At some point, you’re gonna get a flat tire. It’s just a hazard of driving. At Van Meter Auto Repair in Mantua, NJ, we like to do what we can to keep you and your vehicle ready for anything. Here’s what you should do.

If you’re driving and you get a flat, the first thing to do is get safely out of the way. Don’t try and make it home, just get out of traffic and out of the way - you’ll lose most control of your steering, which is dangerous; not to mention the damage you’ll risk doing to your vehicle.

Without a good tire connecting you to the road, your suspension and steering components will be under a lot of stress. It’s possible to break something or knock something out of whack far enough that major repairs will be needed. Furthermore, you’ll damage the rim, which is going to be expensive to replace and make changing the tire a lot more difficult.

If you opt to change the tire yourself rather than call a tow truck, just remember to use extreme caution. The jack that comes with your vehicle is an emergency tool - never get put any part of your body under the vehicle while it’s supported by the jack. Break the lug nuts free before you do anything else. Next, jack the vehicle up, making sure it stays steady and well balanced the entire time. Next finish taking the lug nuts off, pull the wheel off and put your spare tire on. Tighten the lug nuts as much as you can, let the jack down, and finish tightening them before setting off again. Be sure to have your tire replaced and get the original wheel re-installed as soon as possible - the spare is typically only suitable for emergencies as well.

No matter your repair or maintenance needs, our technicians have you covered. For the best car, truck, and SUV service shop in Mantua, NJ, call or stop by Van Meter Auto Repair today.