 2/32”, the rubber may crack or tear, causing flats.

Check the tread by inserting an upside-down penny into one of the grooves. If most or all of Lincoln’s head is visible, the tread depth is too low, and it’s time to replace the tire.

Why You Should Replace the Spare Soon

Increased Safety

If you get a flat, install the spare located in the trunk’s flooring or the back hatch. However, you can only go a maximum of 50 mph since the spare is lighter, spins faster, and wears quicker than a normal tire. Additionally, don’t drive more than 50 miles on a spare, as it puts stress on the transmission system.

Fewer Handling Issues

Spare tires are compact and lightweight, which compromises traction and may cause skidding or sliding on the roads. Additionally, the brakes may take longer to apply enough pressure on the spare to stop the vehicle. Replacing the spare with a full-size tire will allow you to brake without difficulty and cruise without losing control.

When you need to replace an automotive tire, allow the mechanics at Alaskan Auto Center to assist you. They offer tire rotations and alignments, as well as new set installations to drivers throughout Anchorage. Call (907) 522-7035 to ask about their current inventory, or visit them online to learn more about the life span of tires and when to schedule rotations.